XTL looking to future after drug fails key trial

The USA's XTL Biopharmaceuticals says that its serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor bicifadine for the treatment of diabetic neuropathic pain has failed to meet its endpoints in top-line results from a Phase IIb trial.

The study's objective was to compare the efficacy of two doses of bicifadine against placebo in reducing pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. The drug failed to meet the primary endpoint of a reduction in pain score and also did not achieve key secondary goals.

Chief executive Ron Bentsur said: "we are all very disappointed with the results of the study. We will devote the next few days to further analyze the data and decide on the appropriate course of action for the bicifadine program, and for the company."