Takeda Intends to Rapidly Initiate the First Global Phase 3 Trials of TAK-861, an Oral Orexin Agonist, in Narcolepsy Type 1 in First Half of Fiscal Year 2024

Rhea-AI Summary

Takeda announces positive topline results from a Phase 2b trial evaluating TAK-861, an oral orexin receptor 2 (OX2R) agonist, in patients with narcolepsy type 1. The trial demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in objective and subjective measures of wakefulness compared to placebo at week 8. TAK-861 was found to be generally safe and well-tolerated, with no treatment-related serious adverse events reported. Takeda plans to initiate global Phase 3 trials of TAK-861 in NT1 rapidly in the first half of its fiscal year 2024. The results have no impact on the full-year consolidated reported forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024.

Positive

• Positive topline results from a Phase 2b trial
• Statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in wakefulness
• TAK-861 found to be generally safe and well-tolerated
• Initiation of global Phase 3 trials in NT1 planned for the first half of fiscal year 2024

Negative

• No negative aspects identified in the press release

Insights

Medical Research Analyst

The announcement of successful Phase 2b trial results for TAK-861, an orexin receptor 2 (OX2R) agonist, is a significant milestone in the treatment of narcolepsy type 1 (NT1). The positive outcomes, including the achievement of primary and key secondary endpoints, suggest potential for this medication to fulfill an unmet medical need in NT1 management. This is particularly relevant considering the chronic nature of narcolepsy and its impact on patients' quality of life.

From a medical research perspective, the efficacy of TAK-861 demonstrated through statistically significant improvements in the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) is promising. These measures are critical in evaluating wakefulness in narcolepsy patients. The absence of serious adverse events and hepatotoxicity or visual disturbances further positions TAK-861 as a potentially safer alternative to existing therapies, which may influence prescribing patterns upon approval.

Market Research Analyst

The decision to proceed to Phase 3 trials for TAK-861 in NT1 patients is a strategic move for Takeda, considering the rarity of the condition and the demand for more targeted therapies. The narcolepsy treatment market is a niche but growing segment and advancements in therapy that address the underlying pathophysiology rather than just symptomatic relief can capture significant market share. The discontinuation of development for narcolepsy type 2 (NT2), however, indicates a reevaluation of the drug's efficacy or market potential in this subgroup.

While the news does not impact the fiscal forecast for Takeda, the long-term potential for revenue growth upon successful completion of Phase 3 trials and subsequent commercialization could be substantial. Investors may view this development as a positive indicator of Takeda's pipeline strength and its commitment to addressing rare diseases, potentially influencing the company's valuation and attractiveness to shareholders.

Economist

The investment in the development of TAK-861 and the progression to Phase 3 trials represent a considerable allocation of resources by Takeda. The economic implications of successful new treatments for rare diseases like narcolepsy include not only potential profits from drug sales but also the reduction in the socioeconomic burden of the disease. Improved wakefulness and reduced cataplexy rates can lead to better patient productivity and decreased healthcare utilization, contributing to broader economic benefits.

However, it is important to consider the cost of such innovative treatments and the impact on healthcare systems and payers. The pricing strategy for TAK-861, should it gain approval, will be a critical factor in its accessibility and success in the market. As the pharmaceutical industry faces increasing scrutiny over drug pricing, Takeda's approach to the valuation of TAK-861 will be closely monitored by stakeholders.

− Primary and Key Secondary Endpoints Were Met in Narcolepsy Type 1 Phase 2b Trial

− TAK-861 Was Found to be Generally Safe and Well-Tolerated

− Results Will be Presented at an Upcoming Scientific Congress

OSAKA, Japan & CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Takeda (TSE:4502/NYSE:TAK) today announced positive topline results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple dose Phase 2b trial evaluating TAK-861, an oral orexin receptor 2 (OX2R) agonist, in patients with narcolepsy type 1.

Narcolepsy is a chronic, rare neurological disorder of central hypersomnolence with significant unmet need despite multiple approved therapies. It is currently classified into two different types: narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) caused by significant loss of orexin neurons with resulting lack of orexin, and narcolepsy type 2 (NT2) where orexin levels are generally normal. Stimulating the orexin receptor 2 in NT1 patients targets the underlying pathophysiology of the disease to restore orexin signaling. Two separate Phase 2b studies were conducted in NT1 (NCT05687903) and NT2 (NCT05687916).

The NT1 trial TAK-861-2001 evaluating TAK-861 in 112 patients demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in objective and subjective measures of wakefulness compared to placebo at week 8 including on the primary endpoint Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) (p < 0.001). Improvements in key secondary endpoints including Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and Weekly Cataplexy Rate (WCR) were statistically significant and clinically meaningful, consistent with the primary endpoint. The majority of patients who completed the trial entered a long-term extension study. Based on these results, and in consultation with global health authorities, Takeda plans to initiate global Phase 3 trials of TAK-861 in NT1 rapidly in the first half of its fiscal year 2024.

At this time, Takeda does not plan to advance TAK-861 in NT2. Data are being further analyzed to determine next steps in orexin normal populations. Takeda is progressing multiple orexin agonists in patient populations with normal levels of orexin neuropeptides such as NT2 and other indications where orexin biology is implicated.

