Biotech Values

[iwfal]

Merck's version of CETP inhibitor:

In DEFINE, pre-specified adjudicated cardiovascular events occurred in 16 patients given anacetrapib (2.0 percent) compared with 21 patients who received placebo (2.6 percent) (p=0.40), coronary revascularization was carried out in significantly fewer people given anacetrapib compared with those taking placebo (8 vs. 28, respectively, p<0.001), and death from any cause occurred in 11 patients taking anacetrapib and in eight patients given placebo (p=0.5)

In comparison to niacin the primary endpoint looks pretty weak (niacin trials show strong efficacy (>50% reduction) in very short term). But the revasc data is strong. Surprising difference. Will be interesting to see the results of a bigger trial and understand why the disconnect between the two. Might shed light not just on CETP inhibitors but also other drugs MOA.