InhaleRx has obtained Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) approval to commence a Phase II clinical trial that will test its IRX-211 drug-device medication on patients living with breakthrough cancer pain (BTcP).
The trial is designed to assess the safety, effectiveness, and appropriate dosing of IRX-211 in BTcP patients. The condition involves sudden, severe episodes of acute pain that significantly disrupts the daily lives of cancer patients and proves difficult to address through standard pain management approaches.
BTcP affects a large share of cancer patients worldwide, and InhaleRx said the total addressable market is estimated at more than US$1 billion.
CEO Darryl Davies added: "IRX-211 has the potential to redefine how breakthrough cancer pain is managed, addressing a critical gap in the market currently for safe, fast-acting, non-opioid treatments.
"We are committed to delivering a therapeutic solution that provides reliable relief to cancer patients without the severe side effects and dependency risks associated with current opioid-based therapies like fentanyl.
"This trial represents a major step in our journey toward realising that vision."
Hemp Pet
Hemp Pet has taken out the vet/feed innovation category at the Equitana Melbourne 2024 business awards for its Performance Cookies product designed for horses.
Made with Tasmanian-grown hemp, Performance Cookies offer a high-protein, low-sugar, natural option aimed at supporting muscle recovery, care for older horses, and training regimens.
The award was presented at Equitana 2024, the southern hemisphere's largest equestrian event.
CEO Arthur Wajs said: "Our vision has always been to create products that combine innovation, science, and care, and this award validates our mission.
"Winning this award is not only a milestone for Hemp Pet but also for the Australian hemp industry, showcasing [its] potential as a sustainable and functional ingredient for equine health."
President of the NSW Industrial Hemp Association James Vosper added: "Hemp products are experiencing significant global growth and gaining recognition for their versatility – offering exceptional nutritional benefits in animal feeds while supporting environmental health through carbon sequestration."
President of the Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance (AIHA) Charles Kovess described Hemp Pet's success as "a wonderful reward for years of passionate commitment to healthier animals through healthier nutrition".
"AIHA is excited by the impact this award can make on raising awareness of the value of hemp foods for animals and people," he added.
Neurotech International
Neurotech has released genomic analysis findings from patients with Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Paediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) who took part in a Phase I/II clinical trial of its NTI164 cannabinoid drug candidate.
The analysis found that NTI164 modulated immune system activity, protein translation, and epigenetic factors at both the gene expression (genomic) and protein (proteomic) levels in children with PANDAS/PANS.
According to Neurotech, the data supports the safety and efficacy of NTI164 under the inflammatory conditions present in children with PANDAS/PANS, with no activation of potentially harmful cellular pathways observed.
The company expects to compile the genomic analysis results and submit them to a leading scientific journal in due course.
Cann Group
Cann Group has reported that, since its new multi-head filler was commissioned in August, the company has completed production of approximately 25,000 packed units.
Of the total units produced, 17,500 — equating to 70% — were fulfilled for external customers, while the remaining 30% went toward Cann's own Botanitech product range.
Cann told the ASX that bringing the automated multi-head filler online gives it "a unique opportunity in the market to provide competitively priced filling and labelling of medicinal cannabis products with quick turnaround times".
The company described the move as one of the "numerous efficiency activities" it has carried out over the past eight months with the aim of cutting operational costs.
CEO and managing director, Jenni Pilcher, added: "The implementation of the multi-head filler is another key milestone in our plans to accelerate revenue growth and reduce overheads. Also, we can better support our customers by reducing our turn-around times."
Contract GMP services from Cann Group's Mildura facility generated revenue of A$1.2 million in FY24.
