What's Happening?
Soligenix, Inc. has announced positive results from a Phase 2a trial of SGX945 (dusquetide) for treating Behçet's Disease, an inflammatory disorder affecting blood vessels. The study, published in Rheumatology
(Oxford), evaluated the drug's efficacy in controlling oral ulcers, a common symptom of the disease. The trial showed beneficial effects in 7 out of 8 patients over a 4-week treatment period, with sustained improvements observed during a 4-week follow-up. SGX945 demonstrated a 40% improvement in the primary endpoint compared to a placebo, surpassing the 37% improvement seen with the approved drug apremilast. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no adverse events reported, unlike apremilast, which is associated with side effects such as diarrhea and nausea.
Why It's Important?
Behçet's Disease is a rare and challenging condition with limited treatment options, affecting approximately 18,000 people in the U.S. The promising results of SGX945 offer hope for a more effective and tolerable treatment. The drug's ability to provide sustained relief without continuous administration could improve patients' quality of life and reduce healthcare costs associated with long-term medication use. The success of this trial supports further development and potential reformulation of SGX945 for home-based treatment, which could enhance accessibility and convenience for patients.
What's Next?
Soligenix plans to reformulate SGX945 for subcutaneous injection, similar to weight-loss drugs, to facilitate home-based treatment. The company intends to engage with health authorities to design a follow-on clinical study, aiming to expand the drug's application to other inflammatory conditions. These steps are crucial for advancing SGX945 towards regulatory approval and commercialization, potentially offering a new therapeutic option for patients with Behçet's Disease and other related disorders.
