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New Hope for Depression: Drug Shows Promise
24 Jul
Summary
- Xanamem demonstrated antidepressant activity in difficult-to-treat depression.
- Antidepressant benefit from Xanamem strengthened over time, peaking at week 10.
- The drug is also being developed as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease.
Actinogen Medical's lead drug candidate, Xanamem, has shown promising results in a Phase 2 trial for major depressive disorder. Published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, the study revealed that Xanamem demonstrated clinically meaningful antidepressant activity in patients experiencing difficult-to-treat depression with cognitive impairment.
The randomized, double-blind trial involved 165 participants. While most continued their existing antidepressant, Xanamem showed a statistically significant antidepressant benefit compared to placebo, which was strongest at week 10. This delayed improvement aligns with the expected reversal of chronic cortisol-related effects.
While Xanamem did not show a cognitive benefit over placebo, the study authors concluded it may represent a novel antidepressant worthy of further investigation. The drug's safety and tolerability were also confirmed in the trial.
Actinogen Medical is primarily focused on developing Xanamem for Alzheimer's disease. The pivotal XanaMIA Phase 2b/3 study is ongoing, with topline results anticipated in November 2026. Researchers believe Xanamem's antidepressant activity could also benefit Alzheimer's patients who frequently experience depressive symptoms.
