Actelion begins phase III trials of new MS drug

Actelion Pharmaceuticals has begun phase III trials of a new drug it has developed to help combat some of the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Some 1,100 patients are expected to be recruited to take part in the study, which aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of ponesimod – an S1P1 receptor modulator – in reducing relapses in individuals diagnosed with the condition.

Head of global clinical development at Actelion Guy Braunstein stated: "Ponesimod brings a number of unique properties, which include selectivity for the S1P1 receptor, rapid onset of action, a clear dose-response and rapid reversibility upon discontinuation."

He explained that the latter is particularly important when it comes to healthcare professionals having to determine whether or not full restoration of an MS patient's immune system is required.

In addition, the pharmaceutical firm is planning to conduct a phase II trial involving the drug to analyse its effectiveness in treating patients with chronic graft versus host disease.