Roche antiviral drug reduces transmission in advanced study

Roche RHHBY announced positive topline results from a recent study of the influenza drug Xofluza.

The CENTERSTONE study was a global Phase III trial evaluating the effectiveness of a single dose of Xofluza taken within 48 hours of symptom onset in reducing transmission of influenza within households.

Xofluza is approved in several countries for the treatment of uncomplicated influenza types A and B.

Since the beginning of the year, Roche shares have risen by 9 percent, while the industry average has only grown by 24.8 percent.

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Roche’s Xolfuza reduces transmission

The CENTERSTONE trial met its primary endpoint, with data showing that a single oral dose of Xofluza taken by people with flu significantly reduced the likelihood of others in their household becoming infected with the virus.

The drug was well tolerated and no new safety signals were identified.

According to Roche, this is the first global Phase III trial to demonstrate a benefit of transmission by an antiviral agent for the treatment of a viral respiratory disease. The study was conducted with more than 4,000 participants.

These new positive data are expected to reinforce the benefits of Xofluza, which is currently approved to treat symptoms and prevent infection following viral exposure.

The CENTERSTONE study was supported in part by grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority.

Xofluza's ability to reduce the spread of infection could help limit transmission within communities and societies. Its mechanism of action has been shown to be effective against a wide range of influenza viruses, including activity in vitro against oseltamivir-resistant strains and avian strains (H7N9, H5N1) in nonclinical studies.

Roche's broad portfolio

In addition to Xofluza, Roche has another flu drug, Tamiflu, in its portfolio.

Roche's performance so far this year has been impressive, thanks to strong demand for its medicines and tests. Vabysmo (eye diseases) was the biggest growth driver, with Phesgo (breast cancer), Ocrevus (multiple sclerosis), Polivy (blood cancer) and Evrysdi (spinal muscular atrophy) the other key sales drivers.

The eye care drug Vabysmo continues its outstanding performance. The drug has taken market share from Regeneron's market-leading drug Eylea. Positive data from additional studies bode well for the drug.

At the same time, Roche is trying to diversify and expand its portfolio as sales of older medicines decline due to competition from biosimilars.

The story continues

Roche’s Zacks Rank and Important Tips

Roche currently has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold).

Some better-rated stocks in the large-cap pharmaceutical industry are Eli Lilly LLY, Bayer BAYRY and Pfizer PFE. While LLY currently has a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), BAYRY and PFE each have a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Eli Lilly's 2024 earnings estimates have increased from $15.77 to $16.49 per share over the past 30 days. For 2025, the earnings estimate has increased from $22.79 to $23.97 over the same period. Year-to-date, Lilly shares have risen 58.4%.

BAYRY's 2024 earnings estimates have increased from $1.35 to $1.38 per share over the past 60 days. For 2025, the earnings estimate has increased from $1.42 to $1.44 over the same period.

PFE's 2024 earnings estimates have increased from $2.39 to $2.62 per share over the past 60 days. For 2025, the earnings estimate has increased from $2.75 to $2.85 over the same period.

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