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PharmaTher Announces Grant of U.S. Patent on Formulation and Production Process of Ketamine and Ketamine Analogs

PharmaTher Announces Grant of U.S. Patent on Formulation and Production Process of Ketamine and Ketamine Analogs

TORONTO, May 5, 2022 — PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company” or “PharmaTher”) (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM), a leader in specialty ketamine pharmaceuticals, is pleased to announce that the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted US Patent No: 11,286,230, titled “Ketamine Flow Synthesis” (the “Patent”), which refers to a continuous-flow process technology for the preparation of ketamine and ketamine analogs. The Company gained exclusive worldwide development and commercial rights of the Patent along with Europe patent no. 3700887B1 and patent applications in China and Canada from Gesval S.A., a public limited company incorporated by the University of Liège, Belgium.

Fabio Chianelli, Chief Executive Officer of PharmaTher, commented: “Our goal is to become the leader in specialty ketamine pharmaceuticals.  The recent grant of the U.S. patent strengthens our patent portfolio of novel uses, delivery forms, formulations, and production processes of ketamine and ketamine analogs to serve the unmet medical needs for mental health, neurological and pain disorders, and surgery.”

The Patent strengthens the Company’s global intellectual property portfolio of ketamine, which consists of novel uses (i.e. Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), delivery forms (i.e. microneedle patch, injection, infusion and wearable pump), formulations (i.e. ketamine and betaine, analogs), production (i.e. process flow synthesis), and the Company’s FDA orphan drug designation portfolio of ketamine for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Status Epilepticus.

As part of its short-term product strategy, the Company is developing its own Ketamine Injection and Infusion product to support the Company’s expected pivotal clinical studies for Parkinson’s disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease), future FDA 505(b)(2) regulatory submissions in mental health, neurological and pain disorders, and its commercialization plans in the U.S. via an FDA Abbreviated New Drug Application (“ANDA”) for anesthesia and procedural sedation. The Company expects to file the ANDA in Q4-2022 for commercialization in the U.S. In addition, the Company’s long-term product strategy is to develop novel ketamine formulations and drug delivery systems, including its patented microneedle patch and proposed wearable pump device for the intradermal and subcutaneous delivery of ketamine, respectively.

Ketamine was approved by the FDA in 1970 and is clinically used for analgesia, sedation, and anesthetic induction. Ketamine is also emerging as a viable treatment option for various mental health, neurological and pain disorders. However, the methods generally used for the production of ketamine are time-consuming and typically based on stepwise macroscopic batch processes resulting in low productivity, reproducibility and flexibility due to poor mixing and heat transfer.

Developed at the Center for Integrated Technology and Organic Synthesis (CiTOS, ULiège) headed by Professor Jean-Christophe Monbaliu, the Patent relates to a scalable, safe and efficient continuous-flow process in micro/mesofluidic reactors for the production of ketamine and ketamine analogs, thereby addressing the shortcomings of the ketamine batch processes to improve yield production, reproducibility, purity profile, and requiring smaller footprint for production. In addition to improving the production process of racemic ketamine, the Patent provides various methods for synthesizing ketamine analogs (i.e. arylcycloalkylamine derivatives) by using continuous-flow conditions with a drastically improved efficiency relative to batch procedures, which is of paramount importance for developing next-generation ketamines.

About PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.

​PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM) is focused on the development and commercialization of specialty ketamine pharmaceuticals for mental health, neurological, and pain disorders. Learn more at PharmaTher.com.

For more information about PharmaTher, please contact:

Fabio Chianelli
Chief Executive Officer
PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.
Tel: 1-888-846-3171
Email: info@pharmather.com
Website: www.pharmather.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider have reviewed or accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement

This press release contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words “could”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe”, “will”, “projected”, “estimated”, “potential”, “aim”, “may” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company”) current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company at the date of the information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof, and Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption “Risk Factors” in Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three and nine month periods ended February 28, 2022 and 2021 (“MD&A”), dated April 25, 2022, which is available on the Company’s profile at www.sedar.com.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any state, province, territory or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state, province, territory or jurisdiction.

