Clinical program with filgotinib in UC

Our clinical program with filgotinib in UC

UC is an inflammatory bowel disease resulting in ulcerations and inflammation of the colon and rectum. Unlike CD, UC involves damaging inflammation of only the colon and rectum. Although the introduction of anti-TNF biologics has improved the treatment of some patients, only 33% of patients will achieve long-term remission, and many patients lose their response to treatment over time. The medical need for improved efficacy is high and could likely be achieved by a new mechanism of action.

Increased activity and focus from potential competitors has led to more clinical trials of oral therapies in UC. Pfizer showed activity with Xeljanz (pan-JAK inhibitor) in Phase 3 UC trials and has filed for approval. AbbVie is conducting a Phase 2 trial with upadacitinib (pan-JAK inhibitor) which should read out in 2017. Celgene is investigating ozanimod (S1P 1 and 5 receptor modulator) in Phase 3 and GED-0301 (SMAD-7) in Phase 2 in UC.

Gilead initiated the SELECTION Phase 2b/3 trial in UC with filgotinib in December 2016. SELECTION investigates efficacy and safety of 100 mg and 200 mg filgotinib once-daily compared to placebo in patients with moderately to severely active disease including those with prior antibody therapy failure. Gilead will recruit approximately 1,300 patients from the U.S., Europe, Latin America, Canada, and Asia/Pacific regions. The SELECTION Phase 2b/3 trial in ulcerative colitis will include a futility analysis, serving as the Phase 2b part of this integrated Phase 2b/3 study. Men and women in SELECTION will be randomized to receive placebo, 100 mg or 200 mg filgotinib. In the U.S., males may receive 200 mg if they failed at least one anti-TNF and vedolizumab.