Roche's Schizophrenia Drug Fails Goal in Treating Symptoms

An experimental drug used to treat schizophrenia has failed to meet its primary end point in treating the negative symptoms of schizophrenia according to Reuters. The news organization notes that Roche, the Swiss drug company, had hoped to help those suffering from the health issue. 

Unfortunately, results of two Phase III trials showed that biopertin in combination with antipsychotic therapy did not reduce negative symptoms of the disease following 24 weeks of treatment when compared to those who received a placebo.

It's estimated that 26 million worldwide are affected by schizophrenia. However, current treatment options for the disorder's negative symptoms are limited and there is no cure at this time.

Though a third late-stage trial is currently ongoing, researchers note that the drug's affects have been disappointing.

"These results are disappointing for people with negative symptoms because more effective treatments are needed for these debilitating effects of schizophrenia," said Sandra Horning, Roche's chief medical officer and global head of product development, via Reuters.