BioXcel Therapeutics to Present at 2024 Jefferies Healthcare Conference

BioXcel Therapeutics, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company listed on Nasdaq under the ticker BTAI, is known for its innovative use of artificial intelligence in developing treatments in neuroscience and immuno-oncology. On May 28, 2024, the company announced that its CEO, Vimal Mehta, Ph.D., will present at the Jefferies Global Healthcare Conference in New York City. Scheduled for June 5 at 3 p.m. ET, the presentation will focus on BioXcel's late-stage clinical programs, particularly BXCL501, intended for the acute treatment of agitation linked to Alzheimer’s dementia, bipolar disorders, and schizophrenia. Dr. Mehta will be accompanied by Vincent J. O'Neill, M.D., Executive Vice President and Chief of Product Development and Medical Officer.

The presentation will be accessible via a live webcast, with materials available on the Events & Presentations page in the Investors & Media section of BioXcel’s website. A replay will be available for 90 days.

BXCL501, outside its approved use as IGALMI™ (dexmedetomidine) sublingual film, is an investigational formulation of dexmedetomidine designed to dissolve orally. This drug acts as a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist and is under investigation for treating acute agitation in patients with Alzheimer’s dementia, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia in a home setting. Its safety and effectiveness for these conditions are yet to be established. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted BXCL501 Breakthrough Therapy designation for dementia-related agitation and Fast Track designation for agitation associated with schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and dementia.

IGALMI™ is already approved for treating acute agitation in adults with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder I or II. It is administered under healthcare supervision by placing the film under the tongue or behind the lower lip. Its safety and effectiveness have not been studied beyond the first 24 hours post-administration, and it is not approved for use in children.

IGALMI™ can cause significant side effects, including decreased blood pressure, low blood pressure upon standing, and slower heart rates, especially in patients with conditions like low blood volume, diabetes, chronic high blood pressure, or those who are elderly. Healthcare providers will monitor vital signs and alertness to prevent falls or fainting after administration. Patients should remain hydrated and lie down if they feel dizzy or faint.

Additionally, IGALMI™ can cause heart rhythm changes (QT interval prolongation), which could lead to serious conditions like torsades de pointes and sudden death in patients with abnormal heart rhythms or who are taking certain medications. Patients should inform their healthcare providers if they experience heart palpitations or feel faint.

Other common side effects include drowsiness, prickling or tingling sensations in the mouth, dizziness, dry mouth, and low blood pressure. Patients should avoid activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving, for at least 8 hours after taking IGALMI™. There is also a risk of withdrawal reactions, tolerance, and decreased efficacy if used beyond 24 hours.

Patients are advised to disclose their full medical history to their healthcare providers, including heart problems, low potassium, magnesium levels, blood pressure issues, diabetes, fainting history, or liver impairment. They should also discuss any medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

BioXcel Therapeutics, Inc. utilizes AI to develop new treatments in neuroscience through its subsidiary, OnkosXcel Therapeutics, which focuses on immuno-oncology. The company’s approach re-innovates existing approved drugs and validated product candidates by leveraging big data and proprietary machine learning algorithms to identify new therapeutic applications.