IP2016 is in preclinical development against depression. IP2016 has shown positive effects in animal models of prolonged and neuropathic pain. Depression and pain share biological pathways and neurotransmitters. With IP2016, the ambition is to treat both areas simultaneously to improve results.
Major depression disorder also known as depression is a severe disorder with serious consequences. Some treatments are available; however, in clinical trials the majority of the patients fail to achieve a full therapeutic response. Furthermore, impairment from the disorder continues essentially unchanged in patients who are treated but do not fully remit. Clearly, alternatives are needed to manage this common clinical condition. Combination studies with SSRI´s and Bupropion improved treatment in antidepressant-resistant patients (reduction in the number & severity of symptoms), and reduced side-effects/adverse events (including reduction in sexual dysfunction).
IP2016 also worked well in rat models of persistent and neuropathic pain. Depression in patients with pain is associated with more pain complaints and greater impairment. Depression and pain share biological pathways and neurotransmitters, which has implications for the treatment of both concurrently. Treatment of depression and pain simultaneously is necessary for improved outcomes.
*Both IP2016 and IP2017 have been included in a screening agreement with the US National Institute on Drug Abuse to evaluate their anti-addictive properties. Specifically, NIDA’s Addiction Treatment Discovery Program will work closely with the company to determine the effects of IP2016 and IP2017 on cocaine- and methamphetamine-related behaviors using established preclinical rodent models through its contract resources.