Persistence and adherence to tepotinib in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer: a real-world evidence study including dose reductions

AIM: This study evaluated the real-world persistence, adherence, treatment discontinuation, and dose reduction of tepotinib in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS: This exploratory, retrospective study used McKesson's Biologics Specialty Pharmacy shipment data (10 February 2021-07 April 2025). Adults ≥50 years with NSCLC receiving tepotinib were included. Persistence was assessed as days supplied and covered; adherence as proportion of days covered (PDC), unadjusted and adjusted for gaps >42 days. Dose modifications, discontinuations, and time to last discontinuation were evaluated. Outcomes were assessed in the full cohort and a dose reduction subgroup. RESULTS: Full cohort included 436 patients (median age: 71 years; follow-up: 6.4 months). Median (range) days supplied and covered were 120 (15-1,950) days and 119 (15-1,388) days, respectively. Mean unadjusted PDC was 72.9% and adjusted PDC was 94.9%. Dose reduction was observed in 64 (14.7%) patients. Among these, median days supplied and covered since dose reduction were 120 (30-870) days and 120 (30-857) days, respectively. Mean unadjusted PDC was 78.1% and adjusted PDC was 92.7%. CONCLUSION: Tepotinib therapy showed consistent real-world persistence and adherence among patients with metastatic NSCLC. Dose reductions supported continuity of tepotinib therapy.