Zogenix Announces Completion of Enrollment for ZX002 Phase III Efficacy Study

Zogenix, Inc. recently announced the completion of enrollment in its pivotal Phase III efficacy study (Study 801) of ZX002. ZX002 is a novel, oral, single-entity, controlled-release formulation of hydrocodone for the treatment of moderate-to-severe pain in patients requiring around-the-clock opioid therapy for an extended period of time.

Study 801 is a randomized, 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluating ZX002 in opioid-experienced adult subjects with moderate-to-severe chronic lower back pain. The primary efficacy endpoint is the mean change in average daily pain intensity scores between ZX002 and placebo.

Initial top-line data from Study 801 and an open-label Phase III safety study (Study 802) are anticipated to be available during the second half of 2011. As previously announced, Zogenix has completed enrollment of Study 802 to evaluate overall safety of ZX002 in patients for up to 1 year.

Pending positive Phase III clinical results, Zogenix expects to submit an NDA for ZX002 with the US FDA by early 2012. If approved, ZX002 has the potential to be the first controlled-release version of hydrocodone and also the first hydrocodone product that is not combined with another analgesic. This novel formulation has the potential to address safety concerns outlined by the FDA regarding the use of certain combination prescription pain products that contain acetaminophen, which can cause liver toxicity at high doses over time. In January 2011, the FDA announced that manufacturers of certain prescription pain products containing acetaminophen will be required to reformulate or discontinue making these products within 3 years.

“After completing enrollment in both Phase III studies, ZX002 remains positioned as the first potential single-entity, controlled-release hydrocodone product,” said Stephen J. Farr, PhD, President and Chief Operating Officer. “Because it does not contain acetaminophen and allows for convenient twice-daily dosing, ZX002 may fulfill a beneficial treatment option for both patients using immediate-release hydrocodone combination products on a chronic basis and an alternative for patients already using extended-release opioids for the management of their moderate-to-severe pain. We look forward to obtaining top-line safety data from Study 802 and efficacy and safety data from Study 801 during the second half of this year to support a potential NDA submission by early-2012.”