Novartis reports positive long-term Gilenya data

Novartis has reported positive data from a long-term extension study of Gilenya, its oral therapy for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Results from an extension to the phase III head-to-head Transforms study – which compared to the drug to another leading therapy – have shown that Gilenya is able to deliver benefits with up to four-and-a-half years of continuous treatment.

Sustained reduction in relapses and rate of brain volume loss in patients were observed among the Gilenya usage group, while a consistent safety profile was also demonstrated.

As of February 2012, it is estimated that approximately 36,000 patients have been treated using this drug in clinical trials and the post-marketing setting.

Tim Wright, global head of development at Novartis Pharma, said: "This data further reinforces our confidence in Gilenya's long-term effectiveness and safety profile."

Earlier this month, the company published positive clinical data for the investigational compound ACZ885, demonstrating its efficacy against systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis.