The US Patent and Trademark office (USPTO) has granted key patent to Zalicus Inc. covering novel formulations of its product candidate Z160. The key patent number 8,409,560, entitled “Solid Dispersion Formulations and Methods of Use Thereof,” provides broad coverage for a range of novel Z160 pharmaceutical compositions and methods of using these compositions in the treatment of pain.

“We are delighted to have been issued this important patent extending Z160’s patent protection and exclusivity into 2032,” commented Mark HN Corrigan, MD, president and CEO of Zalicus. “Solid dispersion technology is well-characterized and has been utilized in a number of commercial and late-stage development products. Building on this knowledge, Zalicus has developed solid dispersion formulations of Z160 that have uniquely improved its bioavailability and have facilitated its advancement into two ongoing Phase 2a clinical trials in chronic neuropathic pain.”

Zalicus is currently advancing Z160, a first-in-class, oral, state-dependent, selective N-type calcium channel (Cav 2.2) blocker, through phase IIa clinical development in chronic neuropathic pain. Z160 is designed to selectively target neuronal pain signaling by modulating neurons that are undergoing high-frequency firing. Z160 has demonstrated efficacy in multiple animal models of neuropathic and inflammatory pain, suggesting that it has the potential to treat a broad range of chronic pain conditions. Additionally, clinical trials in over 200 subjects have established Z160 as a safe and well tolerated drug candidate. N-type calcium channels have been recognized as key targets in controlling pain because of their key role in transmitting pain through the spinal nerves to the brain.

Zalicus Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company that discovers and develops novel treatments for patients suffering from pain.