A new slow-release pill delivery system developed by Lyndra Therapeutics has shown promising results in reducing treatment adherence for patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. The technology, which allows a single dose of risperidone to be taken once a week instead of daily, performed well in an open-label Phase III trial.
Up to five million people in the US are affected by these debilitating conditions, making medication adherence a significant challenge. Current treatments often involve multiple pills per day, leading to high pill burdens and complex dosing schedules. The new delivery system aims to address this issue.
The study, led by Leslie Citrome, MD, involved 47 patients who completed a five-week trial with the slow-release technology. Results showed that levels of the drug remained steady over the course of a week, similar to daily immediate release risperidone. Gastrointestinal adverse events were reported, but most were mild-moderate.
Giovanni Traverso, MD, PhD, co-founder of Lyndra Therapeutics, developed the slow-release technology with his lab for over 10 years. The system’s ability to provide sustained levels of medication over a prolonged period makes it easier to ensure patients receive their medication regularly.
Further Phase III studies are planned before submitting the technology for FDA approval. If successful, the delivery system could be applied to other conditions requiring regular medication, expanding its potential impact on public health.
Source: https://www.insideprecisionmedicine.com/topics/patient-care/schizophrenia-drug-delivery-technology-shows-promise