teaser
Lundbeck has initiated phase II trials with the compound Lu AE58054 for the treatment of schizophrenia.
Lu AE58054 has shown positive results in a number of preclinical trials, which documented the compound’s ability to improve cognition.
The compound affects different areas of the brain from traditional antipsychotics, and so can be used to complement existing treatments. Consequently, Lundbeck expects that Lu AE58054 will improve the daily functioning of the patients, for example, improving their ability to solve practical problems in their daily lives.
Based on the positive preclinical data and positive outcomes of phase I trials in healthy individuals, Lundbeck has now launched a phase II trial with two treatment groups of 60 patients each.
The first group will receive treatment with risperidone and placebo, while the other will receive risperidone and Lu AE58054. The treatment period will run for three months.
Preliminary results are expected by the end of 2009.
“I’m very pleased that we’re able to commence trials with a novel treatment of schizophrenia, which is a severe disorder,” says Executive Vice President Anders Gersel Pedersen, Head of Drug Development at Lundbeck.
Lundbeck acquired the global rights to Lu AE58054 in connection with the acquisition of US biotech company Saegis Pharmaceuticals Inc in early 2007. Lu AE58054 is a potent and selective 5-HT6 receptor antagonist.
