Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.AERI announced positive results from a phase III study (Rocket 2) on Rhopressa, which is being evaluated for its ability in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Both the once- and twice-daily dosages of Rhopressa achieved the primary efficacy endpoint demonstrating non inferiority compared to twice-daily Timoptic (timolol). Though the twice-daily dosage generated a higher incidence of adverse events, it was found to be slightly more effective than the once-daily dosage. Safety results from the study is expected at the end of 2015 or early 2016.
The phase III study on Rhopressa will be carried out in 4 parts - Rocket 1, Rocket 2, Rocket 3, and Rocket 4. Results from Rocket 1 study was announced in Apr 2015. Rocket 3 is currently in progress and the company expects to initiate Rocket 4 study later this month.
Aerie expects to submit a New Drug Application for Rhopressa in mid-2016.
Meanwhile, Aerie continues to progress on its pipeline. Currently, the company is evaluating Roclatan, a fixed-dose combination of Rhopressa and Xalatan (latanoprost) for the treatment of patients with glaucoma. Roclatan will be studied in three phase III studies - Mercury 1, Mercury 2, and Mercury 3. Mercury 1 is expected to be initiated later this month, followed by Mercury 2 study in 2016. The company expects to commence Mercury 3 in the second half of 2016.
Aerie carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Other favorably-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Gilead Sciences Inc. GILD , Medivation, Inc. MDVN and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. REGN , each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
