Merck puts HIV development program on hold

Canada's Ambrilia Biopharma says that Merck has placed the development program for the HIV therapy--MK-8122--on hold as it focuses on basic science efforts to evaluate other PL-100 prodrugs and formulation options. Ambrilia says that Merck is also exploring possible back-up compounds.

"Ambrilia believes in the potential of PPL-100/MK-8122 and related compounds to offer advantages to HIV patients over the currently commercialized protease inhibitors," said Dr. Philippe Calais, the CEO of Ambrilia. "Our partnership with Merck continues and we look forward to further progress on potential back-up compounds." Dr. Calais continued, "Both companies remain focused on the partnership and determined to provide the best compounds available to help people with HIV/AIDS."

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