WYETH SCHIZOPHRENIA DRUG SHOWS SYMPTOM IMPROVEMENT, FEWER SIDE EFFECTS

Clinical trial results for Wyeth's and Solvay's bifeprunox show that the drug maintains stability in patients with stable schizophrenia and improves symptoms in patients with acute schizophrenia, Wyeth announced.

Bifeprunox may also cause less weight gain and fewer metabolic side effects, such as diabetes, than other schizophrenia drugs, the company said Dec. 6. Weight gain and metabolic disturbances are common side effects of many antipsychotic medications and can cause patients to stop taking their medications. Bifeprunox showed a good weight profile in short- and long-term studies versus placebo and other active drugs, according to the company.

In a six-month study, bifeprunox prevented deterioration in patients with stable schizophrenia better than placebo, Wyeth said. In several six-week trials, the drug improved symptoms in patients with acute schizophrenia. Results showed that patients taking bifeprunox in all trials lost weight and saw an improvement in their lipid profiles, the company said.

Wyeth and Solvay agreed to collaborate on the new schizophrenia treatment in 2004, and submitted a new drug application to the FDA for bifeprunox in October of this year.