Wyeth pushes forward for development of methylnaltrexone

Wyeth has announced it intends to further the development of methylnaltrexone, a Progenics drug that has been the subject of a development and marketing agreement between the two companies.

Methylnaltrexone is designed to treat postoperative ileus – a disorder characterised by a lack of bowel movement and constipation following abdominal surgery, exacerbated by the use of opioid drugs.

The investigational drug comes in three dosage types – subcutaneous and oral forms for opioid-induced constipation, and intravenous for the treatment of post-operative ileus.

A Progenics phase II trial by of the drug showed that it accelerates recovery time in patients who have undergone segmental colostomies. Wyeth said it intends to begin phase III trials with Progenics in autumn this year on a global scale.

Furthermore, the companies have announced they have applied to the FDA to undertake a fast track designation for methylnaltrexone.

Neil Slatkin, a study investigator and director of supportive care, pain and palliative medicine at the City of Hope Hospital in Duarte, California, remarked: “In order to provide the most compassionate care possible, health care professionals want to focus on aggressive pain management without the worry of opioid-induced bowel dysfunction.”

Wyeth paid Progenics an upfront $60 million (33 million pounds) in December 2005, with an additional $365.5 million to be paid dependent on the achievement of certain milestones.

Bernard Poussot, president of Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, concluded: “Methylnaltrexone fits well within our current portfolio and represents a broad treatment platform with multiple products intended to address unmet medical needs in opioid-induced bowel disorders.”

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