Neurocrine Biosciences, a leading pharmaceutical company, has announced positive topline data from its Phase 2 clinical trial of NBI-1117568 (NBI-‘568) for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults. The trial showed that a single daily dose of 20 mg NBI-‘568 led to a significant reduction in symptoms, as measured by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), after six weeks of treatment.
The 20 mg dose group experienced an average 18.2-point reduction from baseline in PANSS scores, compared to a 10.8-point reduction in the placebo group. This 7.5-point difference was statistically significant, with a p-value of 0.011. While higher doses of the drug (30, 40, and 60 mg) did not reach statistical significance, the positive results from the 20 mg dose have generated considerable optimism.
Piper Sandler, a prominent investment bank, has upgraded Neurocrine Biosciences’ stock from Neutral to Overweight, citing the promising data for NBI-‘568. The firm has set a price target of $159, reflecting a significant increase from its previous target of $131. The analysts believe that the 20 mg dose positions NBI-‘568 as a strong contender among selective muscarinic agonists, offering a potentially safer alternative to atypical antipsychotics, which are known to have side effects.
The current treatment landscape for schizophrenia often involves individualized treatment responses and frequent changes in medication. Therefore, the development of a new, effective, and potentially safer selective muscarinic agonist like NBI-‘568 could be a valuable addition to the treatment arsenal. While there is still much to be learned about the drug’s long-term efficacy and safety, the initial data suggests a promising future for NBI-‘568 in treating schizophrenia.
The positive results from the Phase 2 trial have been well-received by investors, as evidenced by the 3.64% increase in Neurocrine Biosciences’ stock price on Thursday. The company is expected to continue its research and development efforts with NBI-‘568, with hopes of moving the drug into later-stage clinical trials and ultimately seeking regulatory approval for its use in treating schizophrenia.
