Genentech has announced that baloxavir marboxil met the primary objective and showed superior efficacy in the primary endpoint of time to improvement of influenza symptoms.
Individuals at high risk for flu complications include those with asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes or heart disease, and adults over age 65. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that 71% to 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred in people 65 years of age and older with 54% to 70% of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations having occurred in this population as well.
“Baloxavir marboxil is the first antiviral to show a clinically meaningful benefit in people who are most susceptible to complications from the flu, including older people and those living with certain medical conditions,” said Sandra Horning, MD, chief medical officer and executive vice president of Global Product Development at Genentech in a statement.
