Fortress Biotech and Subsidiary Urica Therapeutics Announce First Patients Dosed in Crystalys Therapeutics' Global Phase 3 Trials of Dotinurad for the Treatment of Gout

Core Insights - Urica Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Fortress Biotech, has initiated Phase 3 trials for dotinurad, a new oral treatment for gout, marking a significant advancement in its clinical development program [1][3] Group 1: 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] Group 2: Market Context - Gout is a prevalent form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid, leading to severe pain and inflammation, with a significant treatment gap for patients not responding to first-line therapies [6] - There are currently no suitable second-line treatment options available in the U.S. or E.U., highlighting a critical unmet need in the market [6] Group 3: Company Developments - Fortress Biotech has achieved significant milestones, including two FDA approvals and a substantial acquisition, enhancing its portfolio and potential revenue streams [3] - Urica holds a minority equity position in Crystalys and is entitled to a 3% royalty on future net sales of dotinurad, indicating a strategic financial interest in the drug's success [3]