Organon to continue developing asenapine

Following a decision by Organon and Pfizer to end their collaboration on the development of asenapine, Organon has announced that it is to continue with its development of the compound.

Asenapine is a drug candidate aimed at the treatment of patients with bipolar I disorder exhibiting schizophrenia and acute mania. Clinical trials have shown the drug to be safe and tolerable, with phase III clinical trials giving positive results for its efficacy in treating schizophrenia.

Toon Wilderbeek, president of Organon, said: “We are pleased to now have the opportunity to pursue a go-to-market strategy for asenapine which is more closely aligned with our planning and positioning for this product candidate.”

He added that the company would in time evaluate the necessity of a partnership to assist in the commercialisation of the drug in certain regions.

Organon reported that it was disappointed by the withdrawal of Pfizer from the development agreement, a decision made for commercial reasons, but that it appreciated the input of that company in developing asenapine.

The companies first signed a global agreement for the development and commercialisation of the drug candidate in October 2003, with the agreement being terminated earlier this week.