GlaxoSmithKline reports new trial results for lupus treatment

GlaxoSmithKline has published new data from a phase III clinical trial of its systemic lupus erythematosus treatment Benlysta.

Data from the 76th week of the Bliss-76 trial showed that use of Benlysta, plus the current standard of care, showed a higher response rate than placebo, although not enough to attain statistical significance.

However, the company previously reported after week 52 of the study that the treatment had already met its primary endpoint of disease activity reduction.

Dr Carlo Russo, senior vice-president of biopharmaceutical development at GlaxoSmithKline, said: “We believe that belimumab could deliver a significant therapeutic option for patients with lupus, a chronic condition which has a devastating effect on the lives of patients living with the disease.”

The drug is being developed in collaboration between GlaxoSmithKline and Human Genome Sciences.

Earlier this week, the company was granted approval by the European Commission for Arzerra, a new treatment for refractory chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.