What is the drug thought to do in the body?

Increased levels of cortisol have been seen in people living with MND. High levels of cortisol can increase inflammation and be toxic to nerve cells, which are associated with MND. Dazucorilant blocks the glucocorticoid receptor, which normally binds to cortisol. Blocking cortisol from binding is thought to limit the consequences of increased cortisol exposure and potentially help slow disease progression. In early laboratory testing, Dazucorilant was found to improve motor performance, reduce neuroinflammation and muscular atrophy. 

Trial Outcome

The phase 2 trial (DAZALS) investigated the safety and efficacy of Dazucorilant by comparing the treatment to a placebo over 24-weeks. Corcept Therapeutics reported that the phase 2 clinical trial of Dazucorilant (DAZALS) did not meet its primary endpoint. This suggests that there was no significant change in ALSFRS-R (from baseline to 24-weeks) for those who received the treatment compared to those who received the placebo (dummy drug). The open label portion of the trial will continue until March 2025 to assess long-term effects of the drug. Further details on the trial outcome are expected in the coming months. 

Previous Clinical Trials

Phase 2 (DAZALS)

The phase 2 trial investigated the safety and efficacy of Dazucorilant by comparing the treatment to a placebo over 24-weeks. The trial was also testing different dosages (150 mg and 300mg), to find the best dose to take forward to further trials. 249 participants were recruited into the trial. Participants who completed the trial were able to continue into the open-label part of the trial, where all participants had the option to receive the treatment for a further 24-weeks.  Find out more on clinicaltrials.gov.

Latest News

2024

December 2024- Top-line results from the DAZALS trial were announced and the trial failed to meet it's primary endpoint.

April 2024 - The trial closed for recruitment. Top-line data is expected by the end of 2024. You can read more in a press release.

2023

April 2023 - The trial began recruiting in the UK.

Jan 2023 - The trial began recruiting in the Netherlands.

Last updated: 16/08/2024