An experimental drug to treat Wilson’s disease has achieved its primary endpoint in a phase three trial, AstraZeneca reports.

The pharmaceutical company said its medicine for the rare genetic disease that causes accumulation of copper in the body was three times more successful in helping remove deposits from tissues than standard care.

The experimental oral medicine ALXN1840 taken once-daily could provide a more-targeted option for patients who are typically given chelation treatments such as penicillamine or trientine, and/or zinc therapy, the company statement said.

Copper build-up can cause neurological and psychiatric symptoms, such as personality changes, tremors and difficulty in walking, swallowing or talking as well as liver disease.