GlaxoSmithKline shows advances in adjuvant use

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has published the results of trials that reveal the novel adjuvant it is using to boost the effectiveness of its cervical cancer vaccine works better than conventional compounds.

GSK is using a new molecule, called AS04, as an adjuvant to increase the effectiveness of its Cervarix treatment is preference to the traditional use of aluminium salts.

AS04 was acquired by GSK when it took over Corixa earlier this year and in studies was found to produce a stronger immune response in women given Cervarix with AS04 for used as an adjuvant.

It was found to give a sustained the stronger response for three and a half years after women were given the Cervarix jab.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer, and the third leading cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide.

GSK will present initial results from its Corixa trials, involving more than 28,000 women worldwide, early next year.

Merck & Co presented the results trials involving its rival drug Gardasil earlier this year that showed total protection against early-stage cervical cancers and pre-cancerous lesions associated with strains 16 and 18 of HPV.

Gardisil uses a traditional aluminium salt adjuvant.

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