Lundbeck announces cessation of bifeprunox development

Lundbeck and Solvay Pharmaceuticals have announced the cessation of research and development activities into the latter’s bifeprunox therapy.

In a statement, the organisations explained that the compound was being studied for the treatment of schizophrenia and that the decision was reached following the evaluation of results from an interim analysis of pooled data.

Bifeprunox is a partial dopamine and serotonin 5-HT1A agonist that is designed to stabilise dopamine function in the brain.

“Efficacy data did not support pursuing the existing development strategy of stabilisation of non-acute patients with schizophrenia,” the firms said, stating that it would be “futile” to continue the studies at this stage.

Lundbeck concluded by noting that the move would have no impact on the company’s financial results for 2009.

In recent weeks, the firm announced positive headline results from a dose-finding clinical study with the major depressive disorder therapy Lu AA24530.