FDA Approves Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Pembrolizumab for Resectable Locally Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

On June 12, the FDA approved pembrolizumab for adults with resectable locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 as determined by an FDA-approved test, as a single agent as neoadjuvant treatment, continued as adjuvant treatment in combination with radiotherapy with or without cisplatin after surgery, and then as a single agent. 

For more information, read the FDA announcement and the Merck press release.

Posted on 6/17/2025