AtheroGenics Nixes Max Dose in Diabetes Study

AtheroGenics(AGIX Quote) has discontinued the highest dose of AGI-1067 in a planned dosing-range study for the diabetes treatment candidate.

The drugmaker, which announced the study change after Friday's market close, came to the decision to stop offering the 300-milligram dose after discussions with the Food and Drug Administration and review of the risk/benefit profile (namely abnormal liver function) in an earlier phase III trial.

Earlier this year the company diverted AGI-1067 from development for heart disease after the drug showed no advantage over placebo in the primary endpoint in its ARISE trial and raised safety concerns with liver toxicity markers. The company also lost collaboration partner AstraZeneca(AZN Quote). Shortly thereafter AtheroGenics announced it would cut its workforce by 67 employees -- about half -- and streamline operations. ...