Matthew Hershenhorn

Matthew Hershenhorn of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked about weight loss efficacy expectations for the CBEYOND trial, key secondary metrics, potential discontinuation rates, and the eligibility criteria for the extension study.

Answer

President, CEO & Director Punit Dhillon stated the Phase 2a trial is a proof-of-mechanism study, where a 5-8% placebo-adjusted weight loss would be a strong signal. He emphasized the goal is to validate the mechanism and establish a strong safety profile. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Puneet Arora clarified that approximately 50% of patients are eligible for the extension study primarily due to the logistical timing of its setup, not just patient dropouts.

Matthew Hershenhorn asked how Axsome plans to leverage its Sunosi commercial team for the AXS-12 launch and about its overall strategy in narcolepsy with two products.

Answer

Chief Commercial Officer Ari Maizel highlighted the 'near perfect overlap' in physician targets, allowing the Sunosi team to be fully leveraged for AXS-12, creating a 'real synergistic opportunity.' He noted that polypharmacy is common, and with distinct indications, he could foresee combination use of the two products.