Merck Drops One Migraine Program, Continues Another

Merck has updated the status of the clinical development programs for MK-0974 (telcagepant) and MK-3207, the company’s investigational oral calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists for the treatment of acute migraine.

Merck is discontinuing the clinical development program for MK-3207. While efficacy was demonstrated in a Phase II study with the drug, some subjects in extended Phase I pharmacology studies were found to have experienced delayed, asymptomatic liver test abnormalities, generally following discontinuation of drug administration.

For telcagepant, which is currently in Phase III development, the company is reviewing available clinical data in preparation for discussions with regulatory agencies planned for later this year.

“Merck believes that the blocking of CGRP receptors remains an exciting pathway to address the underlying pathophysiology of migraine,” said David Michelson, M.D., vice president of clinical neurosciences, Merck Research Laboratories. “We are continuing our efforts to offer patients a new treatment approach.”

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