TransPharma Medical Ltd. reports “promising results of its phase I clinical trials demonstrating the safety and pharmacokinetic profile of its ViaDerm-hPTH (1-34) product for the treatment of osteoporosis.” hPTH (1-34) is a synthetic version of the molecule that is the basis for Eli Lilly & Co.’s (NYSE:LLY) Forteo drug, which is delivered by injection. The trial also examined whether ViaDerm was effective in delivering hPTH (1-34) to the bloodstream.
The trial included 48 patients to evaluate the safety and tolerability of ascending multiple doses of the drug and compare it with Forteo delivered by injection. The trial was somewhat more informative than usual Phase I trials, which normally give only indications about effectiveness, because hPTH (1-34) is a tested drug. The only question was the effectiveness of the new delivery system.
ViaDerm is the size of a pen, which sends a small electrical pulse into the skin that opens micro-channels through which a drug is delivered.
TransPharma CEO Dr. Daphna Heffetz said, “We plan to begin Phase II trials, and to submit the product for advanced trials before seeking a suitable partner for a joint market launch.” She has previously said that she thought the first product would reach the market in 2010.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on July 11, 2007
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