Akero Therapeutics shares surge by 21% after positive Phase 2b study results for efruxifermin in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis with fibrosis. Promising outlook with high response rates and additional achievements at week 9...
Shares of Akero Therapeutics surged by 21% to $33.77 following the release of positive preliminary topline results from a Phase 2b study. The study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of their main product, efruxifermin, in patients with pre-cirrhotic metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis with fibrosis stage 2 or 3.
The study had previously met its primary endpoint by showing a one-stage improvement in fibrosis without worsening MASH after 24 weeks of treatment. The high-dose and low-dose groups both demonstrated significant improvement compared to the placebo arm.
Fast forward to week 96, and the results are even more impressive. Response rates for the high-dose group were at 75%, while the low-dose group showed a response rate of 46%. These rates far exceeded the placebo response of just 24%.
Not only did the study meet the primary endpoint, but it also achieved additional histology endpoints at week 96. A considerable number of patients experienced a two-stage improvement in fibrosis without worsening MASH.
Eefruxifermin was found to be well tolerated with no reported deaths. Serious adverse events were minimal and consistent across dose groups. The study is set to have a second biopsy after 96 weeks of treatment, with results expected in the first quarter of 2025.
These positive results showcase the potential of efruxifermin in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. With promising data and a focus on patient safety, Akero Therapeutics is making significant strides in the field.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
Leave Comment