Human Genome Sciences presents interim results of phase 2b trial of Albuferon with Ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis

16-May-2006

Human Genome Sciences, Inc. reported 12-week interim results from a Phase 2b clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Albuferon(TM) (albumin-interferon alpha 2b) in combination with ribavirin in patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C (HCV) who are naïve to interferon alpha-based treatment regimens. The results demonstrate that Albuferon in combination with ribavirin was safe, well tolerated and showed robust antiviral activity.

David C. Stump, M.D., Executive Vice President, Drug Development, Human Genome Sciences, said, "We believe that an interferon with less frequent dosing than pegylated interferon, and with comparable safety and efficacy, would be an important therapeutic option for patients with chronic hepatitis C. Albuferon appears capable of meeting this target at doses of 900-1200 mcg at two-week intervals."

Albuferon is a novel, long-acting form of interferon alpha 2b. It is a Human Genome Sciences drug made possible by the company's proprietary albumin fusion technology, which was used to improve the pharmacological properties of interferon alpha. Recombinant interferon alpha is approved for the treatment of hepatitis C, hepatitis B and a broad range of cancers. Human Genome Sciences is developing Albuferon for use in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C.

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