Alkermes reports promising Phase 1b results for orexin agonist ALKS 7290 in ADHD

Alkermes presented data from a Phase 1b study that evaluated its orexin-based compound ALKS 7290 in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The trial enrolled 50 participants who received either placebo or the drug at 20 mg or 50 mg daily for two weeks.

Across the active groups, scores on the 54-point Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale fell by an average of 14 points for the 20 mg dose and 19 points for the 50 mg dose. On the Clinical Global Impressions scale, average severity ratings improved from four and five at baseline to one and two, respectively.

Alkermes CEO Blair Jackson said the results demonstrate the first use of an orexin agonist beyond sleep disorders and provide a basis for expanding the development program.