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This Haiti-Born Doctor Built A $6 Billion Business Developing Drugs For Depression And Alzheimer’s
Forbes· 2025-10-01 10:30
Core Insights - Axsome Therapeutics focuses on developing treatments for brain disorders, with three drugs currently on the market and five in the pipeline, potentially addressing the needs of 150 million Americans suffering from such conditions [1][3][4] - The company reported a revenue of $495 million for the 12 months ending in June, marking a 70% increase from the previous year, although it remains unprofitable with a net loss of $247 million [3][4] - Axsome's market capitalization stands at $6.1 billion, and the company aims for peak sales of $16.5 billion from its current drug portfolio, contingent on successfully navigating FDA approvals for five new drugs by 2028 [4][13] Company Overview - Founded in 2012 by Herriot Tabuteau, Axsome Therapeutics was established with a unique approach to drug development, focusing on brain disorders and self-funding rather than relying on venture capital [1][2][5] - The company has evolved from humble beginnings in a small office to a significant player in the biotech sector, with a notable drug portfolio and innovative strategies for clinical trials [3][7] Financial Performance - Axsome's revenue growth of 70% year-over-year highlights its increasing market presence, although the company has yet to achieve profitability [3][4] - The stock price has increased by 35% over the past year, outperforming the Nasdaq Biotech Index, which only rose by 1% during the same period [12] Drug Development and Pipeline - The approval of Auvelity for major depressive disorder in August 2022 significantly boosted Axsome's market valuation, with shares rising 65% in a week [9] - Auvelity is projected to generate $500 million in sales this year and is expected to become a blockbuster drug, with potential annual revenues exceeding $1 billion [10][13] - Axsome is also working on a drug for Alzheimer's agitation, which could provide a safer alternative to current antipsychotic treatments, despite mixed results in Phase III trials [12][13] Strategic Acquisitions - In 2022, Axsome acquired Sunosi for $53 million, which treats excessive daytime sleepiness, and later sold its rights for $66 million, demonstrating effective financial management [11]
Can Auvelity Drive Axsome's Growth Through the Rest of 2025?
ZACKS· 2025-09-30 14:46
Core Insights - Axsome Therapeutics' lead drug, Auvelity, has shown strong sales performance since its approval for major depressive disorder, contributing significantly to the company's revenue [1] Sales Performance - Auvelity recorded sales of $215.9 million in the first half of 2025, marking an 82.3% increase year-over-year, driven by higher unit sales volume [2][9] - The company anticipates a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 42.7% for Auvelity sales over the next three years [2] Product Development and Expansion - Auvelity is undergoing label expansion studies for other CNS disorders, including Alzheimer's disease agitation and smoking cessation, with an sNDA expected to be filed in Q3 2025 [3] - A pivotal phase II/III study for smoking cessation is planned to commence in Q4 2025 [3] - The approval of Auvelity for additional indications is expected to further enhance sales and growth prospects [4] Additional Products - Axsome's narcolepsy drug, Sunosi, has also contributed to revenue, with sales increasing by 25.6% year-over-year in H1 2025 [5][9] - The recent launch of Symbravo for migraine treatment, approved in January 2025, is expected to strengthen Axsome's market presence [5] Competitive Landscape - Axsome faces significant competition in the CNS disorder market, particularly from Acadia Pharmaceuticals' Nuplazid, which generated $328.2 million in sales, a 14% increase year-over-year [6][7] - Sunosi may encounter competition from Jazz Pharmaceuticals' sleep disorder drugs, while Symbravo will face established migraine treatments from Pfizer and AbbVie [8]
Prediction: These 2 Under-the-Radar Stocks Could Beat the Market in the Next 5 Years
The Motley Fool· 2025-09-30 08:10
