Japan based Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. has announced that it is working to start a Phase III clinical trial in Japan with the humanized anti-human IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody, “Actemra® Intravenous Infusion 80 mg, 200 mg, and 400 mg” [generic name: tocilizumab (genetical recombination)] in COVID-19 pneumonia.

Chugai has filed a clinical trial notification with the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency to conduct a Phase III clinical trial of Actemra for the treatment of hospitalized patients with severe COVID19 pneumonia in Japan. It is working to start enrolling as soon as possible after finalizing study details.

Roche announced to initiate a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III clinical trial (COVACTA study) globally including the U.S., Canada and Europe to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Actemra plus standard of care in hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia compared to placebo plus standard of care.