Alkermes' orexin agonist ALKS 7290 shows promise in early-stage ADHD trial

Alkermes reported results from a Phase 1 study of its orexin agonist ALKS 7290, a drug class previously explored for rare sleep disorders.

The trial enrolled adults with moderate to severe ADHD, as measured by a median baseline score of 39 on the Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale.

After two weeks, participants receiving the highest dose of 50 mg experienced a 19-point drop in the rating scale, moving their symptoms into the mild range, and the drug was reported as well tolerated.

These early findings suggest orexin agonism could be a new therapeutic avenue for ADHD, though further studies will be needed to confirm efficacy and safety.