Arena Pharmaceuticals initiates Phase 1b trial of APD371

Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc. has begun patient dosing in a Phase 1b multiple-ascending dose clinical trial of APD371, a selective agonist of the cannabinoid 2 (CB2) receptor.

This trial is randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled. Test subjects will be about 36 healthy adults, and the trial will assess the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of multiple-ascending doses of APD371.

A single-ascending dose trial has already taken place where 10 to 400 milligram doses were met with good tolerability.

"As with all of our other clinical-stage compounds, APD371 was internally discovered by Arena's scientists," Arena's interim Chief Executive Officer Harry Hixson Jr. said. "This is another demonstration of Arena's expertise in discovering and developing differentiated drug candidates to address unmet medical needs."

APD371 is an oral drug candidate being tested for development in a variety of indications, including pain. Because it is selective, it can offer pain relief without psychotropic effects or potential for dependence or abuse.

For more information, visit Arena's website at www.arenapharm.com.