GlaxoSmithKline reports positive data for subcutaneous lupus therapy

GlaxoSmithKline has announced new clinical trial data demonstrating the efficacy of Benlysta as a subcutaneous therapy option for lupus patients.

Results from the BLISS-SC Phase III pivotal study showed that Benlysta 200 mg administered weekly via subcutaneous injection plus standard of care showed significantly greater reductions in disease activity among patients with active autoantibody-positive systemic lupus erythematosus.

Significantly more patients treated with belimumab administered subcutaneously showed reduced disease activity compared to placebo plus standard of care.

The study also showed that the time to severe flare was significantly delayed in patients receiving belimumab, with subjects also able to reduce their steroid treatment dosages.

Paul-Peter Tak, senior vice-president and head of the immuno-inflammation therapy area unit at GlaxoSmithKline, said: "We expect to progress towards global regulatory filings for a belimumab subcutaneous formulation, which if approved, will provide appropriate patients with a new approach to treatment administration."

The firm expects that up to 20 of its portfolio assets could be filed with regulators before 2020.