Jefferies: Update On Healthcare

Jefferies say, “The participating KOLs opined that bleeding, rather than efficacy is the more important endpoint in the chronic indications of VTE and stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (SPAF). We expect that this will be the focus of physicians when assessing data from the EINSTEIN-DVT (Xarelto) and AVERROES (apixaban) studies at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) congress on August 31st.” “The KOLs opined that without the need for Lovenox, Xarelto would have an advantage in the clinic over Pradaxa for recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE). Based on the RECOVER trial design, Pradaxa requires initial combination use of Lovenox, whereas EINSTEIN-DVT was based on the use of Xarelto monotherapy,” the analysts mention. Jefferies adds, “Stating that the data safety monitoring board (DSMB) is likely to have halted AVERROES early because of a clear separation on efficacy and comparable safety versus aspirin, they expressed a positive view on the upcoming presentation at the ESC meeting. An optimistic view of the success of ARISTOTLE in terms of safety was also expressed, given that the DSMB allowed the study to continue following interim assessment….Our KOLs believe that many physicians are uncomfortable with using warfarin. Therefore, positive AVERROES data followed by approval in warfarin-intolerant/ inappropriate patients could give apixaban a significant commercial advantage over other agents in SPAF.” More Analyst Ratings here