Norvartis’ arthritis drug test results “exciting”

Novartis has announced Phase III data on its investigational biologic canakinumab has shown positive effects in arthritis patients.

The company ? which is known for over-the-counter pharmacy products such as Nicotinell, Ex-Lax and Bufferin ? said tests on its biologic ACZ885 revealed “rapid and long-lasting remission” in sufferers of a group of rare forms of arthritis following one dose.

Furthermore, treatment was only required very two months to maintain the response, Novartis said.

The tests showed ACZ885 “demonstrated potential to rapidly control” a form of autoinflammatory disease called Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, which is the most severe form in children, while the company is currently undertaking studies in the drug’s use in rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Philip Hawkins of the National Amyloidosis Centre in London said the results “are exciting for patients and for the medical community” and the drug offers an “important and much-needed development”.

Orphan drug status for ACZ885 has been granted in the European Union and the US, with filing on track for both regions, Novartis has said.