>Given the growing body of superior head to head trial results [of Arixtra] against Lovenox why is it having such a hard time gaining share?<
That’s a great question. Empirical evidence says Arixtra is the better drug (#msg-10569101, #msg-10588533) but docs are overwhelmingly sticking with the tried and true Lovenox.
My answer is that Arixtra lost a great deal of momentum when it was divested from SNY as a condition of the Aventis merger and ended up with GSK: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2004/07/sanofiaventis.htm
GSK has never given Arixtra the backing it deserves, IMO.
By the way, SNY is not resting on its Lovenox laurels. These are the disclosed thrombosis products in SNY’s pipeline:
>> Biotinylated idraparinux (SSR126517) is a neutralizable selective inhibitor of coagulation factor Xa. SSR126517 is a long-acting synthetic pentasaccharide, with the addition of biotin hook allows quick and efficient neutralization following the infusion of avidin [i.e. it’s reversible]. This unique profile provides SSR126517 potentially with a competitive advantage over current oral anticoagulants. The clinical development program was designed to bridge clinical results obtained with idraparinux. In Deep Vein Thrombosis, a bioequipotency study, EQUINOX, was initiated in 2006. Another study was also initiated in pulmonary embolism, CASSIOPEA. A Phase III trial to demonstrate the efficacy of biotinylated idraparinux in the prevention of stroke in Atrial Fibrillation patients is scheduled to start in H2 2007.
SR123781 is a synthetic short-acting hexadecasaccharide which exhibit highly potent indirect factor Xa and factor IIa inhibition properties. SR123781 is currently being studied in two phase IIb studies: the DRIVE trial in patients undergoing total hip replacement surgery, and the SHINE study in patients with non-ST elevated acute coronary syndrome. Results of both studies are expected in H2 2007.
AVE5026 is a ultra low molecular weight heparin with a high ratio of anti- factor Xa activity to anti-factor IIa activity, as compared to low-molecular- weight heparins. This once-a-day antithrombotic agent is being developed primarily in the prevention of venous thromboembolic events in cancer patients. Phase IIb results are expected in H2 2007.
Otamixaban (XRP0673) is a synthetic, short-acting, direct and selective factor Xa inhibitor displaying a quick onset/offset (short initial half-life) designed for use in acute coronary syndrome patients undergoing invasive treatment. The primary targeted indication is the treatment of acute coronary syndrome. SEPIA-PCI, a phase IIa study showed a good safety profile with predictable and dose proportional anticoagulant activity. SEPIA-ACS, a phase IIb study, is being initiated. <<
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