Galapagos NV reports the initiation of the FINCH global Phase 3 program investigating the efficacy and safety of 100 mg and 200 mg filgotinib once daily, in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patient populations, ranging from early stage to biologic-experienced patients. 

The FINCH program includes three studies with filgotinib. FINCH 1 is a 52-week, randomized, placebo- and adalimumab-controlled study in combination with methotrexate (MTX) in an expected 1,650 patients who have had inadequate response to MTX. The primary endpoint is ACR20[1] at week 12. The study will also include radiographic assessment at weeks 24 and 52.

FINCH 2 is a 24-week, randomized, placebo-controlled study in an expected 423 patients who are on conventional disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (cDMARD), and have had an inadequate response to biological treatment. The primary endpoint is ACR20 at week 12.

FINCH 3 is a 52-week, randomized study in an expected 1,200 MTX-naïve patients to study filgotinib in combination with MTX, as well as monotherapy. The primary endpoint is ACR20 at week 24. Radiographic progression will also be assessed.

“The FINCH program, led by our collaboration partner Gilead Sciences, Inc., is designed to enable a comprehensive evaluation of 100 mg and 200 mg filgotinib once daily in early stage to biologic-resistant RA patient populations,” said Piet Wigerinck, Chief Scientific Officer at Galapagos. “Preparations are well underway to also initiate studies with filgotinib in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in Q4 of this year.”