Stromedix drug candidate gets orphan designation

Globe Staff

Cambridge biotechnology company Stromedix Inc. said that the Food and Drug Administration has granted orphan drug status to STX-100, the company's drug candidate for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, or IPF.

Orphan drug designation is granted to drug candidates that seek to treat rare diseases and disorders. If orphan-designated drug candidates ultimately win FDA approval, their companies gain a number of advantages, including seven years of market exclusivity in the United States.

In a press release, Stromedix said it is planning to initiate a Phase 2 clinical trial of STX-100 in IPF patients in 2011.