Vitrakvi: Oncology Precision Medicine Launch

Client & task

Bayer Pharmaceuticals: Vitrakvi

During the 2018 launch of Vitrakvi (larotrectinib), Bayer faced a unique challenge in marketing the first tumor-agnostic precision medicine that specifically targeted NTRK gene fusions, regardless of cancer type. The critical task was to educate oncologists about genetic testing and help them identify suitable patients across multiple tumor types, while simultaneously building awareness among diverse specialists who might encounter patients with NTRK fusion cancers. This innovative drug required an equally innovative marketing approach that would bridge the gap between genetic testing, oncology practices, and patient identification.

The Results

NTRK Gene Testing Fueled by DOLs Led to Significant New Diagnoses and Treatment

The campaign leveraged digital opinion leaders (DOLs) from various oncology subspecialties who created content, hosted virtual tumor boards, and led online education about NTRK fusion testing and treatment. Bayer paired this with a comprehensive genetic testing program and partnerships with diagnostic companies, while launching digital tools like interactive decision trees to help physicians identify potential candidates. The results showed increased rates of genetic testing, improved patient identification, and growing adoption among oncologists. The DOL program proved particularly effective, with high engagement rates in digital content and increased physician confidence in identifying potential Vitrakvi candidates. This campaign demonstrated how combining strategic DOL engagement with practical diagnostic support could successfully launch a highly targeted precision medicine.

 
$60m
Launch sales
90+
Patients
Diagnosed
100%
Conversion to Brand

Vitrakvi is truly a special product. Identifying the right patient is like finding a needle in a haystack. The precision medicine treatment is highly efficacious and safe for patients with a NTRK Gene Fusion mutation. The strategy required both mass awareness with Oncologists to begin broad panel testing, and education on the clinical profile of Vitrakvi. 

-Dr. Kesha Chauhan, MD
CEO of Digital Opinion Leader

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