Wyeth, Progenics reveal initial post-op drug results

First trial results of oral and intravenous formulas of Relistor (methylnaltrexone bromide) show that oral administration of the drug is the more effective of the two to tackle post-operative intestinal problems, Wyeth and Progenics Pharmaceuticals have announced.

The oral version of the drug was undergoing its phase II trial, while the intravenous formulation was in its phase III.

When given orally for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation, Relistor prompted positive activity but the other formulation, for post-operative ileus (or temporary arrest of intestinal peristalsis), did not meet primary or secondary endpoints.

Paul J Maddon, founder, chief executive and chief science officer of Progenics, said: “We are pleased by the preliminary findings of this oral formulation.

“We await results within the coming months from a second, ongoing phase II study involving the oral formulation of Relistor.”

The Relistor injection was approved in April in the US following the worldwide agreement between the two companies for its joint development and commercialisation for the treatment of opioid-induced side effects.