Azetukalner, a novel KV7 potassium channel opener, was evaluated in a phase 2 randomized clinical trial for adults with moderate to severe major depressive disorder (MDD).
The 20 mg dose showed clinically meaningful reduction in depressive symptoms by 6 weeks and significant improvement as early as 1 week on the MADRS scale.
Significant improvements were seen in secondary outcomes, including anhedonia measured by the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS), and in the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D17).
The safety profile was comparable to placebo, suggesting azetukalner is well tolerated.
