Acrux claims success in Phase I anxiety trial

Melbourne drug delivery company Acrux has successfully completed a Phase I clinical study for its proprietary buspirone metered-dose transdermal spray (MDTS) for the treatment of anxiety.

Buspirone is an anti-anxiety drug normally administered in tablet form three times a day, with side effects including drowsiness. Although the drug is regarded as being very safe, it is not well absorbed in the oral form.

According to Dr Andrew Humberstone, director of pharmaceutical R&D at Acrux, the results of the study demonstrated that buspirone could be delivered by transdermal spray once a day, potentially without causing the drowsiness associated with the oral form of the drug.

Now the company is turning its attention to finding a partner to continue the development of the buspirone transdermal spray. As the treatment is based on an existing drug, the time to market is expected to be significantly shorter that of a new therapeutic.

"We are looking seriously for a partner to develop and commercialise the drug," said CEO Dr Igor Gonda.

Acrux has also appointed two new members to its scientific advisory board (SAB). Founder and former director William Charman, professor of pharmaceutics at the Victorian College of Pharmacy, will put his experience in drug and pharmaceutical product development to use particularly in the area of formulation development, said Gonda.

"Bill Charman made invaluable contributions to the foundations of Acrux. He retired from his position of director but we are very pleased that he will be able to continue his association with the company in the important role of a scientific advisor especially in the area of proprietary formulation development," he said.

In addition, Prof Tsuneji Nagai from Hoshi University in Japan -- a key figure in internationalising Japanese pharmaceutical research, and a world leader in drug delivery -- has joined the SAB.

"We are also greatly honoured that Professor Nagai is joining our efforts to develop valuable therapeutic products for the world's markets," said Gonda. In addition to providing advice on formulation and drug delivery, Nagai will advise the company on products suitable for the Asian market, especially Japan, which comprises around one third of the global pharmaceutical market.

"This is our first step to build our presence in Japan and the Asian markets," he said.

"Acrux is continuing with its strategy to appoint the world leaders to its SAB as we expand the areas of our core expertise."