Sanofi provides negative update on tolebrutinib in MS

Results from the PERSEUS Phase III study showed that tolebrutinib did not meet its primary endpoint in delaying time to 6-month composite confirmed disability progression (cCDP) in participants with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS), which represents 10% of the overall multiple sclerosis patient population.

Based on these results, French pharma major Sanofi (Euronext: SAN) will not pursue regulatory registration for PPMS. The company’s shares dipped 1.8% at 81.83 euros by 1127 GMT, having dropped more than 6% early on.

"We are disappointed by today’s results; however, we do believe that these results will improve our understanding of the underlying disease biology of multiple sclerosis,” said Houman Ashrafian, executive vice president, head of R&D at Sanofi, adding: “We extend our deepest appreciation to the study participants, their families, and healthcare professionals who support our scientific and innovative vision. Our commitment to the multiple sclerosis community remains unchanged, as do our efforts to pursue novel advancements that address existing unmet needs and we remain confident in the value tolebrutinib can bring to those living with non-relapsing secondary progressive multiple sclerosis.”