R&D Pipeline

mdc-TJK is an investigational once-monthly subcutaneous long-acting injection of the atypical antipsychotic olanzapine for the treatment of schizophrenia. It has the potential to be the first long-acting olanzapine with a favorable safety profile as other LAIs of olanzapine have an FDA black box warning for PDSS (Postinjection Delirium/Sedation Syndrome) that limits their use.

Injected into the intra-articular space during Total Knee Replacement surgery and potentially active for as long as three months post-surgery, mdc-CWM is a sustained-release formulation of celecoxib for the reduction of postoperative pain and inflammation. The mdc-CWM project is a collaboration with Arthritis Innovation Corporation (AIC), based in Toronto, Canada, who fiance and conduct the clinical development activities.

mdc-WWM could be the first contraceptive to combine the following essential features to make it a best-in-class product worldwide: progestin molecule (non-MPA), 6-month duration, subcutaneous injection, full bio-resorption and affordability. Preclinical activities and phase 1 clinical studies are funded by a grant of up to $19 million from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The Global Access strategy, jointly pursued by Medincell and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to make a significant impact on women’s lives by ensuring widespread availability of the product. Affordable pricing in emerging economies will eliminate cost barriers, thereby enhancing availability and voluntary access. Furthermore, the Gates Foundation holds a non-exclusive license for the non-commercial market in low- and middle-income countries.

Malaria remains pandemic in 91 countries representing 50% of the world’s population. According to WHO estimates, 228 million people were infected worldwide in 2018, 93% of them in Africa, leading to 405,000 deaths. Children under 5 years are the most vulnerable, accounting for 67% of deaths from malaria.

Administered at the beginning of the transmission season, the 3-month ivermectin formulation could have a significant epidemiological impact. This is supported by the results of preliminary in vivo studies conducted in Burkina Faso by IRD, IRSS, CIRDES and MedinCell. MedinCell has been collaborating for more than 10 years with these three French and Burkinabe research institutes, engaged together for more than 40 years in the fight against malaria. They provide theoretical and practical expertise and the essential infrastructure to support the development of a 3-month active injectable ivermectin.

To ensure equitable access to health products in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and to have a significant impact on the most vulnerable populations, MedinCell will grant a non-exclusive license to the Medicines Patent Pool to ensure distribution of the final product via the public sector in LMICs.