Novartis reports positive results for osteoporosis study

The first ever clinical study into patients who have suffered hip fractures when also diagnosed with osteoporosis has shown positive results for Novartis’ Aclasta-Relcast.

The study found that a once-yearly infusion of the drug reduced the risk of subsequent fractures by 35 per cent compared to patients who were treated with a placebo.

Risk of death was also significantly reduced in patients taking Aclasta, with a 28 per cent fall in risk compared to those taking a placebo.

The study, to be published in the New England Journal of Medicine, looked at over 2,000 patients who suffered hip fractures.

Steven Boonen, senior author of the NEJM publication, confirmed how few patients were given osteoporosis treatment following a hip fracture despite the high risk of morbidity and mortality.

“This unique study highlights a novel approach to treating osteoporosis and proves that a once-yearly infusion of Aclasta may significantly advance the way we treat our patients with osteoporosis,” Dr Boonen said.

In July, Novartis announced that Aclasta had received a positive opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use as a treatment for bone disorder postmenopausal osteoporosis.