AtaiBeckley Announces Positive Topline Data from the Phase 2b Open-Label Extension Study of BPL-003, Supporting Safety and Efficacy of a Second Dose in Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression

Core Insights - Atai Beckley N.V. announced positive topline results from the open-label extension study of its Phase 2b clinical trial of BPL-003 for treatment-resistant depression, showing that a 12 mg dose provided additional rapid and sustained antidepressant effects for up to eight weeks [1][4][7] Company Overview - Atai Beckley is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing effective mental health treatments, formed through the merger of atai Life Sciences and Beckley Psytech Limited in November 2025 [13] - The company is advancing BPL-003, a proprietary intranasal formulation of mebufotenin benzoate, which has received Breakthrough Therapy designation from the FDA for treatment-resistant depression [12][13] Clinical Trial Details - The Phase 2b clinical trial consisted of a core study and an open-label extension study, with 126 patients completing the core study and 107 continuing into the extension study [2][4] - The core study evaluated the efficacy and safety of single doses of BPL-003 (0.3 mg, 8 mg, or 12 mg), while the extension study assessed the effects of a second 12 mg dose administered eight weeks later [2][4] Efficacy Findings - A 12 mg dose of BPL-003 administered eight weeks after an initial dose resulted in a 63% response rate and a 48% remission rate at Week 8 of the open-label extension study [4][8] - Patients who received an 8 mg dose in the core study showed a mean reduction in MADRS score of 22.3 points at Day 57 in the extension study, with an 81% responder rate and a 67% remission rate [8] Safety Profile - The safety and tolerability profile of BPL-003 was consistent with prior studies, with most adverse events being mild or moderate and transient [8] - Common side effects included nausea, headache, and anxiety, with one serious drug-related adverse event reported but resolved with monitoring [8] Next Steps - The company plans to meet with the FDA for an End-of-Phase 2 meeting to discuss the Phase 3 clinical development program, with guidance expected in Q1 2026 and trial initiation anticipated in Q2 2026 [9][10]