The combination of artefenomel (formerly known as OZ439) and ferroquine (FQ) has the potential to become the first of a new generation of antimalarials not based on artemisinin and therefore an important tool in the context of drug resistance. MMV and Sanofi are currently conducting a phase IIb programme to determine the safety and efficacy of the combination as a single-dose cure.

Dr Charles Wells, Head of Development/Associate Vice President, Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Area, Sanofi, USA, talks about the potential of artefenomel/FQ as a next-generation drug combination.

Artefenomel, a novel trioxolane, is a front-runner candidate for inclusion in a new antimalarial combination with ferroquine. The combination is being specifically formulated for children and to allow for once-daily dosing. However, achieving an equivalent efficacy and safety profile in fewer doses than current 3-day ACT regimens is a major challenge. In partnership with Sanofi, MMV is aiming to overcome that challenge. The combination is currently in a phase IIb trial, which is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2018.

Artefenomel, a novel trioxolane, is a lead candidate for inclusion in a new antimalarial combination with a simpler dosing regimen, specifically formulated for children. Achieving an equivalent efficacy and safety profile in fewer doses than current 3-day ACT regimens is a major challenge. In partnership with Sanofi, MMV is aiming to overcome that challenge and is conducting a phase IIb trial of artefenomel in combination with ferroquine.

Artefenomel Project Leader at MMV, Dr Marc Adamy describes the potential of this compound, its current status and future plans.

While ACTs are available and access to them is improving, MMV cannot rest on its laurels, but must continue to innovate and develop better medicines for uncomplicated malaria. There is a real need for medicines that are simpler and easier to take, such as a single-dose cure. Not only would such a medicine facilitate ‘directly observed therapy’, which would help to prevent the emergence of drug resistance, it would also reduce the cost of treatment.

The synthetic endoperoxide project was the very first discovery project taken into MMV’s portfolio back in 2000. Today, OZ439, one of the key molecules to emerge, and one of the next generation antimalarials, is on track to potentially replace artemisinin and become a part of the much-needed one-dose cure for malaria.