Teva begins third phase III trial for new MS drug

Teva has commenced a new phase III clinical trial of laquinimod to demonstrate its safety and efficacy in the treatment of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS).

The Concerto trial is being carried out in association with Active Biotech and is the third phase III placebo-controlled study evaluating this once-daily oral therapy.

Around 1,800 patients will be enrolled in the trial across more than 300 sites globally, with the primary endpoint of the study being improvement in terms of time to confirmed disability progression.

It will also examine secondary factors such as percentage change in brain volume and other clinical and MRI markers of disease activity.

Dr Michael Hayden, president of global research and development and chief scientific officer at Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, said: "The Concerto study demonstrates our commitment to collaborating with MS communities worldwide to further develop laquinimod and address unmet patient needs."

Last month, the company commenced enrolment for a phase IV study assessing the benefits of Azilect, its approved therapy for Parkinson's disease patients.