TAK-861 was generally safe and well tolerated in both trials. No treatment related serious adverse events were reported. In addition, no cases of hepatotoxicity or visual disturbances were reported in the Phase 2b trials or in the ongoing TAK-861 long-term extension trial.

“We are thrilled to announce these clear and compelling results from the TAK-861 trial in narcolepsy type 1 that allows us to rapidly initiate Phase 3 trials this year as we work to deliver a medicine to patients that could address the underlying pathophysiology of the disease,” said Sarah Sheikh M.Sc., B.M., B.Ch, MRCP, Head, Neuroscience Therapeutic Area Unit and Head, Global Development at Takeda. “Takeda thanks the patients, caregivers and investigators who participated in our orexin agonist trials. We will continue to apply our deep and growing understanding of orexin biology as we work to develop and deliver transformative treatments to people across a range of indications who could benefit from this mechanism.”

Results from both trials will be presented at an upcoming scientific congress.

Results from the Phase 2b trials have no impact on the full year consolidated reported forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024 (Fiscal Year 2023).

About Takeda

Takeda is focused on creating better health for people and a brighter future for the world. We aim to discover and deliver life-transforming treatments in our core therapeutic and business areas, including gastrointestinal and inflammation, rare diseases, plasma-derived therapies, oncology, neuroscience and vaccines. Together with our partners, we aim to improve the patient experience and advance a new frontier of treatment options through our dynamic and diverse pipeline. As a leading values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, we are guided by our commitment to patients, our people and the planet. Our employees in approximately 80 countries and regions are driven by our purpose and are grounded in the values that have defined us for more than two centuries. For more information, visit www.takeda.com.

Important Notice

For the purposes of this notice, “press release” means this document, any oral presentation, any question-and-answer session and any written or oral material discussed or distributed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (“Takeda”) regarding this release. This press release (including any oral briefing and any question-and-answer in connection with it) is not intended to, and does not constitute, represent or form part of any offer, invitation or solicitation of any offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of, any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction. No shares or other securities are being offered to the public by means of this press release. No offering of securities shall be made in the United States except pursuant to registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom. This press release is being given (together with any further information which may be provided to the recipient) on the condition that it is for use by the recipient for information purposes only (and not for the evaluation of any investment, acquisition, disposal or any other transaction). Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws. The companies in which Takeda directly and indirectly owns investments are separate entities. In this press release, “Takeda” is sometimes used for convenience where references are made to Takeda and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” are also used to refer to subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and any materials distributed in connection with this press release may contain forward-looking statements, beliefs or opinions regarding Takeda’s future business, future position and results of operations, including estimates, forecasts, targets and plans for Takeda. Without limitation, forward-looking statements often include words such as “targets”, “plans”, “believes”, “hopes”, “continues”, “expects”, “aims”, “intends”, “ensures”, “will”, “may”, “should”, “would”, “could”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “projects” or similar expressions or the negative thereof. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements: the economic circumstances surrounding Takeda’s global business, including general economic conditions in Japan and the United States; competitive pressures and developments; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; challenges inherent in new product development, including uncertainty of clinical success and decisions of regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; uncertainty of commercial success for new and existing products; manufacturing difficulties or delays; fluctuations in interest and currency exchange rates; claims or concerns regarding the safety or efficacy of marketed products or product candidates; the impact of health crises, like the novel coronavirus pandemic, on Takeda and its customers and suppliers, including foreign governments in countries in which Takeda operates, or on other facets of its business; the timing and impact of post-merger integration efforts with acquired companies; the ability to divest assets that are not core to Takeda’s operations and the timing of any such divestment(s); and other factors identified in Takeda’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and Takeda’s other reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, available on Takeda’s website at: https://www.takeda.com/investors/sec-filings/ or at www.sec.gov. Takeda does not undertake to update any of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule. Past performance is not an indicator of future results and the results or statements of Takeda in this press release may not be indicative of, and are not an estimate, forecast, guarantee or projection of Takeda’s future results.

Medical Information

This press release contains information about products that may not be available in all countries, or may be available under different trademarks, for different indications, in different dosages, or in different strengths. Nothing contained herein should be considered a solicitation, promotion or advertisement for any prescription drugs including the ones under development.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208344780/en/

Japanese Media

Yuko Yoneyama

yuko.yoneyama@takeda.com

+81 70-2610-6609

U.S. and International Media

Chris Stamm

chris.stamm@takeda.com

+1 617-374-7726

Source: Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited

FAQ

What are the results of the Phase 2b trial for TAK-861 in patients with narcolepsy type 1?

The trial demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in objective and subjective measures of wakefulness compared to placebo at week 8.

Is TAK-861 generally safe and well-tolerated?

Yes, TAK-861 was found to be generally safe and well-tolerated, with no treatment-related serious adverse events reported.

What are the future plans for TAK-861?

Takeda plans to initiate global Phase 3 trials of TAK-861 in NT1 rapidly in the first half of its fiscal year 2024.

Does the trial results have any impact on the full-year consolidated reported forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024?

No, the results have no impact on the full-year consolidated reported forecast for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024.