FDA panel to discuss Acurox

FDA will hold a joint panel meeting on April 22 to discuss an NDA from Acura Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:ACUR) for Acurox oxycodone/niacin to treat moderate to severe pain. Last year, FDA issued a complete response letter for Acurox that raised issues about its potential abuse deterrent benefits. The Anesthetic and Life Support Drugs and Drug Safety and Risk Management advisory committees will participate in the meeting. King Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NYSE:KG) has exclusive rights to the oral immediate-release tablet that uses Aversion abuse-deterrent technology from Acura under a 2007 deal. Acura was up $0.39 to $5.45 on Tuesday. ...