Addex Therapeutics reported that its GABAB positive allosteric modulator (PAM) produced robust anti‑tussive activity in a non‑human primate chronic cough model, showing a significant reduction in citric acid–induced cough frequency. The data indicate efficacy comparable to the clinically used agent baclofen and superior to other tested compounds such as nalbuphine, codeine, and a P2X3 inhibitor.
The primate study also demonstrated a wide therapeutic margin and better tolerability than baclofen, with no signs of tolerance after sub‑chronic treatment. These findings suggest the candidate could be administered once daily and may offer improved patient adherence compared with existing therapies that often suffer from dose‑limiting side effects.
"These important data in non‑human primates together with previously reported guinea pig data demonstrates the therapeutic potential of our highly selective, orally available GABAB PAM. Chronic cough is a difficult to treat disease in need of novel therapeutics with the efficacy of baclofen, which is used off‑label in these patients, but without the dose limiting side effects. Based on the data generated to date, we believe our GABAB PAM drug candidate has this therapeutic profile and the potential to be a once daily treatment for patients suffering from chronic cough," said CEO Tim Dyer.
"Our own GABAB PAM cough program is also advancing through preclinical studies and is scheduled to start IND enabling studies later this year," Dyer added.
The robust preclinical results strengthen the case for advancing the candidate into IND‑enabling studies, potentially unlocking milestone payments and royalties under the partnership with Indivior for substance use disorders. The data position Addex to expand its pipeline beyond neurological indications and address a large unmet need in chronic cough, which could enhance the company’s valuation and future revenue streams.
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