New data shows effect of Biogen's blockbuster MS drugs

US biotech Biogen (Nasdaq: BIIB) has presented new real-world data showing that use of its leading multiple sclerosis (MS) therapies, Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) and Tysabri (natalizumab), early in the course of the disease, may improve outcomes for people living with relapsing MS.

These data were presented at the 69th annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) in Boston, USA, on Monday morning, after which Biogen’s share price rose by 1% to $275.59 in the first two hours of trading.

The results show that Tecfidera significantly reduced the risk of relapse by 30% compared to teriflunomide in newly-diagnosed patients and those previously treated with a prior disease-modifying therapy, and had comparable efficacy to fingolimod. These data are consistent with other comparative effectiveness data showing similar results to oral therapies and greater efficacy to interferon beta and glatiramer acetate.