Avanir Pharmaceuticals reported positive results from the Phase III evaluation of its diabetic neuropathic pain drug. The company’s shares soared 165% to open trading at $3.37.
Zenvia (dextromethorphan hydrobromide/quinidine sulfate (DMQ)) is an NMDA antagonist and sigma-1 agonist. In the trial, two doses of Zenvia, 45/30 mg DMQ and 30/30 mg DMQ, both dosed twice daily, were compared to placebo. Both treatment groups had lower pain ratings than placebo patients. The drug also showed statistically significant improvements in a number of secondary endpoints, including pain relief and pain intensity.
Zenvia is also in development for the treatment of involuntary emotional expression disorder.