ARS Pharmaceuticals Calls for Caution on Aquestive's Treatment Approval
ARS Pharmaceuticals Advocates for Safety in Approval Process
ARS Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: SPRY) has taken a proactive stance by filing a petition urging the FDA to delay the approval process for Aquestive Therapeutics Inc.'s (NASDAQ: AQST) experimental epinephrine treatment. This treatment, known as AQST-109, is being scrutinized due to significant concerns surrounding its safety and efficacy for patients experiencing anaphylaxis.
Petition Details and Concerns
The petition lodged by ARS Pharmaceuticals stresses the need for more comprehensive data before moving forward with the approval of AQST-109, a sublingually administered film branded as Anaphylm. ARS has specifically requested that if the FDA decides to approve the treatment, it should come with a boxed warning to ensure that potential cardiovascular risks are well highlighted to prescribers and patients alike.
Safety and Efficacy Debate
In its filing, ARS raised concerns that the existing clinical data may not adequately prove that AQST-109 is safe and effective for individuals facing life-threatening allergic reactions. The company has called for additional studies to be conducted, particularly focusing on the usability and pharmacology of the treatment.
Real-World Testing Recommendations
To further bolster its case, ARS Pharmaceuticals recommends the implementation of real-world safety and usability trials among allergy patients. Through such trials, ARS aims to evaluate whether AQST-109 can be reliably absorbed during severe allergic episodes. This aspect is particularly crucial given that the safety profile of the product appears uncertain in the current context.
Critical Analysis of Components
The company has also expressed the necessity for a closer examination of AQST-109's prodrug components and its metabolites during the drug's evaluation process. ARS indicated that prior formulations of epinephrine did not demonstrate the same unusual diastolic blood pressure spikes that have been observed with this particular treatment.
Pharmacokinetic Study Request
ARS has urged the FDA to conduct a pharmacokinetic study regarding the effects of repeated dosing at five-minute intervals. This step is crucial as it would help mitigate any risks associated with potential overexposure to the treatment. The company contends that moving forward with approval prior to acquiring detailed pharmacokinetic data could be seen as hasty and detrimental.
Referencing FDA Authority
In a crucial part of their argument, ARS emphasized the FDA’s existing authority under the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to delay the approval of drugs if safety is questionable. They referenced a past Complete Response Letter concerning a different drug, suggesting that the issues presented with AQST-109 require similar scrutiny due to its delivery of epinephrine at three times the minimally lethal injection dosage.
Market Implications and Current Stock Performance
Aquestive submitted its marketing application for AQST-109, receiving a PDUFA action date set for early the subsequent year. With this in mind, ARS maintains its position that until further research is performed and clear evidence of safety is established, the application for AQST-109 should be paused.
As of now, ARS Pharmaceuticals (SPRY) stock is up by 1.89%, trading at $9.98, while Aquestive stocks (AQST) have increased by 4.64%, priced at $5.41. These movements in their stock prices reflect the market's response to recent developments, including ARS's petition and the anticipated outcomes of the FDA's decisions regarding the experimental treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main concern ARS Pharmaceuticals has about AQST-109?
ARS Pharmaceuticals is primarily concerned about the safety and efficacy of AQST-109 for anaphylaxis patients, citing inadequate data to support its approval.
What studies does ARS Pharmaceuticals recommend?
ARS recommends conducting enhanced safety trials and pharmacokinetic studies to fully assess the usability and safety of AQST-109.
What potential risks does AQST-109 pose?
ARS has raised flags regarding cardiovascular complications that could arise from using AQST-109, suggesting the need for a boxed warning if approval is granted.
How has the market reacted to the news of the petition?
The stock price for ARS Pharmaceuticals has seen an increase, reflecting investor response to the regulatory scrutiny they are requesting.
What is the next step in the approval process for AQST-109?
Aquestive Therapeutics is awaiting a decision from the FDA regarding the approval of AQST-109, with a set action date approaching in the near future.
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