Lilly and Kowa report positive data from HIV drug trial

Lilly and Kowa Pharmaceuticals have revealed new clinical trial data that demonstrates the benefits their drug Livalo can provide for HIV-infected adults with high cholesterol, a condition known as dyslipidaemia.

Data from a phase IV trial of the clinically-proven therapy showed that Livalo can help to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol among dyslipidaemia sufferers more effectively than pravastatin.

The study met its primary efficacy endpoint, thus demonstrating the advantages this therapy can provide in the treatment of a condition that often leaves HIV patients at a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease.

As of January 2013, Livalo has been launched in more than 30 countries worldwide.

Dr Craig Sponseller, vice-president of medical affairs at Kowa Pharmaceuticals, said: "We are pleased that the study objective was met … and we look forward to further analysis of this data."

Earlier this week, Lilly also announced that it will be providing an update on the progress of its diabetes therapy pipeline in June 2013, coinciding with the annual American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions.