Sanofi's Tolebrutinib Shows Mixed Results in MS Trials, Exceeds in Progressive Form

Sanofi's tolebrutinib failed to meet goals in two trials for relapsing MS but succeeded in a less common progressive MS trial. Shares rose by 4.5%. The drug company aims to file for approval by the end of 2024. Concerns remain over the drug's link to liver damage.

Sanofi's most advanced multiple sclerosis drug candidate, tolebrutinib, has fallen short in the main goal of two late-stage trials for relapsing forms of the disease. However, it showed positive results in treating a less common, progressive form of MS. Despite the setback, investors focused on the good news, with analysts noting that the trial failure was widely anticipated due to similar outcomes with other compounds.

Shares of Sanofi saw a significant uptick, rising by as much as 4.5% and reaching a ten-month high. Jefferies analysts commented, 'Despite mixed news, tolebrutinib now appears a largely de-risked perhaps $1-2 billion opportunity.'

The company disclosed that the experimental pill was not superior to its established MS drug Aubagio in reducing relapse rates. Yet, it succeeded in slowing disability progression in a progressive form of MS. Sanofi plans to discuss these results with regulators and aims to file for approval by the end of 2024, part of its broader strategy to strengthen its anti-inflammatory drug pipeline.

(With inputs from agencies.)