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Slowing the progression of ALS

PharmaTher Announces FDA Approval of Investigational New Drug (IND) Application for Ketamine to Treat ALS

When diagnosed with ALS, patients are typically given 2 to 6 years to live and experience rapid decline in muscle function. Even after the ice bucket challenge took the internet by storm, a cure has yet to be found. 

Luckily, ketamine is showing potential to slow the progression of the disease to improve both the quality and length of patients’ lives.

In a mouse model of ALS, PharmaTher (PHRM) found that ketamine preserved muscle function and increased life expectancy if administered in the early stages of the disease. 

The company received FDA approval for a Phase II trial that will assess a biomarker of neurodegeneration, functional abilities, muscle strength, and depression scores among ALS patients undergoing ketamine treatments.

PharmaTher Inc.

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PharmaTher Provides Update on Product Pipeline and Expected Milestones for 2022

PharmaTher Provides Update on Product Pipeline and Expected Milestones for 2022

Focused on becoming a leader in the development and commercialization of specialty ketamine prescription-based products
Expected milestones for 2022 include initiating Phase 3 clinical study for ketamine to treat Parkinson’s disease (KETLID); completing Phase 2 clinical study for ketamine to treat ALS (KETALS); completing observational study with ketamine and betaine for depression and pain (KETABET); initiating Phase 2 clinical study for ketamine microneedle patch (KETAPATCH); and seeking FDA approval for Ketamine Hydrochloride Injection USPproduct (KETARX)

​TORONTO, December 21, 2021 — PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company” or “PharmaTher”) (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM), a company focused on the development and commercialization of specialty ketamine prescription-based products, is pleased to provide a product pipeline update and expected milestones for 2022.

Fabio Chianelli, Chief Executive Officer of PharmaTher, said, “2021 proved to be a foundational year for PharmaTher as we achieved a number of milestones which have paved the way for an exciting 2022 in unlocking ketamine’s therapeutic potential for treating Parkinson’s disease and ALS, the development of our ketamine hydrochloride injection USP product and our ketamine microneedle patch as a potential next-generation therapeutic solution for mental health, neurological and pain disorders.  We are now in a position both operationally and financially to seek FDA approval for KETARX, our ketamine prescription product, and to enter clinical studies for KETAPATCH, our ketamine patch product, in 2022.”

Project KETLID:  Ketamine for Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia in Parkinson’s Disease

The Company’s Phase 2 clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04912115)  to evaluate the safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of ketamine in the treatment of levodopa-induced dyskinesia (“LID”) in patients with Parkinson’s disease is currently ongoing and the Company now expects topline results in Q1-2022. Positive Phase 2 clinical results will allow the Company to request a meeting with the FDA to discuss its plan and obtain an agreement to move to a Phase 3 clinical study under the 505(b)2 regulatory pathway by Q3-2022.

PharmaTher has an exclusive license agreement with the University of Arizona for the intellectual property protecting the potential use of ketamine to treat movement disorders.  The possible therapeutic effect of low-dose ketamine on LID was noted in a retrospective analysis of Parkinson’s disease patients who received ketamine for pain relief. During this analysis, it was observed that the patients experienced an improvement in LID lasting several weeks beyond treatment [Sherman et al, 2016]. These results were corroborated in a test of low-dose ketamine in a rodent LID model, and this possible effect has also been examined in a controlled study [Bartlett et al, 2016].

Project KETALS:  Ketamine for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease)       

An Investigator-initiated IND application has been submitted and it is expected the FDA will accept the IND to proceed to a clinical study for ketamine to treat ALS patients within the next 30 days.  Patient enrollment is targeted for Q1-2022.  On August 3rd, 2021, the Company was granted orphan drug designation by the FDA for ketamine to treat ALS.

