Astellas study demonstrates further benefits of Betmiga

Astellas has announced encouraging data from a post-hoc analysis of a phase III study of Betmiga, its new oral treatment for overactive bladder.

Results from the assessment provided further evidence that Betmiga has the potential to provide relief for patients who have discontinued prior treatment due to insufficient efficacy or poor tolerability.

The study found that all patient groups saw improvements from treatment with Astellas' drug compared to placebo, although the nature of the post-hoc analysis meant that statistical significance was not provable.

Nevertheless, the findings reinforce the body of evidence supporting the efficacy of Betmiga, which represents the first new class of oral treatment for overactive bladder for more than 30 years.

Lead study author Dr Vik Khullar, head of the department of urogynaecology at St Mary's Hospital in London, said: "Antimuscarinics are effective, but a significant number of people discontinue treatment either due to lack of efficacy or intolerable side effects, so it is very important that we can provide alternative options."

The drug was approved by the European Commission earlier this year and made its UK market debut in February 2013.