MediQuest Therapeutics

Controlling Inflammation and Infection Topically

MQX-503 Phase IIIa clinical trial results hold promise for millions suffering from Raynaud's Disease

(Bothell, WA - Nov. 13, 2006) Today MediQuest Therapeutics, Inc., a specialty pharmaceutical company, announced the results of its Phase IIIa clinical study of MQX-503 - a non-systemic, topical application designed to treat Raynaud's Disease - at the annual American College of Rheumatology (ACR) meeting in Washington D.C.

Vascana represents the first therapy designed specifically to treat the more than nine million patients in the U.S. suffering from Raynaud's Disease. The study findings concluded that MQX-503:

  • Rapidly increases blood flow. A significant improvement in blood flow was noted with both doses of study medication compared to placebo.
  • Is well tolerated in patients with Raynaud's Disease with minimal to no side effects. Side effects from the Phase IIIa study included headaches and dizziness and were similar to placebo.
  • May have clinical benefits in patients suffering from Raynaud's Disease.

MediQuest is a specialty pharmaceutical company developing 'first- and best-in-class' topical therapies in late stage clinical development to treat patients suffering from inflammatory and infectious skin diseases," said Dr. Fredrick J. Dechow, CEO. "MQX-503 is the first new, potential treatment option for Raynaud's Disease in more than 20 years. There is currently no pharmaceutical product specifically approved by the FDA for patients suffering from Raynaud's Disease."

Of the more than nine million people suffering from Raynaud's Disease in the U.S., 90 percent are women and one million people require year-round medical treatment for the disease.

"MQX-503 is a new therapy designed to treat an unmet clinical need," said Dr. Jeff Gregory, Chief Medical Officer of MediQuest Therapeutics. "Our clinical trial results are exciting because they show that the product works and that it's well tolerated by patients."

Because patients who participated in this study served as their own control, paired-difference statistical analysis may show even greater significant difference and improved result of MQX-503 over placebo.

Additional Phase III programs are underway in North America and Europe to test the therapy in patients in non-laboratory settings.