[April 24, 2013] Asmacure initiates Phase I/II asthma trial Tweet Apr 24, 2013 (Datamonitor via COMTEX) -- Asmacure Ltee, a biopharmaceutical company, has initiated a Phase I/II clinical trial of its lead compound, ASM-024, in a dry powder for inhalation, or DPI, formulation. ASM-024 has a multi-functional mechanism of action with nicotinic and muscarinic effects and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, bronchoprotection and smooth muscle relaxation in preclinical asthma models. Asmacure dosed volunteers in the first clinical trial with ASM-024 in the dry powder for inhalation (DPI) formulation which was developed to deliver the compound with a more optimal dose and greater lung deposition. This clinical trial has a single-ascending dose and repeat administration Phases and bridges to a Phase II study in moderate asthmatics. The study is being conducted in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada with Dr Louis-Philippe Boulet as the principal investigator for the Phase II portion in the moderate asthma population. "With its anti-inflammatory, bronchoprotection and smooth muscle relaxation effects shown in preclinical asthma models and the results from our Phase II program with our solution formulation, ASM-024 shows potential as a new treatment option for individuals with asthma," said Yvon Cormier, MD, founder and chief medical officer. "The novel mechanism of action could prove beneficial for patients with moderate to severe asthma and COPD where the dual nicotinic and muscarinic effects could provide added benefit." "We are pleased to be bridging from our ASM-024 solution clinical program into clinical studies with our preferred DPI formulation in moderate asthma patients," said Martin Driscoll, CEO. "With the growing need for adjunctive treatments in the effort to better control moderate to severe asthma, we are hopeful the novel mechanism of ASM-024 will provide clinicians and patients with a new adjunctive option. We also look forward to the progression of the ASM-024 DPI into a Phase II COPD trial later this summer." http://www.datamonitor.com Republication or redistribution, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without prior written consent. Datamonitor shall not be liable for errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]