Roche announces arthritis research findings

Roche states that Actemra (tocilizumab) – a new therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – can “significantly” inhibit structural damage to joints in patients with the condition.

The company notes Actemra – which is a humanised terleukin-6 receptor-inhibiting monoclonal antibody – was also found to enhance the physical function of participants after 12 months of therapy, as well as significantly increasing the disease remission rate.

Commenting on the findings of the study, which were presented at the American College of Rheumatology annual scientific meeting in San Francisco, William M Burns, head of the Roche Pharma Division, states they represent “good news” for RA sufferers.

“New treatment options are needed, particularly those that can target different pathways to bring relief and inhibit joint damage in patients suffering from RA.”

Dr Joel Kremer, director of research and the Centre for Rheumatology in Albany, New York, adds it is “critical” to stop join damage as soon as possible in order to avoid joint deformity and help people maintain their quality of life.

In recent days, Roche announced its financial results for the first nine months of 2008, which included an increase of ten per cent in group sales.