VistaGen Therapeutics said that it has exercised an option to acquire an exclusive worldwide license for Pherin Pharmaceutical’s PH10 intranasal steroid, which is in Phase 2 development for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). According to the company, a Phase 2a study of PH10 conducted by MIchael Liebowitz of Columbia University demonstrated significant improvement in depressive symptoms
In September 2018, VistaGen announced that it had acquired Pherin’s PH94B aloradine nasal spray for the treatment of social anxiety disorder (SAD). At the time, the company said that it had also acquired an option to license “an additional CNS neuropsychiatry-focused product in Phase 2 development.”
Liebowitz, who is serving as a consultant to VistaGen, commented, “Depression is a pervasive mental illness and currently available treatments fall short for many individuals with the disease. Ultra-low doses of intranasal PH10, with its novel mechanism of action, rapid onset activity and excellent safety and tolerability profile demonstrated in a Phase 2a study, may represent another life-changing opportunity to address the growing unmet need among individuals suffering from MDD.”
VistaGen CEO Shawn Singh said, “We are excited to build upon the notable and steadfast efforts of Dr. Louis Monti, Dr. Liebowitz and Pherin’s entire team in developing PH10 to date. PH10 marks yet another valuable asset in our growing pipeline, with compelling data and complementary to our core focus on developing innovative rapid-onset treatments for MDD beyond ketamine with convenient administration and without debilitating or psychological side effects and safety concerns.”
Read the VistaGen Therapeutics press release.
