GlaxoSmithKline PLC (LON:GSK) said an independent data monitoring committee (IDMC) recommended to stop the final phase of trials on a COVID-19 treatment because it’s very effective.
VIR-7831 is a monoclonal antibody developed in collaboration with Vir Biotechnology Inc (NASDAQ:VIR), after the pair agreed to work together on potential COVID-19 solutions last April.
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The IDMC recommendation was based on an interim analysis of data from 583 patients enrolled in the trial, which demonstrated an 85% reduction in hospitalisation or death in those receiving the candidate compared to a placebo.
Based on these results, Vir and GSK plan to submit an Emergency Use Authorization application to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and for authorisations in other countries.
The companies also announced on Thursday the results of a new study showing that VIR-7831 maintains activity against several mutations including the UK, South African and Brazilian variants, based on in vitro data.
The FTSE 100 pharma giant said the candidate binds to a highly protected molecule of the spike protein, which may make it more difficult for resistance to develop, unlike other monoclonal antibodies.
"These exciting data with a single antibody against a conserved epitope bring us one step closer to delivering an effective new solution to patients around the globe,” said Vir’s chief executive George Scangos in a release.
“The dual-action design of VIR-7831 to both block viral entry into healthy cells and clear infected cells, as well as its high barrier to resistance, are key distinguishing characteristics.”