Roche reports positive data from RoActemra comparative trial

Roche has announced positive data from a new clinical study comparing the efficacy of its rheumatoid arthritis treatment RoActemra to a leading alternative.

Data from the phase IV Adacta study showed that Roche's drug was able to deliver a significantly greater reduction in disease activity after 24 weeks than the rival monotherapy, while also achieving secondary goals such as DAS28 remission and reduced disease activity.

This was the first trial to determine superiority between two approved biologic monotherapies for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, with full details to be published at an upcoming scientific meeting.

Dr Hal Barron, head of global product development and chief medical officer for Roche, said: "Now that there are several therapies approved to treat patients with rheumatoid arthritis, trials comparing two active agents are critical as they provide important information to help healthcare professionals choose the right drug."

Last month, the pharmaceutical company was granted European regulatory approval for Zelboraf to be used as a treatment for metastatic melanoma, based on positive clinical trial data.