Predix starts phase 2 pulmonary hypertension trial

By Elaine Rigoli

Tampa, Fla., Aug. 7 - Predix Pharmaceuticals, which recently announced a definitive agreement to merge with EPIX Pharmaceuticals, has initiated a phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the short-term efficacy and safety of PRX-08066, a serotonin 5-HT2B antagonist, in patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The primary endpoint of the trial is to assess the effect of PRX-08066 compared to a placebo on systolic pulmonary artery pressure in patients following two weeks of treatment. The trial will also assess the safety and tolerability of PRX-08066 during the course of therapy.

In its recently completed phase 1b trial, adults conditioned to exercise at high altitudes who were given PRX-08066 experienced a statistically significant reduction in systolic pulmonary blood pressure during exercise-induced hypoxia, the company said in a news release.

There are currently no approved drugs to treat pulmonary hypertension associated with COPD, and based on promising data, the company said PRX-08066 may benefit patients suffering from this disease.

Predix, based in Lexington, Mass., is a pharmaceutical company.

EPIX, based in Cambridge, Mass., develops pharmaceuticals for imaging modalities.

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