>> Genentech says Lucentis helps in late-stage trial
Fri Jun 2, 2006 9:48 AM ET
CHICAGO, June 2 (Reuters) - Genentech Inc.< DNA > said on Friday a late-stage study of an experimental drug for the treatment of "wet" age-related macular degeneration, a key cause of blindness, met its primary goal of effectiveness of preventing vision loss.
However, the study, which evaluated a quarterly dosing schedule of the drug Lucentis, suggests that quarterly dosing did not maintain an initial improvement in vision.
Genentech said the study is just one of a number evaluating different dosing schedules. The company said it confirms earlier studies that show the effectiveness of monthly dosing.
The company has submitted data from earlier trials of the drug to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It expects to hear from the agency by June 30.
Lucentis, if approved, aims to compete with Macugen, a drug deemed much less effective by doctors that is sold by OSI Pharmaceuticals Inc. < OSIP >. They are both designed to treat the harmful "wet" form of age-related macular degeneration. It is caused by a proliferation of blood vessels in the eye, which leak and harm the central part of the eye. <<
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