By Michael Calia
Merck & Co. said Thursday that a pair of its hepatitis C
virus treatments showed a cure rate of 98% in a mid-stage trial,
supporting advancement of the study.
The drug maker said it has initiated a Phase 3 trial after
analyzing the study results of the 12-week regimen using the
treatments, MK-5172 and MK-8742. The company said the study also
showed a 94% cure rate for patients receiving those treatments,
plus ribavirin.
The company said there were no early discontinuations of the
treatment due to adverse effects, nor were any significant
abnormalities detected. The most common side effects were fatigue,
headache, nausea, diarrhea and insomnia, Merck said.
Merck has taken some hits lately as it contends with patent
expirations on lucrative drugs, as well as issues with bringing new
products to the marketplace. Last year, the company said it would
cut its workforce by 20% over two years, including cutting
positions in its research and development operations. The company
has also said it would consider shedding some products and
businesses.
The company in February said it agreed to collaborate with other
drug makers to study its investigational cancer treatment.
Shares of Merck rose 1.8% to $58.10 in recent premarket trading.
Through Wednesday's close, the stock was up 14% so far this
year.
Write to Michael Calia at michael.calia@wsj.com
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