Janssen Discontinues Development of Flubendazole Formulation to Treat Onchocerciasis

Johnson & Johnson press release -------- Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), announced today the discontinuation of the development of an orally bioavailable formulation of flubendazole, which was being investigated as a treatment for onchocerciasis. The decision was made because data from studies in animals raised safety concerns at high doses or with prolonged exposure to the oral formulation. “Despite our decision to not proceed with clinical trials of the oral flubendazole formulation, we are proud that Johnson & Johnson was able to fulfill its commitment in the 2012 London Declaration on Neglected Tropical Diseases to pursue the development of flubendazole for onchocerciasis,” said Wim Parys, Head of Research & Development, Global Public Health, Johnson & Johnson. “We will continue to support ongoing efforts to find improved treatment and diagnostics solutions by sharing preclinical data with partners so that others can leverage this research." To get more in depth information click on the picture below to read the release.