GSK's Bepirovirsen Shows Promise in Treating Chronic Hepatitis B
GSK's chronic hepatitis B drug helps one in five achieve functional cure in key studies
Image: The Economic Times
GSK's experimental drug, bepirovirsen, has shown that nearly 20% of chronic hepatitis B patients achieved a functional cure in late-stage studies. This treatment could offer a finite alternative to lifelong antiviral therapy, with regulatory decisions expected soon.
- 01Bepirovirsen helped 19% of patients achieve a functional cure after six months of treatment.
- 02The response rate increased to 26% for patients with lower surface antigen levels.
- 03GSK anticipates peak annual sales exceeding £2 billion ($2.7 billion) for bepirovirsen.
- 04Current treatments only enable 1% to 4% of chronic hepatitis B patients to clear the virus sustainably.
- 05GSK is awaiting regulatory approval in multiple regions, including the U.S., with a decision expected by October 26.
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GSK's experimental drug, bepirovirsen, has demonstrated significant potential in treating chronic hepatitis B, with nearly 19% of patients achieving a functional cure in late-stage studies presented at a medical conference. This treatment offers a promising alternative to the current standard of lifelong antiviral pills, which only help 1% to 4% of patients clear the virus sustainably. The studies revealed that after six months of treatment, patients with surface antigen levels below 3,000 international units per millilitre (IU/ml) experienced a notable response rate, which increased to 26% among those with even lower levels. GSK aims for bepirovirsen to contribute to its goal of over £40 billion ($54 billion) in annual revenue by 2031, with expectations of peak sales surpassing £2 billion ($2.7 billion). The drug was generally well tolerated, with mild side effects reported. GSK is currently seeking regulatory approval in the U.S., Japan, China, and Europe, with a decision from the U.S. expected by October 26.
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The development of bepirovirsen could significantly improve treatment options for chronic hepatitis B patients, potentially reducing the need for lifelong antiviral therapy.
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