Phase I Trial of Intravenous Drug for Rheumatoid Arthritis Completed

AtheroGenics, Inc. has announced completion of a phase I clinical trial of AGIX-4207 I.V., and intravenously administered drug for the treatment of signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

"AGIX-4207 I.V. is being developed for rheumatoid arthritis patients in whom the rapid attainment of target drug levels in the blood is desirable," said Dr. Russell M. Medford, AtheroGenics' President. "These include patients hospitalized with flares or who are undergoing surgical procedures."

Typical treatments for rheumatoid arthritis include use of anti-inflammatory agents as well as the more powerful disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, which may affect the body's immune system. It is hoped that the AGIX-4207 I.V. will target inflammation without suppressing the immune system. (See earlier Arthritis Week story.)

Results of the phase I trial showed single infusions of the unique intravenous compound were well tolerated in healthy volunteers at all doses studied. Researchers said there were no dose-related increases in side-effects, and that the drug's safety profile was similar to a placebo.

Other sources: AtheroGenics, Inc.