Zalicus commences Synavive SYNERGY Phase 2b clinical trial for rheumatoid arthritis

Zalicus Inc. (NASDAQ: ZLCS) a biopharmaceutical company that discovers and develops novel treatments for patients suffering from pain and immuno-inflammatory diseases today announced the initiation of the SYNERGY trial, a Phase 2b clinical trial evaluating Synavive™, a low-dose glucocorticoid with the potential for amplified immuno-inflammatory benefits, in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Top-line results of the clinical trial are expected to be available in the second half of 2012. In addition, Zalicus has drawn an additional $8.5 million from its $20.0 million secured credit facility with Oxford Finance to fund Synavive advancement.

“In addition, we will seek to determine if the efficacy of Synavive is comparable to a commonly prescribed 5 mg dose of the glucocorticoid Prednisone.”

"RA is an attractive initial indication for Synavive as there is unmet need for a safer glucocorticoid; one that provides the amplified anti-inflammatory activity of a higher dose but without the associated dose-related side effects. There is already a high prevalence of glucocorticoid use in RA for chronic maintenance therapy, as well as significant demand for less expensive, easier to access options to biologic therapy," said Mark H.N. Corrigan, MD, President and CEO of Zalicus. "Data from a prior Phase 2a clinical trial with Synavive demonstrated encouraging preliminary signs of activity in RA patients and we look forward to further exploring its potential in this indication and reporting top-line SYNERGY results next summer."

Source Zalicus Inc.