Sanofi and Genzyme report long-term efficacy data for MS drug Lemtrada

Sanofi and Genzyme have announced new study results demonstrating the long-term benefits of their multiple sclerosis (MS) drug Lemtrada.

New magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from pivotal phase III trials has shown that the drug is effective in slowing brain atrophy and MRI lesion activity for at least four years in cases of relapsing remitting MS.

MRI effects observed in the two-year trials were successfully maintained through two additional years. After the initial two courses of treatment in the pivotal studies, which were given at month zero and at month 12, approximately 70 percent of patients did not require additional Lemtrada treatment during the following three years.

Meanwhile, the adverse event profile of Lemtrada after four years was consistent with that observed during the pivotal studies.

David Meeker, Genzyme's president and chief executive officer, said: "These results are encouraging, as they provide further evidence of Lemtrada's potential to change the treatment approach for people living with relapsing forms of MS."

The companies first received European regulatory approval for Lemtrada back in 2013.