Wyeth, Solvay say schizophrenia drug is effective

In six-week trials, bifeprunox improved symptoms in patients with acute exacerbations of schizophrenia but showed a smaller mean effect than did active references compared to placebo.

Bifeprunox also showed a favorable weight and metabolic profile in both short and long-term studies. Weight gain and metabolic disturbances are common and important side effects of many antipsychotic medications, which can cause some patients with schizophrenia to stop taking their medication.

“These are important new findings because some obstacles, including side effects associated with current treatments, can derail the optimal long-term care of patients with schizophrenia,” says Daniel Casey, professor, Psychiatry and Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University.

In March 2004, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals and Solvay Pharmaceuticals agreed to co-develop and co-commercialize bifeprunox and two other compounds, which are in earlier stages of development, as treatments for schizophrenia and other psychiatric conditions.