Lexicon says IBS drug met mid-stage study goal

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THE WOODLANDS, Texas -Lexicon Pharmaceuticals Inc. said Friday an irritable bowel syndrome drug candidate met its goals in a mid-stage clinical trial.

The company said patients who took 1,000 milligrams of LX1031 four times per day had significantly less pain and discomfort from irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, compared to patients who took a placebo.

In the four-week study, 155 patients with non-constipation IBS took the drug four times per day, in doses of 250 milligrams or 1,000 milligrams. The company said side effects were similar for patients who took LX1031 and patients who took a placebo.

Results from the study will be presented at a medical conference on Nov. 25.

Lexicon plans to continue studying the drug. The news sent Lexicon shares up 12 cents, or 8.6 percent, to $1.51 in afternoon trading. The stock has ranged from 81 cents to $3.78 over the past year.

(This version CORRECTS dosage in 2nd paragraph.)

2009-11-13 14:51:01