New Reference: Nivolumab for Advanced Gastric/Esophageal AdenoCa

Nivolumab combined with chemotherapy continues to show superior overall survival and progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy alone at 5 years in advanced gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma. The treatment showed a higher objective response rate, and the safety profile was consistent with no new safety concerns reported.

  • Study

    Randomized, open-label, phase 3 study [CheckMate 649]
    Previously untreated, non-HER2+, unresectable or metastatic gastric, GE-junction, esophageal adenocarcinoma
    Nivolumab+chemotherapy (n=789) vs chemotherapy (n=792)



  • Efficacy

    ORR: 58% vs 46% (nivolumab vs. placebo)
    mOS in all pts: 13.7 mos vs 11.6 mos (HR 0.79 [0.71-0.88])
    mPFS in all pts: 7.8 mos vs 6.9 mos (HR 0.79 [0.71-0.89])
    mOS in PD-L1 CPS >10%: 15 mos vs. 10.9 mos (HR 0.68 [0.58-0.79])



  • Safety

    Grade >=3 AE: 60% vs 45%
    Treatment discontinuation: 42% vs 26%


  • Ann Oncol. Published online 2026 Feb 6

    Janjigian YY, Shitara K, Ajani JA Nivolumab plus chemotherapy as first-line treatment for advanced gastric, gastroesophageal junction, and esophageal adenocarcinoma: 5-year follow-up results from CheckMate 649

    http://doi.org/10.1016/j.annonc.2026.02.003

    Reviewed by Ulas D. Bayraktar, MD on Feb 15, 2026

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