US-based biotechnology company Autobahn Therapeutics has begun the AMPLIFY Phase II trial, which is assessing ABX-002 as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults.

ABX-002 is a selective thyroid hormone beta receptor agonist designed to enhance the central nervous system (CNS) benefits of thyroid hormone biology.

The drug has shown positive results in previous studies, including optimised pharmacokinetic properties and a favourable safety profile.

The AMPLIFY trial is a placebo-controlled, double-blind study involving 230 adults with moderate-to-severe depression.

It will assess the tolerability, safety, efficacy and pharmacodynamic effects of ABX-002 when used alongside existing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) treatments.

The primary measure of success will be the change from baseline on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-17 (HAMD-17) after six weeks.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Secondary endpoints of the AMPLIFY trial include evaluating changes on the HAMD-29 for atypical depression symptoms and the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale.

Autobahn Therapeutics expects to release topline data from this trial in the second half of next year.

By the end of this year, the company plans to begin another Phase II trial, which will focus on patients with bipolar disorder depression.

Autobahn executive vice-president and head of research and development Gudarz Davar said: “We are thrilled to initiate this Phase II trial of ABX-002, marking a substantially evolved profile for Autobahn as a mid-stage development company progressing multiple clinical development candidates.

“The clinical data we’ve generated with ABX-002 support its promise as a brain-penetrating, centrally active thyromimetic with favourable safety, and give us greater confidence in its potential as a game-changing treatment for depression, especially for patients who remain underserved by today’s treatment options.”

Earlier this year, Autobahn secured $100 of funding to launch two Phase II clinical trials of ABX-002 to treat MDD and bipolar disorder depression.