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Vizimpro (Dacomitinib)

Pfizer Inc. · FDA-approved approved Small molecule Verified Quality 75/100

Irreversible pan-HER kinase inhibitor targeting EGFR, HER2, HER4, and EGFR-activating mutations.

Vizimpro (dacomitinib) is an irreversible pan-HER inhibitor approved by the FDA for first-line treatment of metastatic NSCLC harboring EGFR-activating mutations (exon 19 deletion or L858R). As a pan-HER inhibitor, it provides broader kinase coverage than first-generation EGFR TKIs, potentially reducing resistance mechanisms. The drug demonstrates clinical efficacy in both subcutaneous and intracranial tumor models. Dacomitinib targets EGFR/HER1, HER2, and HER4, with additional activity against DDR1, EPHA6, LCK, DDR2, and MNK1 at therapeutic concentrations. Its irreversible binding mechanism and multi-target profile position it as a best-in-class option for EGFR-mutant NSCLC.

At a glance

Generic nameDacomitinib
SponsorPfizer Inc.
Drug classTyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI); Pan-HER inhibitor
TargetCyclin-G-associated kinase, Receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 2, Receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 3
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Dacomitinib is an irreversible inhibitor of the human EGFR family kinases, including EGFR/HER1, HER2, and HER4. It specifically targets tumors driven by EGFR-activating mutations, particularly exon 19 deletions and the exon 21 L858R substitution mutation. The irreversible binding mechanism covalently modifies the ATP-binding pocket, providing sustained kinase inhibition and potentially overcoming resistance mechanisms that develop with reversible inhibitors. Beyond the HER family, dacomitinib exhibits off-target activity against DDR1, EPHA6, LCK, DDR2, and MNK1 at clinically relevant concentrations. This broader kinase inhibition profile may contribute to its clinical efficacy and potentially reduce the emergence of bypass pathway resistance. The pan-HER approach addresses the limitation of first-generation EGFR TKIs, which are susceptible to HER2-mediated resistance. Preclinical studies demonstrate dose-dependent inhibition of EGFR and HER2 autophosphorylation with corresponding tumor growth suppression in xenograft models. Notably, dacomitinib shows antitumor activity in intracranial xenografts driven by EGFR amplifications, suggesting adequate CNS penetration—a clinically relevant advantage for patients with brain metastases.

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Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results
FDA Orange BookPatents + exclusivity

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