Group 1: Axsome Therapeutics - Axsome Therapeutics is a mid-cap biotech company with three products on the market: Auvelity, Symbravo, and Sunosi, driving strong revenue growth, with a 72% year-over-year increase to $150 million in Q2 [3][4] - The launch of Symbravo in June presents a significant growth opportunity, targeting a market of 39 million migraine patients in the U.S., where over 70% have inadequate responses to current treatments [4][5] - Auvelity shows promise in treating agitation associated with Alzheimer's disease, with a potential market of 7 million patients, and is on track to achieve blockbuster status [5][6] - The company is advancing its pipeline with AXS-12 for narcolepsy and other late-stage trials, positioning itself for continued revenue growth and market outperformance [6] Group 2: Exelixis - Exelixis specializes in oncology, known for its drug Cabometyx, which treats liver and kidney cancers and continues to drive revenue growth despite a reported 11% drop in total revenue to $568.3 million due to lower collaboration revenue [7][8] - Net product revenue for Exelixis increased by 19% year-over-year to $520 million, with Cabometyx expected to maintain strong sales through early 2030, fending off generic competition [8][9] - The company is focused on developing cancer therapies for high unmet needs, with its candidate zanzalintinib showing promise in metastatic colorectal cancer, which could address a significant treatment gap [9][10] - Exelixis has additional candidates in its pipeline, and strong clinical progress alongside Cabometyx's revenue growth is expected to yield strong returns through the end of the decade [10]
Axsome Therapeutics, Inc. (AXSM) Presents at TD Cowen's 5th Annual Novel Mechanisms in Neuropsychiatry & Epilepsy Summit Transcript
Seeking Alpha· 2025-09-18 05:53
Group 1 - The event is the Fifth Annual TD Cowen Novel Mechanisms in Neuropsychiatry and Epilepsy Summit, featuring Axsome Therapeutics [1] - Axsome Therapeutics has made significant progress in both commercial and development aspects over the past year [2] - The company is expected to provide insights into future expectations for investors, particularly looking towards the end of 2025 and early 2026 [2] Group 2 - In Q2, Axsome Therapeutics reported net sales of $150 million, with Auvelity contributing $120 million and Sunosi $30 million [4] - The recent launch of SYMBRAVO generated approximately $400,000 in its first 2.5 weeks [4]
Axsome Therapeutics (NasdaqGM:AXSM) FY Conference Transcript
2025-09-17 13:42
Axsome Therapeutics FY Conference Summary Company Overview - **Company**: Axsome Therapeutics (NasdaqGM:AXSM) - **Event**: Fifth Annual TD Cowen Novel Mechanisms in Neuropsychiatry and Epilepsy Summit - **Date**: September 17, 2025 Key Points Commercial Performance - **Q2 Net Sales**: $150 million, with Auvelity contributing $120 million and Sanofi $30 million [3][4] - **Symbravo Launch**: Generated approximately $400,000 in revenue within two and a half weeks of launch [3] - **MBRXs Growth**: Increased from 2,000 to 2,500 per week due to the expansion of the sales force [4][15] - **Coverage Expansion**: Added 28 million additional lives covered, enhancing patient access and maintaining net pricing [4][21] - **Direct-to-Consumer Campaign**: Launched a national TV advertising campaign for Auvelity, expected to boost awareness and prescriptions [5][19] Product Utilization - **Auvelity Utilization**: Approximately 50% of prescriptions are for first-line or first-switch patients, indicating strong market penetration [11] - **Monotherapy Use**: Over 50% of Auvelity prescriptions are for monotherapy, suggesting a reduction in polypharmacy [12] Research and Development - **AXS-05 for Alzheimer's**: sNDA filing expected in Q3 2025, with ongoing trials and a focus on agitation in Alzheimer's patients [7][24] - **Upcoming NDA Submission**: AXS-12 for narcolepsy planned for Q4 2025 [8] - **Clinical Trials**: Multiple ongoing trials for various conditions, including ADHD, major depressive disorder, and fibromyalgia [9] Market Potential - **Alzheimer's Market Size**: Estimated at 7 million patients, with around 5 million experiencing agitation, presenting a significant market opportunity [32] - **Peak Sales Estimates**: Projected peak sales for AXS-05 in the range of $1.5 to $3 billion [32] Strategic Outlook - **Sales Force Expansion**: Plans to increase the sales force significantly in 2026, focusing on primary care and long-term care centers [15][16] - **Market Dynamics**: Anticipated growth in prescriptions post-Labor Day as patient compliance improves [20] - **Business Development**: While monitoring market opportunities, the company is currently satisfied with its existing pipeline and acquisitions [39] Additional Insights - **KOL Feedback**: Positive feedback from Key Opinion Leaders regarding the safety and tolerability profile of AXS-05, especially in elderly patients [29] - **Regulatory Engagement**: Consistent dialogue with the FDA regarding trial requirements and product development strategies [24][25] Conclusion Axsome Therapeutics is positioned for growth with strong commercial performance, a robust pipeline, and strategic plans for market expansion. The company is optimistic about its future prospects, particularly in the Alzheimer's market and ongoing product launches.
Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM) 2025 Conference Transcript
2025-09-04 18:02
Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM) Conference Call Summary Company Overview - Axsome Therapeutics is a CNS-focused company specializing in brain health with three in-market products and a deep pipeline of novel product candidates [3][4] Financial Performance - Q2 total net sales reached $150 million, with $120 million from Auvelity, indicating a trajectory towards a half a billion annual run rate [4] - Cash on hand exceeds $300 million, positioning the company towards cash flow positivity [4] - Auvelity's market access expanded by 28 million lives as of July 1, enhancing growth potential [5] Product Pipeline and Development - Axsome V for Alzheimer's disease agitation is on track for sNDA submission in Q3, supported by three positive trials and additional safety data [6][8] - NDA submission for Axsome 12 (reboxetine for narcolepsy) is anticipated in Q4, with positive trial results across multiple endpoints [20][21] - Four Phase 3 programs for Sunosi are underway, with trials for Axsome V in smoking cessation and Axsome 14 in fibromyalgia planned [6] Commercial Strategy - Continued growth is expected for Auvelity and Symbravo, with a focus on expanding the sales force and targeting long-term care settings [6][10] - The company plans to invest in direct-to-consumer (DTC) marketing to drive new prescriptions [27] - Auvelity has a peak sales estimate of $1 billion to $3 billion, with current annualized sales at $500 million, representing only 0.16% of the total antidepressant market [26][30] Product Differentiation - Auvelity is positioned as an oral NMDA receptor antagonist, distinct from atypical antipsychotics, with a favorable safety and tolerability profile [18][19] - Axsome 12 is differentiated by its efficacy in treating cataplexy and improvements in sleepiness and cognition, with a distinct tolerability profile compared to existing therapies [20][21] - Symbravo is designed to address efficacy gaps in acute migraine treatment, with early feedback indicating robust efficacy and tolerability [33][34] Market Access and Pricing - Gross net pricing remains stable in the mid-50% range, with potential for improvement as market access increases [32] - The company anticipates higher gross and net discounts in the migraine treatment space, aligning with industry norms [43] Future Outlook - Axsome Therapeutics is optimistic about its growth trajectory, with significant developments expected in the coming quarters, including product launches and market expansions [6][46]
Axsome Therapeutics(AXSM) - 2025 FY - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-09-03 20:47
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2, the company achieved a milestone of $150 million in net sales for the first time, with $120 million from Avelity, indicating a trajectory towards $500 million in annualized sales [5] - The company reported a strong balance sheet with over $300 million in cash, positioning it for cash flow positivity [5][6] - The gross-to-net discount for Q2 was in the mid-50s range, showing slight improvement from Q1, and is expected to remain stable for the second half of the year [46][47] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Avelity for major depressive disorder (MDD) is tracking close to $500 million in sales, with peak sales potential estimated between $1 billion to $3 billion [30][31] - Sunosi generated $30 million in sales, with two-thirds of scripts coming from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) [62] - The newly launched product, Symbravo, recognized approximately $400,000 in sales during its initial weeks [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has expanded its covered lives for Avelity to 83%, with a national direct-to-consumer campaign planned to further increase brand awareness [31][32] - The Medicare channel has shown significant growth, with Rexulti scripts growing over 40% year-over-year, indicating a robust market for Alzheimer's disease agitation treatments [14][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its product portfolio with a robust pipeline, including potential indications for Alzheimer's disease agitation, smoking cessation, ADHD, and binge eating disorder [4][63] - The strategy includes optimizing the sales force by integrating Alzheimer's disease agitation into the existing MDD sales team and potentially expanding into long-term care [27][28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the fundamentals of the company, stating that the current environment is favorable for growth [4] - The company is focused on top-line growth while