Roche says Actemra can have long-term benefits

Roche has discussed data from trials showing Actemra can help people achieve high remission rates over a period of time.

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis can benefit from this as it allows them to go about their daily lives without their illness proving too much of a burden.

Studies revealed up to 56 per cent of sufferers who had been treated with the drug for two years or more achieved disease remission.

The company stated the results are further proof of the efficacy of the medication.

Professor Josef Smolen from the University of Vienna explained how high levels of remission can be beneficial to both patients and medical professionals.

Firstly, it shows that it is possible to meet low levels of disease activity across a large patient population and secondly, it confirms the drug can be used as a long-term treatment to make a dramatic difference to people’s lives, he stated.

Meanwhile, Roche has also released date from trials examining aleglitazar for its ability to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in high risk sufferers with type 2 diabetes.