Wyeth reveals positive bifeprunox study info

Wyeth Pharmaceuticals has revealed a positive outcome following a clinical study of the effects of bifeprunox.

The drug, which has been developed as a treatment for adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, was found to have a favourable weight and lipid profile that was similar to those found when the patient took placebo.

“Data from phase II and phase III trials suggest that, if approved, bifeprunox may be an important treatment option for stable patients with schizophrenia – particularly because of our concerns about the high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in this patient population,” said Herbert Y Meltzer, professor of psychiatry and director of the division of psychopharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Centre.

Professor Meltzer also said that if the drug is subsequently approved, it could serve as an “important alternative treatment” for adults suffering with schizophrenia over a long period of time.

The results of the study were presented at an international conference along with Solvay Pharmaceuticals and Lundbeck A/S, who were also involved in the phase II and phase III trials of bifeprunox.

Wyeth began in the 1860s when two Wyeth brothers opened a retail drugstore in the United States.