Roche’s RoActemra shows benefits in new phase III trials

Roche's rheumatoid arthritis therapy RoActemra has demonstrated its efficacy in a pair of new clinical studies conducted by subsidiary Genentech.

Data from the two phase III trials have shown that the drug can offer significant improvements to the signs and symptoms of the condition over a 24-week period, as well as demonstrating a strong safety profile.

RoActemra – which is known as Actemra in the US, where these latest trials were conducted – was evaluated both as a monotherapy and in combination with a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug, including methotrexate.

These results help to show that Roche's drug can be used on its own as a viable alternative to combination therapy where appropriate.

Dr Hal Barron, chief medical officer and head of global product development at Roche, said this information will "provide physicians with additional information to consider when selecting a medicine for their patients".

This comes after the drug received approval in Europe as a treatment for active systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis earlier this year.