Novartis Cosentyx first to show efficacy in all key manifestations of psoriatic arthritis

Novartis International AG / Novartis Cosentyx first to show efficacy in all key manifestations of psoriatic arthritis . Processed and transmitted by West Corporation. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

• First-of-its-kind data shows efficacy and safety of a biologic in the management of axial manifestations of psoriatic arthritis (PsA), which affect up to an estimated 35 million people worldwide[1]
   

66.3% of patients treated with secukinumab 150 mg achieved rapid and significant improvements in the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis with axial manifestations at Week 12
 

Cosentyx bridges for the first time treatment of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and axial manifestations
 

Results strengthen unique position of Cosentyx as a rapid, comprehensive treatment of spondyloarthritis and psoriatic disease, with over 200,000 patients treated worldwide

Basel, June 12, 2019 - Novartis, a leader in rheumatology and immuno-dermatology, today announced new data from the MAXIMISE trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of Cosentyx (secukinumab) in the management of axial manifestations of psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

The ongoing 52-week Phase IIIb trial met both its primary and key secondary endpoint with 63.1% of Cosentyx 300 mg and 66.3% of Cosentyx 150 mg patients achieving ASAS20 at Week 12 (versus 31.3% for placebo) respectively. Rapid onset of relief was seen as early as week four, with the trial demonstrating a favorable safety profile consistent with previous clinical trials[2].

"Up to two thirds of patients with psoriatic arthritis experience inflammatory back pain, which can limit mobility," said Dr. Laura Coates, NIHR Clinician Scientist and Senior Clinical Research Fellow at Nuffield Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, UK. "This study provides clinicians with the evidence to help them choose a comprehensive treatment for psoriatic arthritis that addresses diverse patient phenotypes."

PsA is a complex disease with multiple manifestations driving patient symptoms[3],[4]. It is estimated to affect up to 50 million people wordwide[5-8] and is part of a family of long-term inflammatory diseases (spondyloarthritis) that target the joints. It is closely associated with psoriasis; up to 40% of patients with psoriasis have PsA[6].