Novartis drug shows efficacy against severe gouty arthritis

Novartis has published new clinical trial data demonstrating the effectiveness of one of its drugs in combating severe gouty arthritis.

The company has conducted two phase III studies of ACZ885 to support its regulatory filings for the drug in this indication in the EU, North America and Switzerland.

It was shown that the investigational human monoclonal antibody offered improved pain relief and a reduced risk of new attacks compared to an injectable steroid.

David Epstein, head of the pharmaceuticals division of Novartis, said: "We are very excited about these results, which indicate that ACZ885 may become a significant new alternative for gouty arthritis patients where many standard anti-inflammatory treatments are inadequate or inappropriate."

ACZ885 is already approved in the EU as a therapy for cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes and is marketed under the brand name Ilaris.

Earlier this month, Novartis published new trial data for Onbrez Breezhaler, further demonstrating the drug's efficacy in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.