Lilly reports positive results from arzoxifene trial

Lilly has noted that initial results gleaned from a phase III trial into arzoxifene have been positive.

In a statement, the organisation explained that the study met its primary endpoints of reducing the risk of invasive breast cancer and vertebral fracture in postmenopausal women.

However, a number of adverse side effects, including gynecological-related events and hot flushes, were reported more frequently in patients who received arzoxifene compared to those who were given a placebo.

Lilly has elected not to submit the compound for regulatory review, after examining the overall clinical profile of the therapy in light of treatments that are currently available, including its own osteoporosis management products.

Commenting, M Johnston Erwin, global brand development leader for the musculoskeletal platform at Lilly, said that the company’s goal is to provide therapies that offer improved patient outcomes.

“While arzoxifene met its primary efficacy objectives in this study, we are disappointed that the […] data did not convincingly demonstrate that arzoxifene would represent a meaningful advancement in the treatment of osteoporosis,” he added.

In recent weeks, Lilly announced a new online registry detailing payments it has made to physicians and other healthcare professionals.