PharmaTher has an exclusive license agreement with the University of Kansas for the intellectual property protecting the potential use of ketamine to treat ALS. Ketamine has the potential to effectively increase the life expectancy of those with ALS at any stage and slow the progressive loss of muscle associated with poor outcomes of the disease. The University of Kansas Medical Center researchers and inventors of the potential use of ketamine to treat ALS, Dr. Richard J. Barohn, M.D., John A. Stanford, Ph.D., and Dr. Matthew Macaluso, D.O., have made the promising discovery that ketamine can be administered as an effective treatment for ALS. In addition, unpublished and patent-pending preclinical research has shown that the administration of ketamine preserves muscle function in advancing ALS and increases life expectancy when given in the early stages of muscle decline.

Project KETABET: Ketamine and Betaine Combination Formulation

The Company is supporting an Investigator-lead observational study to evaluate the impact of betaine anhydrous on the unwanted ketamine side effects seen post ketamine treatment for subjects with depression.  The Company now expects results to be reported in early Q1-2022.  Based on the results, the Company will advance the KETABET program with its microneedle patch for clinical studies in the H2-2022.

PharmaTher has an exclusive license agreement with the National Health Research Institutes for the development and commercialization of a patented combination formulation of FDA-approved ketamine and betaine. KETABET has been shown in research to enhance the antidepressant effect while having the potential to reduce the known negative side effects of ketamine significantly.  The combination of ketamine and betaine anhydrous produced more robust antidepressant-like responses than their individual effects and that the combination blocked the psychotomimetic effects of ketamine [Lin, Jen-Cheng et al., 2016].

Project KETAPATCH: Ketamine Microneedle Patch

In collaboration with The Queen’s University of Belfast (“QUB”), led by Professor Ryan Donnelly, the Company has successfully completed the evaluation of a patented hydrogel-forming microneedle patch to deliver Ketamine and KETABET as a potential next-generation treatment for neuropsychiatric, neurodegenerative and pain disorders.  This de-risking milestone supports the Company’s expansion in finalizing IND-enabling studies and the clinical manufacturing scale up with LTS Lohmann, a leader in transdermal delivery systems, to support FDA and international regulatory submissions.  Validation and tech transfer activities to support clinical studies are in progress and the Company expects to conduct clinical studies in H2-2022.

PharmaTher has an exclusive license agreement with QUB for the development and commercialization of a patented hydrogel-forming microneedle delivery technology developed by Professor Ryan Donnelly to support PharmaTher’s product and clinical development initiatives with ketamine and psychedelics.  Professor Donnelly’s lab successfully completed research and published a paper titled “Hydrogel-forming microneedle arrays as a therapeutic option for transdermal esketamine delivery” validating the delivery of esketamine, the S(+) enantiomer of ketamine, in a novel microneedle patch which may overcome the drawbacks associated with ketamine administration in an intravenous or nasal spray format [Courtenay, Aaron J et al., 2020].

Project KETARX: Ketamine Prescription (Rx) Product

The Company is developing its own Ketamine Hydrochloride Injection USP product as part of its plans to support the Company’s future Phase 3 clinical studies and its commercialization plans in the U.S. via a supplemental Abbreviated New Drug Application (“sANDA”) with the FDA for use in anesthesia and procedural sedation.  The Company expects to file for its sANDA in Q4-2022 for commercialization in the U.S. and international markets thereafter.

PharmaTher has entered into an agreement with Alcami Corporation, a global pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organization with extensive experience in cGMP sterile fill-finish products and handling of controlled substances, for the clinical and commercial manufacturing for the Company’s KETARX project. The Company expects to form partnerships with research labs, ketamine clinics and pharmaceutical companies that are: seeking a secure supply of cGMP ketamine and ketamine products for current portfolios; exploring alternative dose forms for multiple existing indications; and requiring support to develop and eventually commercialize specific ketamine products for new indications.  In addition, the Company will enter the market with KETARX targeting ketamine’s FDA approved label for anesthesia and procedural sedation.

About PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.

​PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM) is focused on the research, development and commercialization of specialty ketamine prescription-based products including KETAPATCH, a  ketamine microneedle patch for mental health, neurological and pain disorders, and KETARX, a ketamine hydrochloride injection USP product for anesthesia and procedural sedation. Learn more at PharmaTher.com, Twitter and LinkedIn.

For more information about PharmaTher, please contact:

Fabio Chianelli
Chief Executive Officer
PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.
Tel: 1-888-846-3171
Email: info@pharmather.com
Website: www.pharmather.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider have reviewed or accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement

This press release contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words “could”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe”, “will”, “projected”, “estimated”, “potential”, “aim”, “may” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company”) current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company at the date of the information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof, and Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption “Risk Factors” in Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the period of August 31, 2021 (“MD&A”), dated October 27, 2021, which is available on the Company’s profile at www.sedar.com.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any state, province, territory or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state, province, territory or jurisdiction.

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PharmaTher Applies for FDA Orphan Drug Designation for Ketamine to Treat Rare Neurological Disorder Status Epilepticus

PharmaTher Applies for FDA Orphan Drug Designation for Ketamine to Treat Rare Neurological Disorder Status Epilepticus

  • Adds to PharmaTher’s existing FDA orphan drug portfolio with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and complex regional pain syndrome
  • Strengthens commitment to treat rare disorders and life-threatening conditions with ketamine
TORONTO, November 24, 2021 — PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company” or “PharmaTher”) (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM), a clinical-stage psychedelics biotech company, is pleased to announce that it has applied with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) to receive Orphan Drug Designation (“ODD”) for ketamine to treat Status Epilepticus (“SE”), a rare neurological disorder requiring emergency treatment for a seizure.  The Company has received FDA ODD for ketamine to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (“ALS”) and complex regional pain syndrome (“CRPS”).  The addition of SE strengthens the Company’s pharmaceutical strategy in developing novel uses and delivery methods (i.e. microneedle patch) for ketamine to treat rare disorders and life-threatening conditions.

SE is a life-threatening occurrence of a prolonged seizure or recurrent seizures without recovery of consciousness between seizures (Lowenstein 1999) lasting more than five minutes. Epidemiological studies found an annual incidence of SE ranging from 41/100,000-61/100,000 (DeLorenzo 1996). Based on these studies, there are approximately 120,000-180,000 episodes of convulsive SE each year in the U.S. SE affects individuals of all ages and it complicates various neurological and systemic illnesses. If SE is not treated immediately, permanent neuronal damage may occur, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates. The mortality associated with SE is estimated at 17% and may lead to morbidity, including cognitive defects and neurological injury. SE is initially treated with benzodiazepines, which approximately 35-45% of patients are refractory to benzodiazepines.

Fabio Chianelli, Chief Executive Officer of PharmaTher, said, “Ketamine has the potential to treat various mental health, neurological and pain disorders, and we are focused on expanding ketamine’s therapeutic utility in rare disorders and life-threatening conditions including, but not limited to, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, complex regional pain syndrome, and now status epilepticus.  The FDA orphan drug application for ketamine to treat status epilepticus builds on our belief in the potential of ketamine to improve quality of life and to save lives.”

The Orphan Drug Act grants special status to a drug or biological product to treat a rare disease or condition upon request of a sponsor. This status is referred to as orphan designation (or sometimes “orphan status”). The FDA grants orphan status to products that treat rare diseases, providing incentives to sponsors developing drugs or biologics. The FDA defines rare diseases as those affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the United States at any given time. Orphan drug designation would qualify ketamine for certain benefits and incentives, including seven years of marketing exclusivity if regulatory approval is ultimately received for the designated indication, potential tax credits for certain clinical drug testing costs, activities, eligibility for orphan drug grants, and the waiver of the FDA New Drug Application filing fee of approximately $2.4 million.

About PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.

​PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM) is a clinical-stage psychedelics biotech company focused on the research, development and commercialization of novel uses, formulations and delivery methods of psychedelics, such as ketamine, to treat mental health, neurological and pain disorders.  PharmaTher is currently advancing an FDA approved phase 2 clinical study with ketamine to treat Parkinson’s disease and is developing a novel microneedle patch for the intradermal delivery of psychedelics and infectious disease treatments.
​
Learn more at:  PharmaTher.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

For more business development opportunities or information about PharmaTher, please contact:

Fabio Chianelli
Chief Executive Officer
PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.
Tel: 1-888-846-3171
Email: info@pharmather.com
Website: www.pharmather.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider have reviewed or accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement

This press release contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words “could”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe”, “will”, “projected”, “estimated”, “potential”, “aim” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company”) current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company at the date of the information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof, and Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption “Risk Factors” in Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the period of August 31, 2021 (“MD&A”), dated October 27, 2021, which is available on the Company’s profile at www.sedar.com.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any state, province, territory or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state, province, territory or jurisdiction.

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PharmaTher Provides Product Pipeline Updates and Anticipated Milestones for Q4-2021 and 2022

PharmaTher Provides Product Pipeline Updates and Anticipated Milestones for Q4-2021 and 2022

  • 10 clinical sites selected to participate in the FDA Phase 2 clinical study evaluating ketamine for the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
  • Initiated investigational new drug (IND) application to proceed to a Phase 2 clinical study for KETABET™ to treat depression
  • Completed Phase 2 clinical study protocol for ketamine to treat ALS for IND submission to the FDA
  • Near completion of research programs to advance novel microneedle patches for the delivery of psychedelics
  • Selected U.S.-based CDMO to develop and supply proprietary ketamine products for FDA Phase 3 clinical studies and commercialization
  • Positioned ketamine focused product pipeline for potential Phase 3 clinical studies and commercial supply in 2022

TORONTO, September 13, 2021 — PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company” or “PharmaTher”) (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM), a clinical-stage psychedelics biotech company, is pleased to provide a product pipeline update and anticipated milestones for Q4-2021 and 2022 including ongoing FDA Phase 2 clinical study programs, microneedle patch delivery programs for psychedelics, and clinical, commercial manufacturing and supply for its proprietary ketamine and microneedle patch products.

Fabio Chianelli, Chief Executive Officer of PharmaTher, said, “I am very pleased with the progress of our clinical programs for ketamine as a potential treatment for Parkinson’s disease, ALS and depression.  Our research programs for microneedle patch delivery are nearing completion and preparations for FDA Phase 1 and 2 clinical studies are on track.  To support these and future programs, we are securing manufacturing and supply of our proprietary ketamine products and microneedle patches for planned FDA Phase 2 and 3 clinical studies and commercialization in 2022 and beyond.  We remain focused on achieving our milestones in Q4-2021 and building a solid foundation that will allow us to become a leader in the development and commercialization of novel ketamine-based products. In addition, our intradermal delivery of ketamine and psychedelics via our proprietary microneedle patches position us for potential next-generation therapeutic solutions for mental health, neurological and pain disorders.”

FDA Phase 2 Clinical Study Programs     

For the rest of 2021, PharmaTher will focus on advancing three promising developments through FDA Phase 2 clinical studies:

Ketamine for Parkinson’s Disease    

The FDA’s approval to proceed with a Phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of ketamine in the treatment of levodopa-induced dyskinesia in patients with Parkinson’s disease triggered clinical program execution.  The Company has completed its clinical trial start-up activities and selection of essential vendors including  project management, central laboratory, clinical supply kits and logistics, data management and biostatistics, and clinical site management and monitoring.  Clinical trial drug product (ketamine) and active placebo (midazolam) have also been obtained.  

