Influenza (flu) is one of the most common infectious diseases in the world, with seasonal epidemics translating to high transmission rates. In a new global study, Roche’s Xofluza has shown a “significant” reduction in transmission of influenza (flu) viruses.

The Phase III trial coded CENTERSTONE found that when an infected person took a single oral dose of Xofluza, the risk of other members of their household getting the flu virus was considerably decreased.

The first worldwide study of its kind to demonstrate such outcomes.

Xofluza, an antiviral whose active pharmaceutical ingredient is baloxavir marboxil, is already approved in numerous countries across the globe for the management of uncomplicated influenza types A and B, as well as a post-exposure prophylaxis. But this new set of data represents a huge leap forward in combatting the virus and will be presented at the 2024 OPTIONS XII for the Control of Influenza Congress, Brisbane, Australia.

The drug, discovered by Shionogi & Co., with further development and commercialization done in partnership with the Roche Group, acts by blocking viral replication, inhibiting the cap-dependent endonuclease protein, potentially shortening the illness's duration and infectiousness.

Representing the first influenza antiviral medication with a novel mode of action to be licensed for use in treating children, adolescents, and adults in almost two decades.

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The study, a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, was conducted across 272 sites worldwide and recruited otherwise healthy individuals between the ages of five and sixty-four who had received a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or fast influenza diagnostic test diagnosis of influenza.

These individuals were referred to as index patients (IPs), and those living with them were referred to as household contacts, or HHCs. The percentage of HHCs who tested positive for influenza five days after the IP received either Xofluza or a placebo was the main outcome measure.

In a key secondary endpoint, the study assessed the proportion of HHCs who tested positive for influenza by day five and experienced influenza symptoms.

"Building on Xofluza's established efficacy in treating and preventing influenza after exposure, this new evidence of transmission reduction represents an important advance that could help improve health outcomes at an individual and community level," stated Levi Garraway, M.D., Ph.D., Roche's Chief Medical Officer.

The trial was partially sponsored through federal funds from the US Department of Health and Human Services and represents a huge step in dealing with a virus, which seasonally is a burden to global public health.

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