GSK says Bosatria trials are promising

The experimental monoclonal antibody Bosatria (epolizumab) has proved to be promising in testing, according to GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

Pharma Times reports that the pharmaceutical company has been encouraged by trials assessing the drug’s use as a treatment for hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES).

Some 47 per cent of patients using Bosatria could cut down steroid use as the assessment progressed, with five per cent of the control group also reporting a reduced intake.

The news source commented that this is good news as the only other HES treatment involves corticosteroids including the off-label prednisone.

Bosatria currently has orphan status in the US and Europe, although GSK is looking to receive approval for the drug at some point during 2008.

Meanwhile, GSK Europe medical director Dr Alastair Benbow recently commented that the firm is “committed” to ensuring the safe use of its drugs following a Medical and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency investigation into the anti-depressant Seroxat.