Phase I Trials of Thyroid Hormone Receptor Modulator for Obesity Halted

Karo Bio AB and Bristol-Myers Squibb said they have discontinued development of a thyroid hormone receptor modulator that the companies were working on to treat obesity.

The compound was in Phase I trials when continuing toxicology studies in animals revealed previously uncharacterized toxic metabolites in those given high doses of the compound, according to a spokesperson for Karo Bio.

"Even though the newly identified toxic metabolite will cause a delay of our program, we are encouraged by the fact that data thus far support the hypothesis that it is possible to increase metabolic rate and thereby induce weight reduction without causing side effects," said Bjorn O. Nilsson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Karo Bio. "We remain confident that the program has a high likelihood of success."

Other sources: Karo Bio