Can-Fite (NYSEAMERICAN:CANF) has been using its capabilities to develop an innovative pipeline of patented compounds aimed at treating autoimmune-inflammatory and liver diseases. However, with a submission of an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the FDA, the company has also joined the race of developing potential treatments for COVID-19. The IND is for a Phase II study of Piclidenoson, the lead drug candidate, and a presumed treatment of COVID-19.
The Phase II study is a pilot trial in a population of hospitalized patients. They must have had standard supportive care before receiving the 2 mg dose of Piclidenoson twice daily or placebo. Eligible patients must also demonstrate “moderate” symptoms of COVID-19. This is in line with the U.S. National Institutes of Health Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Treatment Guidelines.
The Pressing Urgency of Finding Effective Treatments for COVID-19
“With the unfortunate resurgence of COVID-19 infections worldwide, the urgency… is more pressing now than ever,” Can-Fite CEO Dr. Pnina Fishman stated. Indeed, the world is in extreme anxiety as the number of infections and deaths continue to rise. This is the more reason why Can-Fite is working closely with the FDA’s Coronavirus Treatment Acceleration Program (CTAP) in anticipation of an IND activation soon to start its Phase II trial.
Piclidenoson is primarily an orally bioavailable drug and has already demonstrated a favorable therapeutic index in Phase II clinical studies. It is also undergoing a multinational Phase III evaluation as a potential treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and will replace methotrexate if approved.
Can-Fite’s Platform Technology Addresses the Needs of Multi-Billion Dollar Markets
The company has been in the market long enough and has attained unparalleled expertise in the development of therapeutics. It has been playing a significant role in addressing the needs of multi-billion-dollar markets, which target particular treatments
Apart from Piclidenoson, Can-Fite has another drug candidate, Namodenoson, awaiting a Phase III trial for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Statistics indicate that this is one of the most common types of cancer, which affects the liver. It is also a targeted treatment for melanoma, prostate, and colon cancer. Another candidate is CF602, which has demonstrated effectiveness in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
