Johnson and Johnson reveals results of Rivaroxaban study

Johnson and Johnson has said studies on Rivaroxaban have shown the drug reduces the occurrence of symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) and death.

The research of the product – currently in joint development between the company and Bayer Healthcare – found it reduced incidences by 50 per cent following knee or hip replacement surgery, in comparison to enoxaparin treatment regimens.

Data obtained from the Record (Regulation of coagulation in major orthopaedic surgery reducing the risk of deep vain thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) trials also found rates of major bleeding were low and not statistically different from the comparator.

Dr Alexander Turpie, professor of medicine at McMaster University in Canada and principal investigator for the Record programme, said: “Swelling in the leg and shortness of breath are symptoms that can herald venous thromboembolism, which, in turn, can result in long-term complications or death.”

“As a physician, one of my goals is to reduce patients’ risk of complications.”

In other news, Johnson and Johnson has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Mentor Corporation.

The deal will see a purchase of the company for $1.07 billion (720 million pounds), in a cash tender offer of $31 per share.