By Fineline Cube 
US-based Eolas Therapeutics has entered into an agreement with its UK partner AstraZeneca (AZ, NASDAQ: AZN) to acquire full development rights to the investigational therapy AZD4041, a highly selective orexin-1 receptor antagonist. This move positions Eolas at the forefront of developing potential treatments for opioid use disorder (OUD) and other substance use disorders.
Drug Development Background
Previously co-developed by Eolas Therapeutics and AstraZeneca with support from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) in the United States, AZD4041 targets key neural circuits involved in addiction. The drug has demonstrated preliminary efficacy in preclinical and early-stage clinical studies.
Future Development Plans
Under the new agreement, Eolas Therapeutics will assume full responsibility for advancing AZD4041 to Phase II clinical trials. The program will continue to receive support from NIDA, ensuring sustained progress toward the goal of addressing unmet needs in the treatment of substance use disorders.-Fineline Info & Tech