Roche publishes positive Mircera studies

Roche has announced the results of two studies showing the positive reaction in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis and those with renal anaemia not on dialysis treated twice monthly with Mircera.

Mircera is a novel investigational anti-anaemia continues erythropoietin receptor activator developed by Roche that stimulates red blood cell production at receptor sites to control anaemia.

The phase III Arctos and Amicus trials using epoetin alfa-beta or darbopetien alfa as comparator agents examined the efficacy of intravenous and subcutaneous administration of Mircera dispensed to correct anaemia and maintain haemoglobin levels in patients with CKD, irrespective of whether or not they are on dialysis.

Marian Klinger, an investigator in the Amicus study, said: “These findings demonstrate Mircera’s clear ability to effectively and safely correct anaemia in patients on dialysis along with offering a convenience for patients and medical staff with extended twice monthly dosing intervals.”

In July, Roche announced the results of phase III clinical trials showing that patients on dialysis suffering with anaemia frequently treated with short-acting epoetin drugs could be switched to an administration of Mircera once a month to achieve stable haemoglobin levels.

The company noted that such a move could provide greater efficiency in treatment and reduce workloads.