Theratechnologies and Alza Corporation have entered into an agreement to develop a new product incorporating Alza's Macroflux skin interface technology and Theratechnologies' proprietary molecule, ThGRF (TH 9507), a growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF) analogue.

ThGRF is currently in various Phase II clinical trials for the treatment of muscle wasting observed in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hip fractures, the frail elderly, and in the treatment of sleep disorders.

"In light of the positive data from our Phase 1b clinical studies, we are optimistic about the potential impact that ThGRF may have on patients' lives," said Dr. André de Villers, President and CEO of Theratechnologies.

"Macroflux technology is a novel transdermal drug delivery method that Alza Corporation is developing for use with several transdermal delivery systems. The systems incorporate a titanium microprojection array that creates superficial pathways through the skin barrier layer to allow transportation of therapeutic proteins and vaccines, or access to the interstitial fluids for sampling. The microprojection array can be coated with drug or vaccine for bolus or short-duration administration, or it may be used in combination with a drug reservoir for continuous passive or electrotransport applications. Macroflux systems have been designed for easy, convenient application that yields reproducible delivery of pharmacologic agents.

"This agreement is a significant milestone for Alza as it represents our first collaborative effort with a biopharmaceutical company to combine the Macroflux skin interface technology system with a potential breakthrough product," said Robert Myers, Alza's senior vice president of commercial development.