Breakthrough Drug IHL-42X Shows 83% Reduction in Severe Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Incannex Healthcare Inc. has made progress with its experimental drug IHL-42X, designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The condition affects millions globally and is linked to severe health risks, including heart disease and stroke. Stonegate Capital Partners recently updated its coverage, highlighting the drug's potential as an alternative to current treatments like CPAP machines or surgery.
In a Phase 2 trial called RePOSA, IHL-42X demonstrated promising results. Both low and high doses led to statistically significant reductions in the Apnea-Hypopnoea Index (AHI) compared to a placebo. The high dose achieved reductions of up to 83%, showing a substantial improvement in sleep apnea severity.
Patient feedback was also positive. Over half of the participants—57.6%—reported noticeable improvements in their condition, describing the changes as meaningful to their daily lives. The drug maintained a strong safety profile, with no serious adverse events recorded in either dose group.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted IHL-42X fast track designation. This status speeds up the review process for treatments targeting serious conditions with limited options. Incannex's financial position remains solid, with $68.9 million in cash and equivalents available to fund ongoing clinical work.
Meanwhile, the company's other pipeline candidate, PSX-001, has also delivered encouraging Phase 2 results. The progress of IHL-42X could eventually provide a much-needed pharmaceutical solution for OSA patients seeking alternatives to existing therapies.
The latest findings suggest IHL-42X may offer a viable treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. With FDA fast track support and strong trial outcomes, the drug moves closer to addressing a significant unmet medical need. Incannex continues to advance its clinical programs with sufficient funding in place.