Research specialist Ergomed Plc (LON:ERGO) said a partner company successfully concluded a phase IIa clinical study, paving the way for a commercial collaboration on the next trial.
Denmark-based Asarina Pharma is pioneering a treatment called Sepranolone for a severe and disabling form of premenstrual syndrome, which affects 5% of women with periods.
Success in the phase IIa study, which assesses safety and potential drug side effects, paves the way to a phase IIb trial, in which Ergomed is co-investing.
Under the terms of the deal, first unveiled last November, it will also receive a stake in Asarina.
Patient recruitment will begin towards the end of the year.
“Sepranolone has the potential to become a first-in-class therapy, normalising the work and family life of women affected by this debilitating disorder,” said Ergomed’s chief executive, Dr Miroslav Reljanovic.
“The results of this study encouraged us to enter into a co-development relationship with Asarina and we look forward to working together on the next stage of development."