More importantly, the Company has selected ten (10) clinical sites in the U.S. to participate in the Phase 2 clinical study.  Patient screening has begun and the Company expects patient enrollment to support the delivery of clinical results in Q4-2021.

For further detail about the study (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04912115), titled “A Multi-Center, Phase II, Randomized, Double-Blind, Prospective, Active Placebo-Controlled Trial of Sub-Anesthetic Intravenous Infusion of Ketamine to Treat Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia in Subjects with Parkinson’s Disease,” please visit https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04912115?term=PharmaTher&draw=2&rank=1.

If the Phase 2 clinical study is positive, the Company will request a meeting with the FDA to discuss its plan and obtain an agreement to move to a Phase 3 clinical study under the 505(b)2 regulatory pathway in the first half of 2022.   

KETABET™ for Treatment-Resistant Depression    

The Company has finalized the Phase 2 clinical study protocol to evaluate KETABET™ for treatment-resistant depression.  The Company is working with its scientific and clinical advisor, Dr. Maurizio Fava, MD, with the aim to complete the IND and file it with the FDA in early October.  With the overlap of the clinical operations from the Parkinson’s disease study, the Company has already activated start-up activities and identified potential clinical sites to screen and enroll patients for the proposed Phase 2 clinical study in Q4-2021.  The aim is to share initial clinical results by the end of this year.

Assuming the Phase 2 clinical study is positive, the Company will request a meeting with the FDA to discuss its plan and obtain an agreement to move to a Phase 3 clinical study under the 505(b)2 regulatory pathway in the first half of 2022.

KETABET™ is the Company’s patented combination formulation of FDA-approved ketamine and betaine as a potential next-generation treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders.  More than 300 million people suffer from major depressive disorder and of those, 100 million are resistant to available treatments worldwide.   KETABET™ research has shown potential enhancement of the antidepressant effect while having the potential to significantly reduce the known negative side effects of ketamine.1  Side effects such as hallucinations, confusion, memory loss and abuse liability compromise the compliance and potential therapeutic value of ketamine.

Ketamine for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease)       

The Company has been granted orphan drug designation by the FDA for ketamine to treat ALS and along with its clinical advisors, has finalized the Phase 2 clinical study protocol. The IND application for this study is in process and will be filed with the FDA in October 2021 with patient enrollment targeting Q1-2022.

PharmaTher has an exclusive license agreement with the University of Kansas for the intellectual property protecting the potential use of ketamine to treat ALS.  Preclinical research has shown that the administration of ketamine preserves muscle function in advancing ALS and could potentially increase life expectancy when given in the early stages of muscle decline.

Proprietary Microneedle Patch Delivery Programs for Psychedelics    

PharmaTher is working with its research and development partners to advance next-generation microneedle patches for the delivery of psychedelics:

Hydrogel-Forming Microneedle Delivery Technology for Ketamine           

PharmaTher has exclusive worldwide development and commercial rights for the delivery of ketamine, esketamine and KETABET™ using a patented hydrogel-forming microneedle patch.  The Company is working with Professor Ryan Donnelly under a research agreement with The Queen’s University of Belfast to develop the microneedle patch for the delivery of ketamine and KETABET™.  Foundational research is almost complete and final research results will become available in December 2021.   To date, initial proof of concept with ketamine and KETABET™ is very encouraging.  The Company is currently preparing for validation and tech transfer activities to support Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical studies in 2022.  Development progress will be made available as they arise for the remainder of the year.

The Company’s microneedle patch leverages the successful proof of concept achieved in delivering esketamine, the S(+) enantiomer of ketamine, via the microneedle patch, which may overcome the drawbacks associated with ketamine administration in an intravenous or nasal spray format.2  Details of the research can be found in a published paper titled “Hydrogel-forming microneedle arrays as a therapeutic option for transdermal esketamine delivery.” 

