Addrenex initiates Ph II ADX415 study

Atlanta, USA-based Sciele Pharma, a subsidiary of Japan's Shionogi, says that partner Addrenex Pharmaceuticals has initiated a Phase II clinical trial with ADX415 for the treatment of hypertension. This is a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study that will involve 80 patients. ADX415 is a novel, patented, centrally-acting, alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist, specific to alpha-2 receptors.

Moise Khayrallah, chief executive of Addrenex, said: "while the adrenergic system is best known for its role in triggering the 'fight or flight' response, it is actually a wide-ranging and varied regulator of multiple processes in the body, including blood pressure. We are truly excited about the potential of ADX415, an adrenergic regulator that is designed to target specifically the alpha-2 receptor pathway. We believe this therapeutic area may have a meaningful impact on patients' health and wellbeing."

On July 1, Sciele announced an exclusive agreement with Addrenex to develop and commercialize ADX415, under the terms of which it has the worldwide marketing rights for the product.