TC-5214

TC-5214 is an experimental drug that was developed for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It was developed by the pharmaceutical company Targacept, in collaboration with AstraZeneca. However, the development of TC-5214 was discontinued in 2012 after it failed to meet the primary endpoint in Phase III clinical trials.

History

TC-5214 was initially developed by Targacept, a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the design and development of neuronal nicotinic receptor (NNR) therapeutics. In 2009, Targacept entered into a collaboration with AstraZeneca for the global development and commercialization of TC-5214.

Mechanism of Action

TC-5214 is a nicotinic antagonist, specifically targeting the alpha4beta2 subtype of the neuronal nicotinic receptor. This receptor subtype is believed to play a key role in the regulation of mood and anxiety.

Clinical Trials

TC-5214 underwent Phase II and Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of MDD and GAD. The Phase II trials showed promising results, with TC-5214 demonstrating significant improvement in depressive symptoms compared to placebo. However, the Phase III trials failed to meet the primary endpoint, which led to the discontinuation of the development of TC-5214.

Discontinuation

In 2012, Targacept and AstraZeneca announced the discontinuation of the development of TC-5214 due to its failure to meet the primary endpoint in Phase III clinical trials. The decision was based on the results of four Phase III trials, none of which demonstrated a significant improvement in depressive symptoms with TC-5214 compared to placebo.

See Also

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Targacept
• AstraZeneca
• Clinical trial