Bayer Stroke Drug Hits Trial Goals, Analyst Sees Positive Data Readout From Bristol Myers' Milvexian After Failed Study

Core Insights - Bayer AG's Phase 3 OCEANIC-STROKE study results for asundexian show significant efficacy in reducing ischemic stroke risk compared to placebo [1][2] - The study met primary efficacy and safety endpoints, with no increase in major bleeding risk observed [2][4] - The positive results for asundexian may have implications for Bristol Myers Squibb's milvexian program, especially after the recent halt of the LIBREXIA-ACS trial [5] Efficacy and Safety - Asundexian 50 mg once daily significantly reduced ischemic stroke risk in patients post non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke or high-risk transient ischemic attack [2] - No increase in ISTH major bleeding risk was noted with asundexian compared to placebo when combined with antiplatelet therapy [4] Industry Implications - The positive read-through from Bayer's trial is seen as beneficial for Bristol Myers Squibb's ongoing milvexian program, which faced setbacks [5] - Questions remain regarding the optimal dosing of milvexian in ongoing studies, particularly in relation to the doses used in the LIBREXIA-STROKE and LIBREXIA-AF studies [6] Comparative Analysis - Bayer's asundexian achieved approximately 91% factor XIa inhibition at the 50 mg QD dose, while Bristol Myers has not disclosed the inhibition levels for milvexian [7] - Previous studies indicated that asundexian was inferior to Eliquis despite high factor XIa inhibition, raising concerns about dosing adequacy [8] Market Reaction - Following the news, Bristol Myers Squibb's stock rose by 4.57% to $48.37 [9]