GSK seeks further Asian approvals with new Benlysta data

UK pharma major GlaxoSmithKline (LSE: GSK) is hopeful that new data on its systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treatment will prompt new approvals in parts of Northeast Asia.

Currently South Korea is the only country in the region where Benlysta (belimumab) has been approved, leaving other parts of Northeast Asia with no approved biologic treatment option for lupus.

GSK believes that this could change based on the new Phase III study findings, which follow three previous positive pivotal trial data sets. The new results have been presented at the 2016 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and Association for Rheumatology Health Professionals (ARHP) Annual Meeting in Washington DC.