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AbbVie Expands Its Psychiatry Pipeline with Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals Acquisition

In a decisive move to enhance its portfolio in mental health treatments, AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV) has announced its intention to acquire Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals Inc. This acquisition focuses on Gilgamesh's bretisilocin, a promising investigational therapy aimed at treating moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder (MDD).

Bretisilocin, or GM-2505, represents a novel approach in the field of psychedelics and is currently undergoing Phase 2 clinical trials. Unlike traditional therapies that often come with prolonged psychoactive effects, bretisilocin is designed to offer a shorter duration of these effects, allowing for quicker relief from depressive symptoms while maintaining extended therapeutic benefits.

The Rise of Psychedelics in Mental Health Treatment

Research has increasingly recognized psychedelic compounds, particularly 5-HT2A receptor agonists, as viable options for treating serious mental health disorders. These compounds are noted for their rapid and durable antidepressant effects. However, many existing treatments are limited by an extended period of psychoactive experiences, something that bretisilocin effectively addresses.

Recent results from a Phase 2a study have shown promising effects, with significant reductions in the severity of depressive symptoms. In this study, a single 10mg dose of bretisilocin led to a -21.6 point change on the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) compared to a -12.1 point change for a lower dose active comparator (1mg), showcasing its robust effectiveness. Importantly, patients reported high tolerability with no severe adverse effects, positioning bretisilocin as a contender in the treatment landscape of MDD.

AbbVie’s Commitment to Psychiatry

Dr. Roopal Thakkar, executive vice president and chief scientific officer at AbbVie, emphasized the challenges in psychiatric medicine and the necessity for innovative solutions. This acquisition aligns with AbbVie's dedication to advance psychiatric care through new and effective treatment approaches. They aim to transition bretisilocin into late-stage clinical development, positioning themselves as leaders in neurosciences.

Jonathan Sporn, CEO of Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals, expressed that AbbVie’s partnership brings the expertise necessary to expedite the bretisilocin program while allowing Gilgamesh to focus on developing transformative therapies for complex mental health issues.

Financial Aspects of the Acquisition

Details surrounding the agreement reveal AbbVie will secure the bretisilocin program for up to $1.2 billion, which includes both an upfront payment and subsequent developmental milestones. Moreover, Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals is expected to spin off a new entity named Gilgamesh Pharma Inc., which will continue to operate its other programs, ensuring a continued focus on innovative treatment methodologies.

This transaction builds upon the already established collaboration between AbbVie and Gilgamesh from 2024 aimed at creating next-generation therapies for psychiatric disorders.

Conclusion

As the demand for effective mental health treatments continues to rise, the acquisition of bretisilocin represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by major depressive disorder. Both AbbVie and Gilgamesh are poised to make substantial contributions to the evolving landscape of psychiatric care, bringing new hope to those affected by debilitating conditions. As research and clinical development proceed, the potential of bretisilocin may redefine standards of care in mental health, further demonstrating the necessity of innovation in pharmaceuticals.

For more information about AbbVie and their initiatives, visit AbbVie. To learn about Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals and their research, visit Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals.