Teva expands laquinimod clinical development

• Teva Pharmaceutical Industries (NYSE:TEVA -0.6%) and Active Biotech (OTC:ATVBF) expand their clinical development of laquinimod with the initiation of a Phase 2 proof-of-concept clinical trial (ARPEGGIO) to evaluate the drug for the treatment of primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS). The study will assess the efficacy of two doses (0.6 mg/day and 1.5 mg/day) versus placebo. The primary endpoint is brain atrophy as measured by percent brain volume change (PBVC) via MRI analysis from baseline to week 48. PPMS is characterized by worsening neurologic function without distinct relapses.
• Additionally, Teva has screened the first patient in another Phase 2 trial (LEGATO-HD) that will assess laquinimod for the treatment of Huntington's disease. The primary endpoint is the change from baseline after 12 months of treatment as measured by UHDRS-TMS.