Eupraxia Therapeutics Unveils Promising Clinical Results for EoE Treatment

Eupraxia Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:EPRX) (TSX:EPRX), a pioneering clinical-stage pharmaceutical company, has announced highly encouraging safety and efficacy findings from its Phase 2 study evaluating EP-104GI for the treatment of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). These positive results were presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2024, a premier global conference for gastrointestinal professionals, underscoring the potential of this innovative therapeutic.

The study, meticulously designed to assess the effectiveness and safety profile of EP-104GI, demonstrated a significant reduction in esophageal eosinophil counts, a key histological marker for EoE, among patients receiving the treatment.

Specifically, 88% of patients in the highest dose arm achieved histological remission, defined as fewer than 15 eosinophils per high-power field, compared to just 18% in the placebo group. This remarkable difference highlights the potent anti-inflammatory action of EP-104GI at the site of disease.

Beyond histological improvements, the study also reported clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including reduced dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and fewer episodes of food impaction.

These symptomatic benefits are crucial for enhancing the quality of life for individuals suffering from EoE, a chronic and debilitating inflammatory condition of the esophagus.

Dr. William Harris, Chief Medical Officer of Eupraxia, expressed immense satisfaction with the data, stating, "These results are a significant milestone for Eupraxia and for patients living with EoE.

EP-104GI's unique localized drug delivery mechanism appears to offer a potent and well-tolerated treatment option. We are particularly encouraged by the high rates of histological remission and the corresponding symptomatic relief observed."

EP-104GI is a proprietary, locally acting fluticasone propionate formulation designed to deliver the active drug directly to the esophageal tissue while minimizing systemic exposure.

This targeted approach is intended to maximize therapeutic effect where it's needed most, reducing the risk of systemic side effects commonly associated with conventional corticosteroid treatments. The formulation leverages Eupraxia's innovative drug delivery platform, which aims to improve the safety and efficacy of existing therapeutic molecules.

Safety data from the study were equally reassuring, with EP-104GI demonstrating a favorable tolerability profile.

The incidence of adverse events was comparable between the treatment and placebo arms, and no new or unexpected safety signals were identified. This robust safety profile is vital for a chronic condition like EoE, where long-term treatment is often required.

Eupraxia Therapeutics plans to advance EP-104GI into a pivotal Phase 3 study based on these compelling Phase 2 results.

The company remains committed to addressing the significant unmet medical needs in EoE, a condition that currently affects millions globally with limited effective and safe long-term treatment options. The successful progression of EP-104GI could mark a transformative step forward in managing this challenging disease.

The positive outcomes from this study not only validate Eupraxia’s scientific approach but also position EP-104GI as a leading candidate in the rapidly evolving landscape of EoE therapeutics.

Investors and patients alike will be keenly watching its further development.