Merck MK-869

Substance P antagonist MK-869 (L-754,030) will be studied in a Phase III clinical trial for prevention of chemotherapy-induced emesis to begin this year, based on a Phase II trial published in the Jan. 21 New England Journal of Medicine ("The Pink Sheet" May 25, 1998, p. 25). A recent Phase II study in depression was "not definitive due to a high placebo response rate" but suggested activity at one dose, Merck said. The company is evaluating the development of MK-869 for depression and is commencing a Phase II trial for that indication with a backup Substance P antagonist