In brief: Acrux, Psiron, Circadian

Acrux (ASX:ACR) has received a US$1 million milestone payment from Vivus for its estradiol transdermal spray product Evamist, currently in Phase III clinical trials to treat menopausal symptoms in the US, which was due today. Another $4 million in two more payments to Acrux will be made by Vivus once the marketing application to the US Food and Drug Administration has been filed and approved. Vivus will then pay Acrux royalties on US sales of the product, with approval to market expected in 2007.

Psiron (ASX:PSX) has received a grant of AUD$99,916 from the NSW Department of State and Regional Development for a proof of concept project into the safety and efficacy of Sorafin-AD in atopic dermatitis (eczema). The clinical trial has ceased with a final study report expected in August 2005.

Robert Klupacs, formerly the CEO of stem cell firm ES Cell International, has been appointed to the newly created position of manager, strategic developments, at Circadian Technologies (ASX:CIR). He will take up the role on August 15.