Merck Sharpe and Dohme reports positive osteoporosis trial data

Merck Sharpe and Dohme has reported positive new trial data supporting the safety and efficacy of odanacatib, its new therapy for osteoporosis.

The company has reported results from clinical and pre-clinical studies at the annual meeting of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research this month, covering an oral presentation and five posters.

Data from the studies suggested that odanacatib is able to increase bone mineral density and reduce bone resorption markers among postmenopausal women, supporting conclusions for the earlier animal testing phase.

Currently, odanacatib is undergoing phase III trials to determine its safety and potential benefits for sufferers of hip, vertebral and non-vertebral fractures.

Dr Albert Leung, executive director for clinical research at Merck Research Laboratories, said: "Merck is pleased to continue building scientific knowledge about odanacatib with new data showing this investigational medication's effects."

Earlier this month, the company announced new phase III data for its HIV drug Isentress, demonstrating its efficacy among a wide range of patients.