Lundbeck Discontinues Development of Experimental Stroke Drug Compound

Lundbeck will cease further development of its experimental desmoteplase compound for ischemic stroke, the company announced in a press release.

Desmoteplase, a fibrin-dependent plasminogen activator, is a genetically engineered version of a clot-dissolving protein found in the saliva of the Desmodus rotundus vampire bat species. The FDA granted the compound fast-track designation for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke.

Both the DIAS-3 and DIAS-4 trials of desmoteplase indicated good safety and tolerability data, with each patient sub-group experiencing positive outcomes. Despite those promising results, Lundbeck decided to discontinue the project after determining that it was insufficiently clear how to select patients for future prospective studies, according to the press release.

Lundbeck is currently considering alternatives for the project, including potential divestiture.