Bayer's Asundexian Shows 26% Stroke Reduction in Late-Stage Study

Core Insights - Bayer presented positive results from the late-stage OCEANIC-STROKE study for its investigational oral factor XIa inhibitor asundexian, showing significant efficacy in secondary stroke prevention [1][2][9] Group 1: Study Results - The OCEANIC-STROKE study involved 12,327 patients and demonstrated that asundexian (50 mg once daily) significantly reduced the risk of recurrent ischemic stroke by 26% compared to placebo, without increasing the risk of major bleeding [3][4][9] - The primary endpoint was the time to ischemic stroke, while the primary safety endpoint focused on major bleeding events [3] Group 2: Regulatory and Market Potential - Asundexian has received Fast Track designation from the FDA for stroke prevention, and Bayer plans to submit the study data for marketing approval, indicating strong regulatory momentum [5][9] - The drug is viewed as a potential blockbuster in a market with a high risk of recurrent strokes, which could significantly enhance Bayer's cardiovascular portfolio [5] Group 3: Cardiovascular Portfolio Development - Bayer's cardiovascular portfolio includes Kerendia, which received FDA approval for heart failure treatment in 2025, and is the only non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist approved for chronic kidney disease associated with type 2 diabetes [6][7] - The company is also advancing next-generation assets, including AB-1002 for congestive heart failure and aficamten for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, further strengthening its precision cardiology portfolio [10][11] Group 4: Financial Performance - Bayer's shares have increased by 151.9% over the past year, significantly outperforming the industry average of 14%, driven by new drug approvals and positive pipeline developments [12] - The performance of new drugs like Nubeqa and Kerendia has offset declines in Xarelto sales, indicating a robust pharmaceutical division [13]