Qin S, Li Q, Gu S, et al. - Researchers conducted a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial (AHELP) in China, to assess the efficacy as well as the safety of apatinib among patients with pretreated advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Participants were aged ≥18 years, had advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, and were previously refractory or intolerant to at least one line of systemic chemotherapy or targeted therapy. They were randomized (2:1) to receive apatinib 750 mg or placebo orally once daily in 28-day treatment cycles. Findings revealed that significantly improved overall survival was conferred by apatinib, vs placebo, in patients with pretreated advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. In addition, apatinib displayed a manageable safety profile in these patients.