MERCK - Vorapaxar shows minor Overall Net Clinical benefit- Limited commercial potential
At ACC, Merck reported final detailed results on Vorapaxar from the TRA 2°P-TIMI-50 study. Excluding patients with prior history of stroke (discontinued study on recommendation of DSMB due to unfavorable risk-reward), the net clinical benefit was positive, but not impressive, due to significantly higher rates of major bleeds. The net clinical benefit was best in patients with a prior history of MI (2/3 patient population), where Vorapaxar reduced death/stroke/MI events by 140, while the number of GUSTO moderate/severe bleeding increased by 110, and the number of fatal bleeds/ICH by 20. Taking a clue from the commercial uptake of Brilinta, and also accounting for the inconvenience of triple antiplatelet therapy, we do not see meaningful sales for Vorapaxar.
Merck is yet to decide on whether to file this drug for approval.
Merck is yet to decide on whether to file this drug for approval.
COMPANIES MENTIONED
MERCK
MERCK
