Biogen Idec and Cardiokine Partner to Develop Lixivaptan, a Novel Vasopressin Antagonist

Lixivaptan to enter Phase III clinical trial in 2007 in heart failure patients

05-Jul-2007

Biogen Idec and Cardiokine, Inc., a privately-held specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the development of drugs for the treatment of heart failure and related indications, announced the signing of an agreement to jointly develop lixivaptan, an oral compound expected to enter a Phase III clinical trial this year for the potential treatment of hyponatremia in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF).

Lixivaptan is a selective V2 vasopressin receptor antagonist that, in clinical trials, has demonstrated promising activity in treating hyponatremia, an imbalance of sodium and water in the body. Lixivaptan works by causing water to be excreted from the kidney, without affecting sodium or other electrolytes. Particularly in heart failure patients, hyponatremia is associated with volume overload, a key symptom leading to hospitalization of these patients. In addition, hyponatremia is an important feature of other disorders including liver cirrhosis and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), and can contribute to morbidity and negative outcomes.

Under terms of the agreement, Cardiokine will receive a $50 million upfront payment and up to $170 million in additional milestone payments for successful development and global commercialization of lixivaptan, as well as royalties on commercial sales. Biogen Idec will be responsible for the global commercialization of lixivaptan and Cardiokine will have an option for limited co-promotion in the United States (U.S.). The agreement is expected to become effective in the third quarter of 2007, and is subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions and customary approvals.

https://www.bionity.com/en/news/65926/biogen-idec-and-cardiokine-partner-to-develop-lixivaptan-a-novel-vasopressin-antagonist.html