RTU announces phase 2 clinical trial results of UF-021 in patients with retinitis pigmentosa

Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCMP) today confirmed that its partner, R-Tech Ueno, Ltd. ("RTU") (Osaka Securities Exchange Hercules code: 4573), reported the results of its recently completed phase 2 clinical trial of UF-021 in retinitis pigmentosa patients. The results showed improvement in visual function dose-dependently in both visual field test and subjective findings. Furthermore, although there was an irritation upon instillation, there were no severe adverse effects.

“global pharmaceutical company specializing in specific fields (ophthalmology and dermatology) and selling and developing pharmaceutical products through the eyes of doctors.”

This was a multi-center, randomized, double blind, three parallel group, placebo controlled study conducted according to current Good Clinical Practice (cGCP). This phase 2 clinical study of UF-021 was conducted in 112 mid-stage to late-stage retinitis pigmentosa patients.

In April 2009, Sucampo licensed from RTU the development and commercialization rights to UF-021 for the United States and Canada, including all associated patents, improvements and other intellectual property owned, controlled and developed by RTU.

The data from this trial is undergoing further analysis and will be submitted to an appropriate scientific conference for presentation.

Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic disease characterized by progressive, irreversible vision loss and decreasing visual acuity. As RP progresses, daily life becomes increasingly more difficult. Blindness from all causes is among the most significant injuries to a patient's quality of life and is a major driver of patient-based cost of care and life-style maintenance. There are no drugs or therapeutic procedures currently approved for the treatment of RP today.