Lanicemine (DB11889): A Comprehensive Pharmacological and Clinical Development Profile

1. Introduction to Lanicemine

1.1. Overview and Chemical Properties

Lanicemine is an investigational small molecule drug, identified by the DrugBank Accession Number DB11889, which has been the subject of numerous clinical trials, primarily focusing on its potential as a treatment for depressive disorders.[1] Its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry Number is 153322-05-5 for the free base form.[2]

Lanicemine is known by several synonyms, reflecting its journey through different stages of development and by various research groups. These include AZD6765, its development code under AstraZeneca; AR-R 15896AR, an earlier development designation; (αS)-phenyl-2-pyridineethanamine, its chemical name; and BHV-5500, the code used by Biohaven Pharmaceuticals.[1] The dihydrochloride salt form of Lanicemine is also documented, with CAS Number 153322-06-6.[19]

The molecular formula for the free base of Lanicemine is C13​H14​N2​.[1] Its average molecular weight is approximately 198.269 g/mol, often rounded to 198.27 g/mol.[1] The dihydrochloride salt form has a molecular weight of 271.19 g/mol.[19]

In its physical form, Lanicemine free base has been described as a neat oil.[2] The dihydrochloride salt is typically an off-white to light yellow solid.[19] Regarding solubility, the free base form is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and dimethylformamide. The dihydrochloride salt exhibits good solubility in DMSO and water, with aqueous solubility reported as ≥100 mg/mL.[2] Specific solubility data indicates approximately 20 mg/mL in ethanol, 30 mg/mL in DMSO, and 5 mg/mL in dimethylformamide for the free base, and ≥100 mg/mL in water and 240 mg/mL in DMSO (requiring sonication) for the dihydrochloride salt.[2]

Table 1: Lanicemine Identifiers and Basic Properties