Phase II for flu

A Phase II trial of Biota's long acting neuraminidase inhibitor (LANI), CS8958, for influenza has begun in Japan.

Biota is working with Japanese pharmaceutical company Daiichi-Sankyo to develop the drug.

Two trials are planned, one in Japan and the other elsewhere in Asia. The studies aim to test the effectiveness of CS8958 in adult patients who have naturally acquired influenza A or B.

The double blind trials will examine the safety and efficacy of CS8958 and assist in selecting the best doses for treating influenza.

CS8958 is an inhaled long acting neuraminidase inhibitor and offers higher potency and a lower dose than zanamivir and oseltamivir, the currently available products.

CS8958 offers the potential for once only treatment and once weekly prophylactic protection from influenza, offering an advantage over existing inhaled and oral therapies.

Source: Biota