Unexpectedly strong data for Galapagos rheumatoid arthritis drug candidate

Shares of Belgium-based biotech firm Galapagos (Euronext: GLPG) jumped 22% on Tuesday and a further 12% yesterday to 8.10 euros, after the firm reported unexpectedly strong efficacy data from the small Phase IIa study of its JAK1 inhibitor, GLGP0634, in rheumatoid arthritis, showing that the compound achieved its primary endpoint of significant improvement in the signs and symptoms of RA.

“We noticed a rapid and remarkable response for the RA patients participating in this trial, with no treatment-emergent safety signals arising,” said Minodora Mazur, Professor Internal Medicine & Rheumatology, State Medical and Pharmaceutical University (Nicolae Testemitanu) and principal investigator for the trial, adding: “Patients did very well while on therapy - in fact, many reported significant improvements after one week of treatment.”

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