Roche’s study shows Actemra is effective RA treatment

Roche’s Actemra has demonstrated its ability in clinical trials to give rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients the chance of long-lasting remission from the condition.

The drug (known as RoActemra within the EU) was found to be effective at stopping joint structural damage, which is a vital measure of success when testing treatments for the illness.

During the two-year Lithe study, it also maintained consistently high remission rates.

Chief executive officer of the company’s pharmaceutical division William M Burns noted the investigation was the fifth largest of its kind and commented on the results.

“In most patients, Actemra inhibited the progression of structural joint damage, which is a major cause of disability and loss of physical function for RA patients,” he said.

To support regulatory applications for labelling claims that the medication can improve movement and stop the progression of bone impairment, the full results from the trial will be submitted to the relevant bodies.

Earlier this month, the Food and Drug Administration permitted the accelerated approval of Roche’s Avastin (bevacizumab) for patients with glioblastoma with progressive disease following prior therapy.