Merck and Eisai Announce Positive Phase 3 Trial Results for WELIREG and LENVIMA

The combination therapy reduced the risk of disease progression or death by 30% in patients.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Merck & Co. and Eisai have announced the first presentation of results from the Phase 3 LITESPARK-011 trial evaluating the dual oral regimen of WELIREG (belzutifan) plus LENVIMA (lenvatinib). The trial found that the combination therapy reduced the risk of disease progression or death by 30% compared to the control group.

Why it matters

This is an important development in the treatment of certain cancers, as the combination of WELIREG and LENVIMA could provide a new, more effective therapy option for patients. The positive trial results are a significant milestone for Merck and Eisai's collaboration on these cancer drugs.

The details

The Phase 3 LITESPARK-011 trial evaluated the dual oral regimen of WELIREG (belzutifan) plus LENVIMA (lenvatinib) compared to a control group. The trial found that the combination therapy reduced the risk of disease progression or death by 30% versus the control group.

  • The results were first presented on March 2, 2026.

The players

Merck & Co., Inc.

A global healthcare company that develops and provides innovative medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products.

Eisai

A Japanese pharmaceutical company that develops and markets products globally, with a focus on oncology and neurology.

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The takeaway

The positive results from the Phase 3 trial of the WELIREG and LENVIMA combination therapy represent an important advancement in cancer treatment, potentially providing patients with a new, more effective option to combat disease progression.