Merck's Pembrolizumab Receives Orphan Drug Designation for Rare Prostate Cancer

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted orphan drug status to Merck's pembrolizumab for neuroendocrine prostate cancer. This designation aims to incentivize the development of treatments for rare diseases affecting a small population. If approved, the drug would receive seven years of market exclusivity for this specific indication, encouraging further research.