NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - January 09, 2012) -
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Ohr Pharmaceutical Inc. (OTCBB: OHRP) today announced that it has been awarded Unites States (#8,084,039) and European (EP1399108) patents entitled “Preparation of a Therapeutic Composition.” The patents include claims related to the chemical structures, sequences of the peptide constituents and method of manufacture of OHR/AVR118.
“These patent awards significantly strengthen our OHR/AVR118 cancer cachexia program currently being investigated in a Phase II clinical trial,” stated Dr. Irach B. Taraporewala, Ph.D., CEO. “OHR/AVR118 has the potential to greatly benefit advanced cancer patients suffering from the debilitating effects of cachexia. Stronger, more stable patients have a much better chance of tolerating the intense chemotherapies and radiation therapies involved in treating late stages of cancer.”
Dr. Taraporewala will be presenting a corporate overview at the Biotech Showcase™ 2012 in San Francisco, CA today at 4:30 p.m. PT (7:30 p.m. ET). The presentation will include an overview of Ohr’s clinical wet-AMD eye drop and cancer cachexia programs along with the Company’s business outlook and expected milestones for 2012. The presentation will be webcast live and can be accessed by clicking on the following link: http://www.media-server.com/m/p/qthzg6sq
About Ohr Pharmaceutical Inc.
Ohr Pharmaceutical Inc. (OTCBB: OHRP) (www.ohrpharmaceutical.com) is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to the clinical development of new drugs for underserved therapeutic needs in large and growing markets. The company is focused on two lead compounds: Squalamine eye drops for the treatment of the wet form of age-related macular degeneration, and OHR/AVR118 for the treatment of cancer cachexia, currently being investigated in a Phase II trial.
Interim Phase II Trial Data:
Interim data from the ongoing Phase II cancer cachexia trial was presented at the 5th annual meeting of the Society of Cachexia and Wasting Disorders in Barcelona, and were consistent with previous positive clinical trial results of OHR/AVR118 in late-stage cachectic AIDS patients.
A total of 11 patients completed the treatment period, with 8 (73%) of those patients electing to continue with OHR/AVR118 treatment beyond the treatment period. OHR/AVR118 produced statistically significant improvements in anorexia, dyspepsia, strength and depression in this trial. Weight stabilization or gain was observed in 7 of 11 patients. Total PG-SGA scores improved significantly (p = < 0.01). Appetite (p = < 0.01) and depression (p = 0.05) scores improved on ESAS. Furthermore, improvement was also seen in multiple gastrointestinal symptoms as measured by Dyspepsia Symptom Severity Index (bloating, stomach distension and belching). OHR/AVR118 was well tolerated with no serious side effects reported.
OHR/AVR118 is a broad spectrum immunomodulator whose main action is to act as an anti-inflammatory through the inhibition and modulation of cellular pro-inflammatory chemokine and cykotine synthesis, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6).
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made only as the date thereof, and Ohr Pharmaceutical undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Our actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including the future success of our scientific studies, our ability to successfully develop products, rapid technological change in our markets, changes in demand for our future products, legislative, regulatory and competitive developments, the financial resources available to us, and general economic conditions. For example, there can be no assurance that Ohr will be able to sustain operations for expected periods. Shareholders and prospective investors are cautioned that no assurance of the efficacy of pharmaceutical products can be claimed or assured until final testing; and no assurance or warranty can be made that the FDA or Health Canada will approve final testing or marketing of any pharmaceutical product. Ohr’s most recent Annual Report and subsequent Quarterly Reports discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. We disclaim any intent to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason.
Contact:
Ohr Pharmaceutical Inc.
Sam Backenroth
Vice President, Business Development
212-682-8452
sam@ohrpharmaceutical.com
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