Eltrombopag improved platelet count and allowed initiation of antiviral therapy in hepatitis C patients

02-Nov-2006

GlaxoSmithKline plc announced results from a global Phase II study of eltrombopag, an investigational non-peptide oral platelet growth factor. In this study of 74 hepatitis C patients with thrombocytopenia, (a condition where the blood has low platelet levels) more than 95% (p< 0.001) of patients treated with the highest dose of eltrombopag (75mg) had increased platelet counts. In addition, 71% - 91% of patients in all treatment groups were able to initiate antiviral therapy with pegylated interferon- (IFN) and ribavirin, and 65% were able to be maintained on therapy.

"We are very excited by these results for eltrombopag which may offer hope to patients with hepatitis C currently unable to undergo antiviral therapy due to thrombocytopenia," said Paolo Paoletti, MD, Senior Vice President, Oncology Medicine Development Centre, GSK. "As we move into Phase III trials for eltrombopag in a variety of conditions where thrombocytopenia is a complicating factor, these data represent a significant milestone for GSK in supportive care and underscore our continued commitment to deliver novel treatments to meet significant unmet medical need."

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