Fortress Biotech(US:FBIO) Globenewswire·2025-10-21 12:30Core Viewpoint - Urica Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Fortress Biotech, has initiated two Phase 3 clinical trials for dotinurad, a new oral treatment for gout, which could address significant unmet medical needs in this area [1][3]. Clinical Trials - The RUBY study will evaluate dotinurad's safety and efficacy in approximately 500 patients with hyperuricemia associated with gout, with participants receiving the drug once daily for up to 64 weeks [4]. - The TOPAZ study will assess dotinurad in about 250 patients with tophaceous gout, with a treatment duration of up to 76 weeks [5]. Company Developments - Fortress Biotech's Executive Chairman highlighted the initiation of these trials as a major milestone, building on recent successes including two FDA approvals and a significant acquisition [3]. - Fortress received approximately $28 million upfront from the acquisition of Checkpoint Therapeutics by Sun Pharma, with potential future payments and royalties [3]. Market Context - Gout is characterized by painful inflammation due to excess uric acid, and there is a notable treatment gap for patients who do not respond to first-line therapies [6]. - Current treatment options in the U.S. and E.U. are limited, indicating a critical need for new therapies like dotinurad [6]. Company Overview - Fortress Biotech focuses on acquiring and advancing biopharmaceutical assets to enhance shareholder value through various revenue streams [7]. - The company has a diverse portfolio, including eight marketed products and multiple development programs across therapeutic areas such as oncology and rare diseases [8].