GelMA Microneedle Delivery Technology for Psychedelics

The Company is working with the Terasaki Institute under a research agreement to finalize the development of a proprietary microneedle delivery technology comprised of a biocompatible and biodegradable gelatin methacryloy (GelMA) composite for use with psychedelics such as psilocybin, DMT, MDMA and LSD.  The GelMA patch delivery technology is the driving force of the Company’s psychedelics microdosing program.  The research program is almost complete and successful proof of concept with psilocybin and LSD has been achieved.  Full research results will be made available in November 2021.  The Company is currently preparing for validation and tech transfer activities to support Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical studies in 2022.

Clinical and Commercial Manufacturing and Supply Initiatives          

Proprietary Ketamine

PharmaTher is focused on building a specialty ketamine-based product pipeline.  The Company has selected a U.S.-based GMP contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) with extensive experience in the development, production and supply of clinical and commercial controlled substance sterile products.  PharmaTher will work with the CDMO to develop the Company’s proprietary ketamine drug product(s) to support future clinical studies and global commercial supply.

It is expected that the proprietary ketamine drug products will be available for FDA Phase 3 clinical studies and commercialization in H2-2022.

Proprietary Microneedle Patch

The Company entered into a co-development agreement with TSRL, Inc. to jointly develop the patented hydrogel-forming microneedle patch delivery technology.  This allows the Companies to control the manufacturing and supply of microneedle patches for their respective clinical and commercial drug programs.

PharmaTher is focused on incorporating psychedelics and TSRL is focused on incorporating antiviral medications in a microneedle patch with the potential to improve the safety (i.e. fewer side effects), efficacy (i.e. bioavailability, optimized dosing regimen including continuous system delivery) and compliance (i.e. storage, distribution and self-administration) of these compounds that currently must be taken orally, inhaled, injected and intravenously.

Recent activities included the tech transfer for scale-up and manufacturing of clinical supplies to a GMP contract research lab and a pre-IND meeting with the FDA that achieved agreement with the agency on proposed 505(b)2 product development plans.

The Company aims to validate non-clinical and clinical production of the microneedle patch by October 2021 and begin non-clinical and clinical manufacturing supply at the end of 2021.  The Company expects to enter into Phase 1 and 2 clinical studies in 2022 to evaluate its microneedle patch in delivering ketamine, KETABET™, psilocybin, DMT, MDMA and LSD.

About PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.

​PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM) is a clinical-stage psychedelics biotech company focused on the research, development and commercialization of novel uses, formulations and delivery methods of psychedelics, including ketamine, to treat mental health, neurological and pain disorders.  PharmaTher is currently conducting an FDA approved phase 2 clinical study with ketamine to treat Parkinson’s disease and is developing novel microneedle patches for the intradermal delivery of psychedelics.
​
Learn more at:  PharmaTher.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

For more information about PharmaTher, please contact:

Fabio Chianelli
Chief Executive Officer
PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.
Tel: 1-888-846-3171
Email: info@pharmather.com
Website: www.pharmather.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider have reviewed or accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement

This press release contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words “could”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe”, “will”, “projected”, “estimated”, “potential”, “aim” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company”) current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company at the date of the information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof, and Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption “Risk Factors” in Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the period of May 31, 2021 (“MD&A”), dated September 7, 2021, which is available on the Company’s profile at www.sedar.com.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any state, province, territory or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state, province, territory or jurisdiction.

References:

  1. J.-C. Lin, M.-Y. Lee, M.-H. Chan, Y.-C. Chen, H.-H. Chen, Betaine enhances antidepressant-like, but blocks psychotomimetic effects of ketamine in mice, Psychopharmacology (Berl). 233 (2016) 3223–32.
  2. Courtenay, et al. Hydrogel-forming microneedle arrays as a therapeutic option for transdermal esketamine delivery, Journal of Controlled Release, Volume 322, 2020, Pages 177-186.