Novartis mid-stage clinical trials show psoriasis improvement
Hannah Blake
pharmaphorum
Swiss pharmaceutical company Novartis has announced that a mid-stage clinical trial of a new treatment, AIN457 (secukinumab) helped alleviate the symptoms for patients suffering from plaque psoriasis.
Phase 2 data showed that AIN457 may significantly improve moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis on the hands, feet and nails when used every week for the first month of treatment, compared to placebo. Additional analysis on patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis also showed that AIN457 may successfully improve quality of life by week 12 in the study.
"These new AIN457 data are particularly welcome since they demonstrate significant improvement in the signs and symptoms of patients, even when difficult-to-treat areas are involved. Many patients with hand, foot or nail psoriasis are restricted in their daily life and work because they may not be able to walk or use their hands, negatively impacting their quality of life."
Prof. Kristian Reich, one of the study investigators and Professor of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology in Hamburg, Germany.
Approximately 2% of people suffer from plaque psoriasis, which causes itching, scaling and pain. Over 3,000 patients worldwide are involved in core pivotal trials for AIN457, which are currently on track, indicating a high interest from both medical and patient communities.
Phase 3 data is expected in 2013, which will be followed by regulatory submissions.
"These encouraging results show that through its novel mode of action, AIN457 may significantly increase treatment success and improve the quality of life of patients suffering from moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. We look forward to receiving the results of the larger-scale and longer-term Phase III studies, which are expected in 2013."
John Hohneker, Head of Development for Integrated Hospital Care for the Pharmaceuticals Division of Novartis.
Related news:
Novartis Announces AIN457 Phase II Data - Quick Facts (RTT News)
Novartis says psoriasis drug trial results positive (Reuters)
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