Clinical Trial Shows Drug Impact on Fragile X Syndrome

(A. Kotok)

A drug made by Seaside Therapeutics Inc. of Cambridge, Massachusetts  has shown results controlling symptoms of fragile X syndrome, an inherited disorder known to cause autism. The findings were reported  this past weekend at a meeting of the National Fragile X Foundation.

The results of the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 2 clinical trial showed subjects who were administered the Seaside Therapeutics drug STX209 score higher on most neuro-behavioral measures than than the placebo subjects. The subjects included pediatric patients with severe impairments of sociability.

The company’s announcement quotes Randi Hagerman M.D., one of the investigators, who said, “Physicians and parents are reporting increased sociability and communication and decreased outbursts and tantrums.” Hagerman adds in some cases, patients have been withdrawn from other medications, including mood stabilizers, anti-depressants and anti-psychotics.

The National Fragile X Foundation says fragile X syndrome is the most common cause of inherited mental impairment, which can range from learning disabilities to more severe cognitive or intellectual disabilities. Fragile X Syndrome is the most common known cause of autism or “autistic-like” behaviors that result in symptoms such as delays in speech and language development.