Alexza, Endo neurology, drug delivery news

Alexza reduced headcount by 52 (33%) to about 104 and terminated its deal with Endo to develop Staccato fentanyl ( AZ-003) to treat breakthrough pain. All rights to the fentanyl product delivered with Alexza's Staccato system inhaler will be returned to Alexza, which said it would not commit additional resources to the program in 2009 (see BioCentury, Jan. 7, 2008).

Alexza will focus on its lead candidate, Staccato loxapine ( AZ-004), with plans to submit an NDA in early 2010 to treat agitation in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. The company out-licensed product to Symphony Allegro Inc. (Rockville, Md.), which was formed by equity firm Symphony Capital. Alexza has an exclusive option to acquire Symphony. ...