Axsome Begins Phase III Study on AXS-05 for Smoking Cessation

Axsome Therapeutics (NASDAQ:AXSM) presented at the H.C. Wainwright Conference, highlighting growth for Auvelity, with estimated peak sales of over $8 billion. Sunosi and SYMBRAVO also showed potential, with peak sales estimates of $300M-$500M and $500M-$1B, respectively. The company has multiple pipeline milestones and expects annual NDA filings through 2031. Axsome reported $320M in cash and expects profitability soon.

AXSM reported Q2 revenue growth of 46% YoY to $218.4M, driven by Auvelity's performance. The company has seven ongoing trials and an NDA under review, with product exclusivity extending into the 2030s and 2040s. This data was presented at the H.C. Wainwright 28th Annual Global Investment Conference.

Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM) dosed the first patient in a Phase 3 trial (SUMMIT) for AXS-05 in smoking cessation. The trial compares AXS-05 to bupropion and placebo, with abstinence at week 12 as the primary endpoint. Success could expand AXS-05's use and leverage its patent estate until 2043. Analysts project $2.5B revenue and $908.3M earnings by 2029, but risks include cash burn and trial execution.

Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM) shares rose 6% after Mizuho analyst cited strong August prescription data for Auvelity, its drug for Alzheimer's agitation. New prescriptions increased 32% from July. The analyst maintains an 'Outperform' rating with a $316 price target. Auvelity's Alzheimer's launch is key to the company's growth, with Q2 sales of $180.3M, up 51% YoY.

Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM) has initiated a Phase 3 trial for AXS-05 in smoking cessation, aiming to expand its use beyond existing approvals. The trial's success could enhance the company's long-term outlook, though near-term focus remains on commercializing Auvelity, Sunosi, and SYMBRAVO. Analysts project varying revenue and earnings forecasts for 2029, with some seeing significant upside.

Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM) dosed the first patient in its Phase 3 SUMMIT trial for AXS-05 as a smoking cessation treatment. The study will assess efficacy and safety over 12 weeks. AXS-05 is approved for other uses but not yet for smoking cessation. The company holds patents for the drug until at least 2043. Smoking affects 34 million adults in the U.S., costing over $300 billion annually.