Flex Pharma to cut two trials, reduce headcount and explore merger options

14-Jun-2018 - Last updated on 14-Jun-2018 at 13:53 GMT

(Image: Getty/Tashatuvango)

Oral tolerability concerns have prompted the US biotech to close Ph II clinical trial investigations of FLX-787 in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT).

“Recent observations of oral intolerability at the current dose and formulation, in a subset of patients, in both studies, indicate that more formulation and dose-ranging studies are required, which is challenging for the Company based upon our current resources,” said CEO Bill McVicar in a statement.

The firm will continue its investigation of FLX-787 in patients with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).

In a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing, Flex Pharma also outlined its intention to reduce headcount and explore the possibility of a sale or merger: “…The company plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 60%, with the majority of the reduction in personnel expected to be completed by June 30, 2018.”

The firm anticipates the restructure to cost between $800k (€676k) and $1.1m.

In addition, the filing states that Flex Pharma’s “board and management team have initiated a process to explore a range of strategic alternatives for enhancing stockholder value, including the potential sale or merger of the company.”

Flex Pharma did not respond to a request for comment.

Earlier this year, Takeda Pharmaceuticals also announced its intention to target amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through a nucleic acid-focused collaboration with Wave Life Sciences.