On the 15th, TAHO Pharmaceuticals announced the launch of a development program for the sublingual dissolving film antidote M-101, commissioned by U.S.-based Mithradote Bio. This innovative drug is the world’s first preventive medication designed for emergency self-rescue by victims. With its rapid dissolution, fast onset of action, and convenient portability, it holds significant market potential.
M-101 is an antidote targeting benzodiazepines (BZDs) and Z-drugs (zopiclone, zolpidem, and zaleplon). It is designed to be carried for protection against drink spiking or drug-facilitated sexual assault. In cases where a victim begins to feel disoriented or slips into unconsciousness after consuming a spiked drink, placing the antidote under the tongue can quickly alleviate symptoms and prevent further harm, such as sexual assault.
Commonly used drugs for drink spiking are central nervous system depressants, often powerful sedatives that induce sleep rapidly. Current antidotes are typically injectable formulations. In contrast, TAHO’s sublingual dissolving film offers fast action, portability, and ease of use for self-rescue during emergencies. By shifting from hospital-administered injections to a self-carried preventive solution, this product is expected to unlock significant market potential.
Drink spiking has become a growing issue worldwide. According to a 2023 gov.uk survey, 10% of women and 5% of men reported experiencing drink spiking, though the actual number of unreported cases is likely much higher. The average age of victims is 26, with 76% being women. Currently, there are no self-rescue medications available on the market, making TAHO’s sublingual dissolving film antidote a highly anticipated development.
Chairman Howard Lee emphasized that Mithradote Bio’s commission of TAHO to develop M-101 highlights the company’s robust platform technology and proven regulatory capabilities. He expressed the company’s openness to further collaborations and commissioned development projects, leveraging strategic partnerships to accelerate drug availability and address patient needs effectively.
TAHO Pharmaceuticals is actively advancing multiple drug development programs. Its 505(b)(2) NDA thrombolytic oral dissolving film is in Phase III clinical trials, while its world-first buccal film formulation of the opioid antidote naloxone has completed Phase I trials.
Additionally, TAHO’s generic drug TAH4411, a chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) oral dissolving film, has obtained marketing approval in Japan and is the first product of its kind in the country. The sublingual dissolving film TAH2211, designed for opioid addiction treatment, has also completed Phase I trials and is currently under licensing discussions. To date, TAHO has secured two commissioned development projects from international biotech companies, generating revenue and affirming its position as a leader in innovative drug delivery systems.
Resource: 泰合攜手美國Mithradote Bio 啟動舌下口溶膜解毒劑開發計畫
