Novartis’ Siponimod Achieves Phase III Endpoint in MS Trial

Novartis’ siponimod met its primary endpoint in a Phase III trial, reducing the risk of three-month confirmed disability progression in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis.

The EXPAND randomized study — the largest ever for SPMS, enrolling 1,651 patients from 31 countries — compared oral, once-daily siponimod (BAF312) to placebo. Top-line results are planned to be presented as a late-breaking oral abstract at the Congress of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis on Sept. 17 in London.

Siponimod is a selective modulator of specific types of the sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor.