Trevi Therapeutics (TRVI) is garnering attention from market analysts for its lead drug candidate Haduvio, particularly for its potential in treating cough associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Leerink Partners analyst Faisal Khurshid has reaffirmed a Buy rating for the company, setting a price target of $7.00.
The clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company's strategic focus on IPF-related cough represents a significant opportunity in addressing an unmet medical need. IPF cough, a challenging symptom for patients with the rare lung disease, currently lacks approved therapeutic options. The potential for orphan drug designation further strengthens Haduvio's commercial prospects in this indication.
Clinical Development Progress
The company is advancing its clinical program with the Phase 2a RIVER study focusing on refractory chronic cough (RCC). Market observers anticipate positive results from this trial, which could substantially validate Haduvio's therapeutic potential. The drug, a formulation of nalbuphine ER, is being evaluated for its efficacy in managing chronic cough symptoms.
Market Positioning and Competitive Landscape
While the IPF cough indication presents a clear path forward, Trevi's potential expansion into the broader RCC market faces more complex challenges. Success in this arena will require Haduvio to demonstrate compelling efficacy data, particularly in comparison to competing treatments such as camlipixant. Analysts suggest that meeting or exceeding the efficacy benchmarks set by competitors will be crucial for establishing Haduvio's position in the RCC market.
Investment Outlook
The positive sentiment around Trevi Therapeutics is further reinforced by Needham's parallel Buy rating, with an $8.00 price target. The company's focus on neurologically mediated conditions, including chronic pruritus and levodopa-induced dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease patients, demonstrates a diverse therapeutic pipeline beyond respiratory indications.
The risk-reward profile for Trevi appears favorable, supported by multiple analysts' positive assessments. The company's strategic positioning in the IPF cough space, combined with potential expansion opportunities, presents a compelling investment case despite the challenges in the competitive RCC market.
