On 23 January 2023, Mankind Pharma announced its move to invest in the UK-based clinical-stage specialty pharma company Actimed Therapeutics. Actimed could effectively close its second and final tranche of seed financing through this investment. Actimed has also revealed that it is developing a lead asset, S-pindolol, for treating cancer cachexia. In context to this molecule, the company carried out the PK/PD[1] study proving that S-pindolol was successfully meeting all the pre-defined objectives. Based on this clinical achievement, Actimed is now planning Phase 2b/3 studies in cancer cachexia which is anticipated to be conducted in strategic markets.
Mankind Pharma invests in Actimed Therapeutics to support the latter’s development of treatment for cancer cachexia.
Mankind’s recent investment is believed to support Actimed’s planned clinical activities entailing the preparation for the Phase 2b/3 program for S-pindolol benzoate.
Mankind Pharma’s spokesperson has revealed that the company takes pride in its move to support the further advancement of Actimed Therapeutic’s pipeline. He further added that the company is inspired by
Actimed’s novel pipeline and recognized the significant potential of S-pindolol benzoate as a new therapeutic option for cancer cachexia. The pharma major also hopes to bring innovative new therapies to cachexia patients by working with Actimed.
Know the Key Terms
Cachexia
Cachexia, also known as wasting syndrome, is associated with advanced cancer. Cachexia is a condition of severe weight loss and muscle wasting that can occur in people with cancer 1. It is caused by a combination of factors, including cancer, its treatment, the body’s response to cancer, metabolic changes, and other factors. There is no single cause of cachexia, but it is most commonly caused by cancer, its treatment, and the body’s response to cancer. Other factors, such as metabolic changes, anemia, and malnutrition, can also cause it. Cachexia can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, as well as their ability to function and interact with others. Treatment involves a combination of nutrition, physical activity, and medications to improve appetite and reduce inflammation.
PK/PD- Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) is a field of study that focuses on the relationship between a drug’s absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (pharmacokinetics) and its effects on the body (pharmacodynamics). The goal of PK/PD is to improve the effectiveness of drugs by better understanding the interaction between the drug and its target. This can involve optimizing drug dosage, timing, and route of administration. PK/PD studies can help researchers better understand new drugs’ safety and efficacy and improve existing drugs’ use. PK/PD modeling is increasingly used in clinical trials, research, and regulatory decision-making. Important Links
Read more:
- Milestones in Cancer Research and Discovery
- Pharma News Weekly Update (Week 1-Dec’22)
- Pharma News August 2021
- Monthly Update- pharma News July 2021
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