Biogen Inc. said it will no longer pursue development of natalizumab as a treatment for acute ischemic stroke.
An ischemic stroke is characterized by the sudden loss of blood circulation to an area of the brain, resulting in a corresponding loss of neurologic function.
The decision is based on the results of a mid-stage study known as Action 2, which enrolled 270 patients. The phase 2b study failed to meet its main goal of showing a meaningful improvement in outcomes when compared to placebo.
The study was a follow up to the original Action trial, which suggested natalizumab improved clinical outcomes when compared with placebo.
Biogen noted that the results of the study do not affect the benefit-risk profile of the drug in approved indications, including multiple sclerosis.
Natalizumab is market as Tysabri for the treatment of multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease. The drug generated $2 billion in full-year 2017 revenues.
