Roche reports positive data from Herceptin trial

Roche has published data from a new phase III clinical study that demonstrates the efficacy of a new administration method for the breast cancer drug Herceptin.

The company has conducted a study called HannaH, in which an investigational subcutaneous formulation of the therapy was compared to a standard intravenous infusion among HER2-positive early breast cancer patients.

It was found that both methods delivered comparable safety and efficacy, but the subcutaneous option takes only five minutes to administer, compared to around 30 minutes for infusion.

According to Roche, this new option could therefore allow patients to spend less time in hospital receiving treatment, while eliminating the need for medicine preparation time.

Dr Hal Barron, chief medical officer and head of global product development, said: "Herceptin given by subcutaneous injection has the potential to offer patients an effective, more convenient delivery option for this proven medicine."

Earlier this week, the company announced plans to acquire Anadys Pharmaceuticals, a specialist developer of therapies for hepatitis C.