UCB and Dermira commence Cimzia psoriasis trial

UCB and partner Dermira have commenced a phase III clinical trial programme to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Cimzia in adult patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

The first patients have now been dosed in the phase III programme, which will encompass three studies enrolling approximately 1,000 patients, including those with and without prior treatment experience with biologic products.

Based on current projections, top-line data from these studies are expected in 2017. It is hoped these findings will support UCB's intention of seeking approval for its lead product in a new indication.

This programme comes as part of a deal signed in July 2014 that gave Dermira exclusive rights to develop Cimzia as a psoriasis therapy in the US, Canada and the EU.

Professor Dr Iris Loew-Friedrich, chief medical officer and executive vice-president of UCB, said the work "demonstrates our continued commitment to further investigate Cimzia in an effort to potentially broaden patient access and improve outcomes for people living with this chronic autoimmune disorder".

Cimzia is one of UCB's most important assets and is currently approved for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.