Lundbeck has initiated phase I clinical studies with Lu AA37096 in order to investigate safety, tolerability and the pharmacokinetic profile of the drug in humans. Lu AA37096 has been discovered based on findings with the unique mechanism of action of escitalopram (Cipralex®) but incorporates effects on a number of additional targets in the brain. Lu AA37096 has shown very convincing effects in animal models of mood disorders as well as in pain models.
"Focus at Lundbeck Research is to discover innovative compounds that address unmet needs for patients. Lu AA37096 is an example of a new generation of compounds with a great potential within mood disorders and other indications for which preclinical research has demonstrated significant efficacy," says Peter Høngaard Andersen, Head of Research at Lundbeck.
At the same time Lundbeck has decided to discontinue further development of Lu AA44608 in clinical phase I for the potential treatment of mood disorders.
The content of this release have no influence on the Lundbeck Group's financial result for 2007 being presented on 4 March 2008. On the same occasion Lundbeck will present the expectations for the financial result for 2008.
About Lundbeck
H. Lundbeck A/S is an international pharmaceutical company engaged in the research and development, production, marketing and sale of drugs for the treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders. In 2006, the company's revenue was DKK 9.2 billion (approximately EUR 1.2 billion or USD 1.6 billion). The number of employees is approximately 5,300 globally. For further information, please visit www.lundbeck.com.