Roche touts positive Phase III results with Xofluza

Roche (ROG: SIX) today released positive top-line results of the Phase III CENTERSTONE study of Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil), an antiviral, showing a reduction in the transmission of influenza viruses.

The Swiss pharma giant said that the study met its primary endpoint, demonstrating that a single, oral dose of Xofluza taken by people infected with influenza significantly reduced the likelihood of others in their household contracting the virus. Xofluza was well tolerated with no new safety signals identified.

CENTERSTONE is the first global Phase III study to show a transmission reduction benefit with an antiviral used in the treatment of a respiratory viral illness. Roche suggested that this new data may add to the benefits of Xofluza, which is currently approved for treating symptoms and preventing infection following virus exposure.