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news.A phase II test of DOV Pharmaceutical's treatment for depression, DOV 216303, has produced results that suggest some efficacy in the reduction of depression as well as confirming the solid safety profile of the drug.
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DOV 216303 is known as a triple reuptake inhibitor, meaning that it inhibits reuptake of the three neurotransmitters, most closely linked to depression. This novel combination of properties in a single antidepressant could provide a breakthrough in the treatment of depression.
Based upon preclinical studies, triple reuptake inhibitors have potential utility in treating a wide variety of central nervous system disorders including depression and obesity.
In August 2004, DOV sublicensed the compound to Merck for the treatment of depression, anxiety and substance abuse. The trial was conducted by DOV before the company licensed the compound to Merck.
The clinical trial was a safety, efficacy and tolerability study with 67 patients, which compared DOV 216303 with citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Patients who completed two weeks of treatment in both the DOV 216303 and citalopram groups demonstrated reductions of more than 40% from baseline in the total HAM-D scores measuring depression.
“These Phase II clinical trial data strengthen our belief that our triple reuptake inhibitor program has the potential to provide therapeutic benefit in the field of depression,” said Dr Warren Stern, DOV’s senior vice president of drug development.