Biogen Idec begins enrolment for ALS drug trial

Biogen Idec has commenced enrolment for a global phase III clinical trial of the new amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) drug dexpramipexole.

In association with partner Knopp Biosciences, the company has recruited its first patient for the Empower study, which will evaluate the efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of the drug among more than 800 subjects in total.

The primary target of the new study is to gauge the investigational therapy's effect on mortality and disability progression among those with familial or sporadic ALS, in accordance with the revised ALS Functional Rating Scale.

Dexpramipexole has already been shown to be well-tolerated during phase I and II tests and is intended to be submitted for regulatory review based on the outcome of the latest trial.

Dr Alfred Sandrock, senior vice-president of development at Biogen Idec, said: "We believe that dexpramipexole has the potential to be a significant advance for people suffering from ALS and we will fully explore its potential as a new treatment for this devastating disease."

In February 2011, the company published its financial report for 2010, noting an eight percent increase in total revenues compared to the year before.