Novartis' Rhapsido shows safety edge and relapse reduction in Phase 3 multiple sclerosis trials

Novartis reported results from two identical Phase 3 studies of its BTK inhibitor Rhapsido in patients with multiple sclerosis.

The trials showed the oral pill lowered the annualized relapse rate compared with control, and investigators noted a safety profile that appeared more favorable than competing BTK inhibitors.

These findings raise the possibility that Rhapsido, currently being developed for chronic itch, could move into the multiple sclerosis market, pending further regulatory review.