Amgen, Cytokinetics Get Fast-Track Designation for Heart-Failure Treatment

By Matt Grossman

Amgen Inc. and Cytokinetics Inc. received fast-track designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for omecamtiv mecarbil, a potential treatment for chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, the companies said Friday.

The designation could expedite review of the treatment as the two pharmaceutical companies proceed with development.

The treatment is a selective cardiac myosin activator. Pre-clinical research has shown that it increases cardiac contractility without increasing intracellular myocyte calcium concentrations or myocardial oxygen consumption, the companies said.

The treatment is the subject of a Phase 3 clinical-trial program, the companies said. Amgen and Cytokinetics, both based in California, have worked together on treatments for heart conditions since 2006.

Write to Matt Grossman at matt.grossman@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

May 08, 2020 08:59 ET (12:59 GMT)

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