STAT+: Despite Novo drug’s failure, cardiologists say they will still pursue anti-inflammatories

CHICAGO — A recent clinical trial, known as ZEUS, conducted by Novo Nordisk revealed that an experimental drug aimed at reducing inflammation was unsuccessful in preventing serious heart events in patients with severe illness. The drug, ziltivekimab, a monoclonal antibody, effectively lowered levels of the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6).

However, this reduction in IL-6 levels did not result in a decrease in heart attacks, strokes, or deaths among patients compared to those taking a placebo. Due to the disappointing results, Novo Nordisk discontinued two additional trials of the drug, HERMES and ATHENA, after a data monitoring committee concluded that they were unlikely to yield positive outcomes.

The full findings of the ZEUS study were unveiled at the American Heart Association's scientific sessions on Saturday and published concurrently in the New England Journal of Medicine.