Drug for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency fails key trial

By Reuters Staff

(Reuters) - Israel-based drugmaker Kamada Ltd said its experimental drug failed in a key trial to treat an inherited condition that raises the risk of lung and liver disease.

The hereditary disorder, called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, is characterized by low levels of the protein alpha-1 antitrypsin found in the blood.

The deficiency predisposes individuals to several conditions, including lung, liver disease and sometimes panniculitis - a skin condition.

The trial was testing the inhaled drug, AAT, against a placebo in 168 patients with the disorder.

Early data showed the treatment was not more effective than the placebo.

The company said it planned to release detailed results of the study in the third quarter.

Kamada is also evaluating the treatment for use in cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis and diabetes.