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Harmony Biosciences Announces Initiation of First-In-Human Study With Potential Best-In-Class Orexin 2 Receptor Agonist (BP1.15205) for Central Disorders of Hypersomnolence
Businesswire· 2025-11-19 13:05
Core Insights - Harmony Biosciences has initiated a Phase 1 clinical trial for BP1.15205, a potential best-in-class orexin 2 receptor agonist aimed at treating central disorders of hypersomnolence, including narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia [1][2] - The trial will evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of BP1.15205, with topline data expected in 2026 [1][2] - The drug has shown high potency and selectivity in preclinical studies, with a favorable safety profile and potential for once-daily dosing [1][2] Company Overview - Harmony Biosciences is focused on developing innovative therapies for rare neurological diseases, emphasizing a commitment to patients with unmet medical needs [6] - The company was established in 2017 and is headquartered in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania [6] Product Development - BP1.15205 is part of Harmony's orexin program, which aims to expand its sleep-wake franchise and provide additional treatment options for patients with narcolepsy and hypersomnolence disorders [3] - The Phase 1 trial is being conducted by Bioprojet Pharma in the European Union, with Harmony holding an exclusive licensing agreement for development and commercialization in the U.S. and Latin America [3] Market Context - Narcolepsy affects approximately 170,000 Americans, characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy, with a significant impact on daily functioning [4] - Idiopathic hypersomnia is another debilitating disorder marked by excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate sleep, affecting patients' cognitive functions [5]
Alkermes (NasdaqGS:ALKS) M&A Announcement Transcript
2025-10-22 13:02
Summary of Alkermes Investor Call on Acquisition of Avadel Pharmaceuticals Company and Industry - **Company**: Alkermes (NasdaqGS:ALKS) - **Acquisition Target**: Avadel Pharmaceuticals - **Industry**: Sleep Medicine and Pharmaceuticals Core Points and Arguments 1. **Acquisition Announcement**: Alkermes has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Avadel Pharmaceuticals in an all-cash transaction, expected to be immediately accretive upon closing [4][15]. 2. **Strategic Importance**: The acquisition is seen as strategic, allowing Alkermes to gain a patented, FDA-approved product, Lumryz, which addresses significant unmet needs in the sleep medicine market [4][6]. 3. **Market Positioning**: The acquisition positions Alkermes as a key player in the sleep medicine market, particularly in anticipation of the launch of ALKS 2680 (Elixer Extant) [4][9]. 4. **Financial Aspects**: Alkermes will acquire Avadel for $18.50 per share, with a potential additional cash payment of $1.50 per share contingent on FDA approval for Lumryz in idiopathic hypersomnia [13][14]. 5. **Growth Potential**: Lumryz is projected to generate net sales of $265 million to $275 million in 2025, significantly enhancing Alkermes' revenue and profitability [11]. 6. **Patient Base**: As of June 30, 2023, there were approximately 3,100 patients on Lumryz therapy, with an estimated 50,000 oxybate-eligible patients in the U.S., indicating a robust growth trajectory [8][10]. 7. **Development Pipeline**: The acquisition aligns with Alkermes' development pipeline, which includes ALKS 2680 and other candidates, reinforcing its commitment to neuroscience and rare diseases [10][11]. 8. **Commercial Infrastructure**: Avadel's established commercial infrastructure will facilitate the launch of ALKS 2680, avoiding the costs associated with building a new commercial team from scratch [9][16]. 9. **Financial Strength**: Alkermes ended the third quarter with $1.14 billion in cash and no debt, indicating a strong financial position to support the acquisition [16][17]. 10. **Market Dynamics**: The market for sleep medicine is expected to grow, with new medicines entering the space, and the once-at-bedtime oxybate category is anticipated to maintain its position despite increased competition [24][39]. Other Important Content 1. **Regulatory Considerations**: The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and shareholder approval from Avadel, with expectations to close in the first quarter of 2026 [15][17]. 2. **Market Strategy**: Alkermes plans to leverage its existing capabilities and infrastructure to support the growth of Lumryz and the launch of ALKS 2680, enhancing its market presence [10][57]. 3. **Sales Force Evaluation**: The existing sales force of Avadel is deemed sufficient for current operations, with potential adjustments as the market evolves [77]. 4. **Contingent Value Rights**: The deal includes a contingent value right for Avadel shareholders, reflecting Alkermes' confidence in Lumryz's future performance [13][68]. 5. **Long-term Outlook**: The overall treated population for narcolepsy is expected to grow, which could benefit both Lumryz and ALKS 2680, enhancing the market for both products [55][39]. This summary encapsulates the key points discussed during the investor call regarding Alkermes' acquisition of Avadel Pharmaceuticals, highlighting the strategic, financial, and market implications of the transaction.