Jazz Pharma axes staffers after delaying two trials

Jazz Pharmaceuticals says it needs to extend the development time line for two key drug programs, a move that triggered a decision to lay off 33 workers, or eight percent of its workforce. In a statement, Jazz also said it is actively hunting out partners for its development programs. The biotech has delayed a planned Phase III of JZP-7 for restless leg syndrome and a planned Phase II trial of JZP-4, in development for epilepsy and bipolar disorder. The layoffs are targeted at the company's R&D and administrative areas.

CEO Samuel Saks said that Jazz is "actively seeking partners for several of our development programs. We have been pleased with the level of interest from potential partners and look forward to completing one or more development partnerships to help us bring these important therapies to the market as quickly as possible."

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