Posted by Ant-Rock on October 1, 2008, at 21:03:05
I thought this was pretty interesting...
Rexahn wins approval to initiate Phase II study of depression drug
US-based biopharmaceutical company Rexahn Pharmaceuticals has received the FDA approval to begin Phase II trials for Serdaxin, for the treatment of major depressive disorders.The Serdaxin Phase II trial is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel study for the treatment of major depressive disorders. It is a multi-center trial with preliminary data in humans expected in the second half of 2009.
According to the company, Serdaxin is being developed as an orally administered, extended release tablet for the treatment of depression and anxiety. It is a dual enhancer of serotonin and dopamine neurotransmitters. In preclinical studies, Serdaxin was shown to significantly improve an individual's negative mood state and the loss of positive mood state, with the onset of action taking less than two days.
This trial represents the third Phase II study currently in progress at Rexahn Pharmaceuticals. The company's cancer compound, Archexin, and its drug for treating erectile dysfunction, Zoraxel, are already in Phase II trials at multiple locations in the US.
Chang Ahn, CEO of Rexahn Pharmaceuticals, said: "We are very excited to reach this milestone with Serdaxin, which has the potential to become a new market leader for depression, with faster onset of action and broader therapeutic coverage than the present standard of care. Serdaxin also has an excellent safety profile in humans without the negative side effects of the current available treatment, which could increase patient compliance."
Source: Datamonitor
*Also on this site, Agomelatine was mentioned as being marketed for mild to moderate depression, or as an adjuct to other meds for MDD.
Anthony
poster:Ant-Rock
thread:855184
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080926/msgs/855184.html