The multi-centered randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, will examine the safety and efficacy of BMS 582949 at three different doses. Approximately 100 patients are expected to be enrolled in the study.
Les Browne, president and CEO said: “It is generally accepted that p38 kinase inhibitors could be effective in a range of inflammatory diseases including psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Psoriasis is an important indication to evaluate in order to rapidly achieve proof of concept for this compound. We are very pleased to see BMS-582949 advance and complement the other clinical development programs with which we are associated, especially our own phase II DARA program.”
Bristol-Myers Squibb is also currently conducting a phase I trial in Canada with a second p38 kinase inhibitor resulting from the collaborative research program.
Under the terms of the companies’ ongoing collaboration, Pharmacopeia will receive milestone payments for the p38 compounds in the program to the extent the program progresses through clinical development, and royalty payments for any product from the program that reaches the marketplace. Bristol-Myers Squibb is solely responsible for further development and commercialization of the therapeutic candidate.