Novartis reports positive phase III data for Cushing’s disease therapy

Novartis has highlighted data from a new clinical trial showing the efficacy of its drug Signifor among Cushing's disease sufferers.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has demonstrated that the investigational treatment is able to normalise cortisol levels and offer clinical benefits to patients after 12 months of treatment.

It was the largest randomised study ever conducted to evaluate a medical therapy in patients with Cushing's disease, as well as being the first phase III trial to show efficacy against this debilitating endocrine disorder.

Based on data from this trial, Europe's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use has recommended the treatment for approval across the EU.

Herve Hoppenot, president for Novartis Oncology, said: "We look forward to working with regulatory authorities worldwide to help bring this novel treatment option to market."

Earlier this month, the company published phase III clinical trial data for its investigational myelofibrosis drug INC424, demonstrating the significant benefits it can offer in the treatment of the deadly blood cancer.