Biogen to Announce Study Results at Multiple Sclerosis Conference

Biogen has announced plans to present findings from a recent study and from clinical trials of their treatments for multiple sclerosis at the 32nd congress of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS).

The Biogen-sponsored multiple sclerosis Cost of Illness (COI) study includes information from more than 16,000 patients across Europe, making it the largest study to examine the impact of the disease, according to Biogen. The COI study builds on a previous study regarding the burden of the disease on patients and their caregivers.

The study shows their commitment to furthering research about multiple sclerosis to advance treatment options and improve patient outcomes. Other data presented will highlight new findings regarding both old and newer multiple sclerosis drugs.

Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) is the most prescribed oral treatment for multiple sclerosis treatment worldwide, Biogen reports. New evidence shows that Tecifdera is able to significantly reduce disease activity in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Additional findings confirm the drug’s safety profile for long-term treatment. Zinbryta (daclizumab) is a new monthly, subcutaneous drug approved for use in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Findings from the DECIDE study show that Zinbryta is an effective treatment that promotes no evidence of disease activity. Interim results from the EXTEND study will provide 5 years of efficacy and safety data, according to Biogen.

Results from the phase 2 SYNERGY study, a large trial investigating remyelantion, and the use of opicinumab (anti-LINGO-1) in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis will also be discussed.

“We look forward to hearing from the patient community in our upcoming ECTRIMS workshop on the burden of illness in MS,” said Ralph Kern, MD, senior vice president, Worldwide Medical, Biogen. “We encourage an open discussion about how the community can apply the main findings of the study to engage and educate researchers, governments, and policy makers around the issues most critical to patients, and, ultimately, identify new ways to improve outcomes in the treatment of MS.”