Patent covers 5-HT1A receptor agonist and the treatment of disorders associated with serotonin action.
Epix Pharmaceuticals was issued a patent that covers the class of selective 5-HT1A binding compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and specific compounds, including PRX-00023. Epix is developing PRX-00023 for the treatment of depression.
“This patent is further validation of Epix’ ability to synthesize and develop novel drugs that modulate promising GPCR drug targets, such as the 5-HT1A receptor,” says Michael G. Kauffman, M.D., Ph.D., CEO.
With PRX-00023, which entered clinical trials in February 2004, the company is targeting a commercial opportunity for a selective, once-daily agonist of the specific GPCR known as 5-HT1A that avoids the sexual dysfunction and sleep disorders associated with SSRIs, lacks the addictive and sedative effects of the benzodiazepines, and does not have the slow onset, short half-life, and side effects of a chemical class of 5-HT1A agonists called azapirones. “We look forward to continuing to advance the clinical development of PRX-00023 into a Phase IIb clinical trial in major depression in the first half of this year,” states Dr. Kauffman.
In December 2006, Epix entered a strategic worldwide collaboration with GlaxoSmithKline for four of its GPCR targets, including PRX-03140 for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
