A late-stage trial testing Novartis’ Cosentyx in individuals with giant cell arteritis failed to meet its primary endpoint.
The phase 3 study tested Cosentyx alongside a 26-week steroid taper and compared it with a placebo along with a longer, 52-week taper, according to a July 7 news release from the drugmaker.
The drug showed better results in secondary measures such as reducing total steroid use and side effects. However, the differences were not statistically significant.
After one year, there were no significant differences in the patients who remained in remission, the release said.
Despite the trial setback, the drug, which is used to treat psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases, has remained a major pharmaceutical product. In 2024, U.S. healthcare entities spent $7.7 billion on Cosentyx, making it the 16th-ranked drug by expenditure, according to a study published April 23 in the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy.
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