Metabolic launches Phase IIb trial

Melbourne-based Metabolic Pharmaceuticals (ASX:MBP) has commenced what it says is the largest clinical trial ever undertaken by an Australian biotech, a Phase IIb trial of its obesity drug, AOD9604.

The trial, with 300 "obese but otherwise health" participants, is being held at five sites in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, the company said. It said it had amassed a large database of would-be trial participants after an item about the trial was screened on Channel Nine's A Current Affair program.

The three-month trial aims to evaluate the extent of weight loss achieved with the drug compared to a placebo. Participants will be subjected to daily oral dosing throughout the trial. Other parameters to be measured will include fat mass, blood cholesterol, glucose metabolism and perceived quality of life.