Ranexa is believed to exert its effect on the heart by partial inhibition of fatty acid oxidation (pFOX inhibition). Pre-clinical studies have suggested that pFOX inhibition alters heart myocardial cell metabolism in such a way as to increase its efficiency and, in effect, to require less oxygen to do a given amount of work.

Angina as a disease occurs when an imbalance exists between the heart’s energy demands and the coronary vasculature’s ability to deliver oxygen. Chronic angina is usually associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and is characterized by repeated, often debilitating episodes of chest pain. The American Heart Association reports that 6.8 million Americans suffer more than 700 million angina attacks per year in the United States. Current anti-anginal therapies include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitroglycerin.

CV Therappeutics has yet to complete or publicly release the results of the pivotal Phase III trials required for FDA approval of Ranexa. However, given the high incidence and prevalence of chronic angina in North America, innovative technologies effective in treating this condition have the potential to significantly alter, if not transform, the anti-anginal landscape. Bearing this in mind, Biohorizon has designated Ranexa as a High Impact Technology but is recommending no preliminary assessment activities until more clinical trial data become available.

Technology Details
Target Disease / Indication: Chronic Angina
Technology Classification: Drug
Body System: Cardiovascular System
Program Area: Medicine/Cardiology
Regulatory Status: Phase III
BioHorizon Impact Score: 75/100 – High