Case Study

Minimizing Drug Waste in Oncology Trials: How Myonex Helped a Pharma Sponsor Recover Value from Unused Keytruda^® Stock

Challenge

Recruitment in clinical trials often progresses more slowly than initially planned, and this Phase III global oncology study was no exception.

Myonex^® supported the mid-sized pharmaceutical sponsor by sourcing and supplying Keytruda (pembrolizumab), a costly and temperature-sensitive immunotherapy, and other standard-of-care products needed for the trial.

To mitigate risk, only small initial volumes were sourced, with plans to resupply once enrollment increased. However, after a full year, patient recruitment remained below enrollment predictions. As a result, the shelf-life of the Keytruda stock became critically short. Without intervention, this would have led to significant drug waste and related costs.

The Myonex Solution

Myonex implemented a targeted strategy to minimize waste and related financial loss while addressing the ethical and logistical challenges associated with drug destruction.

Strategic Resale to Another Trial

Leveraging its broad client base and real-time insight into global study needs, Myonex identified another sponsor requiring immediate access to Keytruda for an active trial.

Part of the stock, still within acceptable shelf-life, was resold to this sponsor. This ensured that the drug was used for patient care rather than wasted. At the same time, the purchasing sponsor gained immediate access to this high demand therapy and benefited from a lower price.

Results

Zero Waste: Most stock nearing expiry was reused in another clinical trial, eliminating the need for destruction.

Cost Recovery: While not reimbursed in full, the selling sponsor regained significant value from unused drug.

Support Across Studies: The purchasing sponsor secured immediate access to this critical therapy, avoided resupply delays, and reduced costs by leveraging short shelf-life supply.

Sustainable Impact: Economically, ecologically, and ethically aligned – with medicines serving patients instead of being destroyed.

Conclusion

Clinical trial patient recruitment rarely goes according to plan. By anticipating risks, leveraging strong global networks and enabling fast, flexible and reliable sourcing strategies, Myonex turned a high-risk inventory situation into a sustainable outcome while creating a win-win for both trial sponsors.