GlaxoSmithKline says that a late-stage trial of Bosatria demonstrated its ability to effectively control a rare inflammatory ailment. Researchers were testing the drug's ability to control symptoms of hypereosinophilic syndrome, which is characterized by high numbers of eosinophils, or uncommon white blood cells. Scientists developed a combination therapy of Bosatria and a low dose of steroids, which has been the only therapy for the disease up to now. Researchers report that 85 percent of the patients taking the new therapy maintained normal levels of eosinophils for more than eight weeks, compared to 45 percent taking a placebo. And about half of the patients were able to reduce their levels of steroids during the course of the trial.
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