Omeprazole/antacid-powder suspension--Santarus: Acitrel, Rapinex Powder for oral suspension, SAN 05.

Santarus Inc., is developing an immediate-release formulation of omeprazole in combination with an antacid (sodium bicarbonate) as a powder for suspension, known as Acitrel [SAN 05], and also as Rapinex powder for oral suspension. Acitrel is based on technology licensed from the University of Missouri. Santarus have also licensed technology from Tulane and North Carolina Universities relating to potential treatments for GI diseases. Santarus have licensed exclusive, worldwide rights to patent applications covering specific combination-formulations of proton pump inhibitors and antacids for treating various upper GI diseases and disorders. Santarus plans to license development, distribution and marketing rights of Rapinex Powder for oral suspension 20mg outside the US, to one or more well established pharmaceutical companies. The US FDA has requested that Santarus pursue a name other than Rapinex for the product. Santarus is currently discussing potential alternative names for the product with the FDA. Santarus announced positive results, in August 2003, from a phase III trial comparing oral Acitrel (Rapinex 40mg) to intravenous cimetidine in preventing upper GI bleeding in 359 critically ill adult patients. Santarus has also completed an open-label clinical trial in 243 patients, including 97 patients with gastric ulcers, evaluating the safety of Rapinex 40mg for an 8-week period. In connection with the NDA for Rapinex 40mg, Santarus provided notice to the NDA holder for Prilosec delayed-release capsules and related patent owners that Rapinex 40mg does not infringe currently listed patents for Prilosec or that those patents are invalid.