Neurobiological Technologies, Inc. (NTI) has started enrolment of the first patients in an open-label, extended-use study of Xerecept (hCRF). This study is open to all patients who participate in one of the two ongoing blinded, Phase III trials designed to determine the dexamethasone-sparing effects of hCRF in brain tumour patients being treated for peritumoral brain edema.

This extended-use program will collect safety information and allow the treating physicians to attempt a maximum dexamethasone reduction and possible elimination altogether. Xerecept will be provided to patients until either the drug becomes commercially available or if NTI research in this indication is discontinued.

Dr. Lisa U Carr, sr. vice president and chief medical officer of NTI, said, "We are pleased to offer the extended-use of this potential dexamethasone-sparing agent to patients in all of our trials."

NTI is an emerging drug development company focused on the clinical evaluation and regulatory approval of neuroscience drugs.