Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. ACOR presented data from a phase I study on rHIgM22, a remyelinating antibody being evaluated for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Data was presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology.
The placebo-controlled, single-dose, escalating phase I study (n=72) was conducted in clinically stable MS patients to evaluate the dose tolerability over a period of six months after treatment. Results showed that rHIgM22 was well-tolerated in each of the five doses tested with no dose-limiting toxicities at any of the dosage levels. In addition to this, data showed indications of the candidate entering the cerebrospinal fluid (central nervous system).
Based on encouraging data from this study, Acorda intends to move rHIgM22 into a second study in patients who experience acute relapses. The study is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2015.
We note that Acorda already has a presence in the MS market in the form of Ampyra, which is approved for the improvement of walking in patients suffering from MS. Ampyra is available outside the U.S. under the trade name Fampyra. Acorda has a licensing agreement with Biogen BIIB for Fampyra in markets outside the U.S.
Acorda is currently working on expanding Ampyra’s label into additional indications. Last December, the company initiated a phase III study on a twice-daily formulation of Ampyra for the treatment of post-stroke walking deficits.
Acorda currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector are Biogen, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc. AVEO and Horizon Pharma plc HZNP. All three hold a Zack Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Be the first to comment