also improving cash flow, with a significant reduction in losses year-over-year [84][85] Other Important Information - The company is in dialogue with the FDA regarding the submission package for Avelity in Alzheimer's disease agitation, with a focus on providing robust clinical data [18][19] - The patent for Symbravo extends to 2041, providing a strong competitive position in the market [60][61] Q&A Session Summary Question: Are you still on track to file an sNDA for Alzheimer's disease agitation in Q3? - Yes, the company is on track to file [6] Question: What is the commercial opportunity in Alzheimer's disease agitation? - There is a substantial unmet need, with potential peak sales estimated between $1 billion to $3 billion [8][9] Question: How is the sales force structured for Avelity and Alzheimer's disease agitation? - The sales force has expanded to approximately 300 reps, with plans to integrate Alzheimer's disease agitation into the existing MDD team [27][28] Question: What is the expected gross-to-net discount at steady state? - The company expects to maintain a mid-50s gross-to-net discount for the remainder of the year [46][47] Question: What are the goals for the launch of Symbravo? - The focus is on gathering clinician feedback and improving access for patients [49][51] Question: What is the peak sales potential for ADHD indications? - The peak sales potential for ADHD is estimated between $1 billion to $3 billion [71]
Axsome Therapeutics(AXSM) - 2025 FY - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-09-03 20:45
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2, Axsome Therapeutics achieved a milestone of $150 million in net sales for the first time, with $120 million from Avelity and $30 million from Sunosi, indicating strong growth potential [5] - The company has a robust balance sheet with over $300 million in cash, positioning it for cash flow positivity [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Avelity is on track for annualized sales of half a billion, with significant growth observed since its launch [5][37] - Sunosi generated $30 million in sales, with a focus on expanding its market presence in obstructive sleep apnea and narcolepsy [68] - The launch of Symbravo for migraine treatment is in early stages, with positive feedback on its efficacy and tolerability [54][56] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The market for Alzheimer's disease agitation shows substantial unmet need, with potential peak sales for Avelity estimated between $1 billion to $3 billion [11] - Avelity is currently capturing about 0.16% of the total market share, indicating significant room for growth [50] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its sales force and enhancing its commercialization strategy, particularly for Avelity and the upcoming Alzheimer's indication [33][41] - Axsome is exploring additional indications for Sunosi, including ADHD and MDD associated with excessive daytime sleepiness, which could drive future growth [69][78] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth trajectory of Avelity, citing a strong sales force and increased market access as key drivers [38][41] - The company aims to prioritize top-line growth while also improving cash flow, with a significant reduction in losses year-over-year [90] Other Important Information - Axsome has a patent portfolio for Symbravo extending to 2041, providing a competitive edge in the market [65][66] - The company is in dialogue with the FDA regarding its clinical trial designs and submission strategies for various products, ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations [21][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Are you still on track to file an sNDA for Alzheimer's disease agitation in Q3? - Yes, the company is on track to file [6][7] Question: What is the commercial opportunity in Alzheimer's agitation? - There is substantial unmet need, with potential peak sales estimated at $1 billion to $3 billion [11] Question: How is the sales force being optimized for Avelity? - The sales force has expanded to approximately 300 reps, with plans to integrate Alzheimer's agitation into their strategy [33][34] Question: What are the goals for the launch of Symbravo? - The focus is on gathering clinician feedback and improving access for patients [54][56] Question: What is the expected gross to net discount for Avelity? - The company expects to maintain a mid-50s range for gross to net discounting [52][53] Question: What is the potential market for ADHD indications? - The peak sales potential for ADHD is estimated at $1 billion to $3 billion [77]
Why Is Axsome (AXSM) Up 19.2% Since Last Earnings Report?
ZACKS· 2025-09-03 16:31
Core Viewpoint - Axsome Therapeutics has shown a positive trend in its stock performance, with a 19.2% increase over the past month, outperforming the S&P 500, leading to speculation about the sustainability of this trend ahead of its next earnings release [1]. Financial Performance - In Q2 2025, Axsome reported an adjusted loss of $0.97 per share, which was narrower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of $1.00, and a significant improvement from a loss of $1.67 per share in the same quarter last year [2]. - Total revenues surged 72% year over year to $150 million, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $140 million, primarily driven by strong sales of Auvelity [3]. - Product revenues reached $148.9 million in Q2, compared to $86.5 million in the previous year, with royalty revenues contributing an additional $1.1 million [4]. Product Sales Breakdown - Auvelity sales amounted to $119.6 million, reflecting an 84% year-over-year increase and a 24% sequential increase, with approximately 192,000 prescriptions recorded, marking a 15% sequential and 56% year-over-year increase [5]. - Sunosi's net product sales were $30 million, up 35% from the previous year, with total prescriptions growing 13% year over year to 50,000 [6]. - Symbravo, launched in June, generated $0.4 million in sales during its partial quarter [6]. Expense Analysis - Research and development expenses were $49.5 million, down 0.8% from the previous year, attributed to the completion of label expansion studies [7]. - Selling, general, and administrative expenses totaled $130.3 million, up 25.8% year over year, driven by increased commercial activities for Auvelity and ongoing launch activities for Symbravo [8]. Cash Position - As of June 30, 2025, Axsome had cash and cash equivalents of $303 million, slightly up from $300.9 million as of March 31, 2025 [8]. Market Outlook - Estimates for Axsome have been trending downward, indicating a potential shift in market sentiment, with a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) suggesting an expectation of in-line returns in the coming months [12]. Industry Comparison - Axsome operates within the Zacks Medical - Biomedical and Genetics industry, where Regeneron reported revenues of $3.68 billion in its last quarter, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 3.6% [13].
Axsome Shares Up 20% in a Month: How Should You Play the Stock?
ZACKS· 2025-08-29 17:31
Core Viewpoint - Axsome Therapeutics has shown strong stock performance, with a 20.2% increase over the past month, significantly outperforming the industry and the S&P 500 [1][7]. Sales Performance - The lead drug, Auvelity, has generated $215.9 million in sales during the first half of 2025, marking an 82.3% year-over-year increase, primarily due to higher unit sales volume [3][7]. - Auvelity is expected to maintain a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 42.7% over the next three years [3]. Drug Development and Pipeline - Axsome is expanding Auvelity's indications for other CNS disorders, including Alzheimer's disease agitation and smoking cessation, with plans to submit a supplemental new drug application (sNDA) later in Q3 2025 [4]. - The company is also advancing its other drugs, such as Sunosi, which generated $53 million in sales in H1 2025, reflecting a 25.6% year-over-year increase [8]. - New migraine drug Symbravo was approved in January 2025 and launched in June, enhancing Axsome's market presence [9]. Competitive Landscape - Competition exists in the CNS market, with companies like Acadia Pharmaceuticals developing similar treatments [11]. - Sunosi may face competition from Jazz Pharmaceuticals' sleep disorder drugs, which have a strong market share [12]. Regulatory Challenges - Axsome received a Refusal to File letter from the FDA regarding its NDA for AXS-14, which could delay potential approval and market entry [13]. Valuation Metrics - Axsome's shares are trading at a price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 12.16, significantly higher than the industry average of 2.12, although below its five-year mean of 14.93 [14]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 loss per share has widened from $3.26 to $3.41, while 2026 earnings per share estimates have decreased from $1.36 to $0.92 [16]. Conclusion - The strong sales performance of Auvelity and the progress of other drugs are positive indicators for Axsome's stock [17]. - However, competition and potential regulatory setbacks pose risks to growth prospects [17].