A combination of a cystic fibrosis drug and a new experimental treatment from Vertex Pharmaceuticals has shown to improve breathing ability in sufferers, the company said in a May 7 statement.
"There was a statistically significant improvement in lung function...across the combined treatment groups...of those who received VX-809 and KALYDECO," said Vertex.
For the 70,000 people worldwide with cystic fibrosis, it could mean a life changing therapy; for Vertex, it has already meant significant improvement in their stock which rose 55 percent($58.12/share) after the news was announced.
Cystic fibrosis is a inherited disease which effects one's breathing. Thick mucus forms in the body and leads to breathing problems, lung disease and pancreatic issues. As of now, there is no cure. Kalydeco is the first treatment to attack the underlying causes of the disease and not just the symptoms.
"The study is ongoing and complete data, including statistical analysis for all patient groups, will be available in mid-2012," the company said in a press release.
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