Apricus Biosciences announces reformulation of Rituxan enables rectal delivery of biologics

Apricus Biosciences ("Apricus Bio," formerly NexMed, Inc.) (Nasdaq: APRI), backed by a revenue generating CRO business and seeking to leverage its multi-route NexACT^® drug delivery technology and internal pipeline through out-licensing arrangements and partnerships, today announced results from a pre-clinical pharmacokinetic study showing the ability of NexACT to enable rectal delivery of biologics, such as human antibodies. Specifically, data from the study showed that rectal delivery of Rituxan^®, formulated with NexACT, yielded similar blood levels of the antibody, as compared to delivery via subcutaneous route.

Rituxan is currently marketed by Genentech and Biogen IDEC. The drug is prescribed to treat Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and is delivered either subcutaneously or via three cycles of intravenous infusions in a hospital setting.

Commenting on today's news, Bassam Damaj, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Apricus Bio, stated, "The results of this early stage study are highly encouraging. This is the only rectal delivery technology that we are aware of that can deliver systemic, fully humanized antibodies in levels comparable to those obtained via the subcutaneous delivery route. These pre-clinical results further demonstrate the versatility and potential of the NexACT technology as a multi-route delivery vehicle. A successful reformulation of Rituxan via rectal administration could thereby provide patients the benefit of avoiding painful intravenous infusions and risks of systemic infection. It could also offer the potential of at-home administration."