STAT+: Novo Nordisk inflammation-targeting drug misses mark in heart disease study

Elaine’s stories explore the boom in new obesity treatments, new drug payment models, the ways companies are affected by FDA changes, and the emerging psychedelics drug sector. She co-writes The Readout newsletter, and co-hosts STAT’s weekly biotech podcast, The Readout Loud. You can reach Elaine on Signal at elaineywchen.70.Novo Nordisk said Friday that its investigational anti-inflammatory drug did not reduce the risk of major heart events in a pivotal trial, raising questions about the increasingly popular approach of targeting inflammation to prevent cardiovascular complications. In a Phase 3 study that enrolled over 6,300 people with heart disease, kidney disease, and inflammation, the drug, ziltivekimab, did lower markers of inflammation, Novo said. However, that did not translate into a reduction in risk of major complications, including cardiovascular-related death, heart attack, or stroke. Novo shares were down about 7% Friday. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the pharma industry — by subscribing to STAT+. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe