ALKS Down Despite Positive Top-Line Data From Narcolepsy Study

Core Insights - Alkermes (ALKS) announced positive top-line data from the phase II Vibrance-1 study for its oral orexin 2 receptor agonist, alixorexton, aimed at treating narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) [1][8] - The study demonstrated statistically significant improvements in wakefulness and excessive daytime sleepiness compared to placebo [2][3] - The 6 mg dose of alixorexton was the only one to achieve statistical significance in reducing weekly cataplexy rates, which may have negatively impacted investor sentiment [4] Study Results - Alixorexton treatment across all doses showed a dose-dependent improvement in wakefulness on the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT), the primary endpoint of the study [2] - Statistically significant improvements in excessive daytime sleepiness were observed at week six on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, a key secondary endpoint [3] - The 6 mg dose was the only one to achieve statistical significance in improving weekly cataplexy rates, another key secondary endpoint [4] Safety and Tolerability - Treatment with alixorexton was generally safe and well-tolerated across all doses [5] Future Development Plans - Alkermes plans to initiate a global phase III trial for alixorexton in patients with NT1, building on the success of the Vibrance-1 study [9][10] - Alixorexton is also being studied for narcolepsy type 2 (NT2) and idiopathic hypersomnia (IH), with ongoing phase II studies [11][12] Competitive Landscape - Upon potential approval, alixorexton may face competition from Axsome's Sunosi (solriamfetol), which is already marketed for narcolepsy treatment [13] - Other drugs from Jazz Pharmaceuticals, such as Xyrem and Xywav, also hold significant market share in the sleep disorder segment [14]