Final Stage Test, AstraZeneca Claims The Drug Is 3 Times More Effective At Cleaning Copper In The Body

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JAKARTA - AstraZeneca claims its homemade medicine is three times more effective at cleaning copper deposits from body tissues than regular treatments. The healing efficacy is known through late-stage trials.

The drug, developed by the Alexion rare disease unit, which was recently acquired by AstraZeneca, is being tested for Wilson's disease. Reporting from Reuters via Antara, Wilson is a genetic condition that interferes with the body's ability to eliminate copper deposits.

The experimental once-daily oral drug could provide a less invasive option for patients who are usually given treatment that involves injections of metal-removing metals into the blood or zinc therapy.

"As we develop the first innovations in the treatment of Wilson's disease for more than 30 years, we will continue to monitor these patients long-term to assess further clinical impact on disease symptoms," said Alexion CEO Marc Dunoyer.

Copper deposits can cause liver disease and neurological or psychiatric symptoms, such as changes in personality, tremors, and difficulty walking, swallowing or speaking.

The study met the primary goal of improving the daily average copper coming from the network over a period of 48 weeks.

The treatment has been granted "Orphan Drug" status in the United States and the European Union to help accelerate development.