Vistagen's PH284 Shows Promise in Alleviating Cancer Cachexia

Vistagen Announces Positive Results from Exploratory Phase 2A Study

Vistagen (Nasdaq: VTGN), a trailblazing company focused on novel neuroscience solutions, has unveiled promising findings from their exploratory Phase 2A study of PH284 aimed at combatting cancer cachexia. This condition, characterized by severe weight loss and muscle degradation, poses a significant challenge for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. PH284, an innovative pherine nasal spray, is set apart from existing therapies for appetite loss related to chronic disorders, such as cancer.

Study Overview and Methodology

The recent study involved female participants diagnosed with terminal cancer-induced cachexia. With a total of 40 subjects, the double-blind placebo-controlled trial determined the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of intranasal PH284. The protocol involved administering one spray in each nostril, four times daily prior to meals, ensuring a daily dose of 3.2µg. Initial placebo treatment was provided for the first four days, followed by randomization between PH284 and placebo from Day 5 to Day 11.

Efficacy Results

Tracking the Subjective Feeling of Hunger (SFH), participants rated their hunger levels before each meal. Remarkably, those treated with PH284 showed a significant cumulative increase in hunger levels from breakfast through dinner. By Day 7, the SFH improvement for PH284 participants was notable, indicating a 71% increase compared to their baseline, while placebo participants showed minimal improvement.

Safety and Tolerability of PH284

In terms of safety, no serious adverse effects were linked to PH284 use. While body weight variations were not significant, there was a slight average gain among the PH284 users compared to a slight loss in the placebo group. Reported adverse events were consistent across both groups and primarily attributable to the cancer itself rather than the treatment.

Understanding Cachexia

Cachexia is a multifaceted metabolic syndrome leading to progressive muscle and weight loss, often associated with chronic illnesses like cancer and AIDS. Defined by recent weight loss of at least 5% over six months combined with other symptoms such as fatigue, cachexia complicates the recovery process for individuals suffering from severe health conditions. Current estimates suggest cachexia affects up to 80% of advanced cancer patients, highlighting the urgency for effective treatment options.

The PH284 Mechanism and Future Plans

PH284 operates through a unique mechanism targeting the neural circuits responsible for appetite control. Notably, it harnesses olfactory pathways to exert rapid effects on appetite, proving its potential as a novel approach in addressing the complex issues surrounding appetite loss in chronic conditions. Management is currently evaluating the necessary steps for advancing PH284 toward the U.S. Investigational New Drug (IND) application and subsequent clinical trials.

About Vistagen's Innovative Neuroscience Approach

Pioneering neuroscience principles, Vistagen is committed to enhancing the standard of care for those with unmet medical needs. Its portfolio includes several pherines designed to activate neural pathways effectively without systemic absorption. In addition to PH284, their pipeline features AV-101, aimed at addressing various neurological disorders. Vistagen's mission centers around delivering transformative therapies for conditions like major depressive disorder and hot flashes related to menopause. Their passion for improving lives drives the development of their intranasal product candidates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vistagen's focus as a company?

Vistagen is dedicated to pioneering neuroscience to develop novel therapies that address significant unmet medical needs, particularly through their pherine products.

What condition does PH284 aim to treat?

PH284 is designed to alleviate the symptoms of cancer cachexia, specifically targeting the loss of appetite associated with chronic diseases.

What were the results of the Phase 2A study for PH284?

The study demonstrated that PH284 significantly improved the subjective feeling of hunger in participants compared to a placebo, showcasing its potential efficacy.

How is PH284 administered?

PH284 is administered as a nasal spray, with users taking four sprays daily, prior to meals.

What future steps is Vistagen considering for PH284?

Vistagen is evaluating additional studies to support a U.S. Investigational New Drug application aimed at further clinical development of PH284.

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