Cinclus Pharma has finalized all third-party supplier contracts for its upcoming Phase III clinical trial of linaprazan glurate, marking a significant milestone in the development of this next-generation potassium competitive acid blocker (PCAB) for gastric acid-related diseases.
"In parallel with the preparations for the Phase III study, we are strengthening our presence and visibility in academia and the medical profession and intensifying the work for an upcoming commercialization," said Christer Ahlberg, CEO of Cinclus Pharma. "The first generation of potassium competitive acid blockers is taking over the market from the old proton pump inhibitors in the countries where they have been launched. With higher efficacy combined with strong patent protection, the market potential is extensive for linaprazan glurate – the next generation PCAB for gastric acid-related diseases."
Clinical Progress and Scientific Validation
In early April, Cinclus Pharma announced the publication of a scientific article featuring data from their Phase II study with linaprazan glurate. The results demonstrated a high percentage of cured patients with severe forms of erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (eGERD), providing strong support for the continued development of the drug candidate.
Further scientific validation came in early May when the company presented data at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2025 in San Diego. The presentations highlighted linaprazan glurate's effective acid inhibition capabilities and positive data on the optimized tablet formulation developed specifically for the Phase III studies and future commercialization.
Strategic Engagement with Medical Community
During the first quarter of 2025, Cinclus Pharma has actively engaged with the medical and investment communities through participation in several high-profile events. CEO Christer Ahlberg presented the company and its development of linaprazan glurate at the Carnegie Healthcare Conference and Swiss Nordic Bio 2025. The company also participated in the JP Morgan Healthcare conference in January and the 14th Expert Strategies in Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal and Liver Disorder meeting in Kansas City in February.
In a significant regulatory development, Cinclus Pharma held a scientific advisory meeting with the British National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in March regarding pricing and subsidy considerations for linaprazan glurate, indicating forward momentum in commercialization planning.
Financial Position
The company's financial results for Q1 2025 reflect its ongoing investment in research and development. Operating profit (EBIT) amounted to TSEK -47,519 compared to TSEK -36,273 in the same period last year. The result for the period was TSEK -33,672 with earnings per share before and after dilution at SEK -0.72.
Total cash flow for the period amounted to TSEK -42,133, with cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period standing at TSEK 523,899, providing sufficient runway for the company's planned clinical activities.
Market Opportunity
The gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) market represents a substantial opportunity for innovative treatments like linaprazan glurate. Current proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), while widely used, leave many patients with inadequate symptom control. The emergence of PCABs as a new therapeutic class offers potential advantages in terms of onset of action, duration of effect, and efficacy.
With the first generation of PCABs already gaining market share from traditional PPIs in markets where they have launched, Cinclus Pharma is positioning linaprazan glurate as a next-generation option with potentially superior efficacy and strong patent protection.
Looking Forward to Phase III
The completion of all third-party supplier contracts for the Phase III study represents a critical step toward the advanced clinical evaluation of linaprazan glurate. This upcoming trial will build on the promising Phase II results and further assess the drug candidate's safety and efficacy profile in patients with acid-related disorders.
As Cinclus Pharma transitions into this pivotal stage of development, the company continues to strengthen its scientific foundation while simultaneously laying groundwork for potential commercial success, engaging with regulatory authorities, and maintaining visibility within the medical community.
