Amgen reports positive data from Aranesp myelodysplastic syndrome study

Amgen has announced new clinical trial data showing how its drug Aranesp can help reduce red blood cell transfusions in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

Results from the phase III ARCADE trial showed the drug met its primary endpoint of reducing the incidence of red blood cell transfusions in anaemic patients with low and intermediate-1 risk MDS at the end of a 25-week study period.

Aranesp also significantly improved erythroid response, a key measure of the formation of new red blood cells, while safety data was shown to be consistent with the established profile of the drug.

MDS is among the most common type of bone marrow failure syndromes in adults, characterised by a lack of healthy white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. Sufferers are at a greater risk of infection, anaemia and bleeding.

Dr Sean Harper, executive vice-president of research and development at Amgen, said: "We are pleased to see positive results from this study, as anaemia treatment options for myelodysplastic syndrome are limited and can place a significant burden on patients."

This comes after the firm reported positive clinical trial data for its drugs Repatha and Blincyto earlier this month.