Novartis' Ianalumab Shows Continued Benefits In Two-Year Sjögren's Study

Amgen presented phase 3 trial results for dazodalibep in Sjögren's disease, showing both dosing schedules reduced systemic disease activity more than placebo. Novartis awaits an FDA decision on rival ianalumab. Amgen's second phase 3 trial, OASIZ-303, is ongoing. No FDA-approved therapies exist for Sjögren's, an autoimmune disease.

Lupus patients are enrolling in experimental CAR-T trials despite recent deaths in trials by Novartis (3) and Bristol Myers Squibb (1). Doctors note the potential benefits outweigh risks for severe lupus cases. Novartis and Bristol Myers have paused trials but plan to resume. CAR-T is also being tested for other autoimmune diseases, with about 150 trials underway. Cabaletta Bio's therapy shows promise with a traditional manufacturing process.

Novartis reported 108-week data on ianalumab at ACR Convergence 2026, showing improved disease activity in Sjögren’s Syndrome patients. Continuous 300 mg monthly treatment group saw ESSDAI score improvement of -7.5 points. Low disease activity rates rose to 65.1% in continuous-treatment group and 60.9% in placebo-switch group. Novartis seeks FDA decision in 2026.

Novartis reported that its Sjögren’s disease drug candidate, ianalumab, showed sustained improvements in systemic disease activity through week 108 of treatment, according to the NEPTUNUS extension study. Patients taking a 300 mg monthly dose experienced a reduction in disease activity.

Novartis' experimental drug pelacarsen reduced lipoprotein(a) by 78% in a Phase 3 trial but failed to lower heart attack or stroke risk. The study involved 8,322 patients with elevated Lp(a) and prior cardiovascular events. Despite the significant reduction, the drug did not outperform a placebo. Novartis is halting development of the drug, while other companies continue testing Lp(a) treatments.

Novartis presented long-term data from the NEPTUNUS extension study of ianalumab for Sjögren’s disease at ACR 2026. Continuous treatment showed sustained improvements in disease activity and salivary flow, with no new safety issues. Patients switching from placebo to ianalumab also saw benefits. The FDA decision is expected this year.