Bristol-Myers Squibb and AstraZeneca report positive Onglyza data

Bristol-Myers Squibb and AstraZeneca have announced positive data from a new phase III clinical trial of the EU-approved diabetes therapy Onglyza.

The companies have conducted a phase IIIb study in which the addition of Onglyza to ongoing insulin therapy was compared to the addition of placebo between 24 and 52 weeks of treatment.

It was found that patients in the Onglyza group were able to experience maintained improvements in blood sugar control levels.

Currently, the drug – which is indicated for use in combination with metformin, sulphonylurea and thiazolidinedione-based therapies – is yet to be ratified for use alongside insulin.

Dr Anthony Barnett of the University of Birmingham and Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust said: "Since many patients with type 2 diabetes will eventually require insulin, it is important to assess a compound's ability to be used in combination with insulin to manage blood glucose control."

Earlier this week, Bristol-Myers Squibb announced a new collaboration with Ambrx on the development of new therapies for diabetes and heart failure.