Release Date: October 29, 2024
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Positive Points
- ZURZUVAE generated $22.1 million in total revenue in Q3 2024, representing a 49% growth over the second quarter.
- The company has achieved broad and favorable coverage for ZURZUVAE, with more than 90% of commercial and Medicaid lives covered.
- ZURZUVAE is being used as a first-line treatment for postpartum depression (PPD) by the majority of prescribers, particularly OB/GYNs.
- Sage Therapeutics Inc (SAGE, Financial) has expanded its sales force to further drive the growth of ZURZUVAE in the PPD market.
- The company is seeing increased demand for ZURZUVAE, with approximately 2,000 prescriptions filled in Q3, marking a 40% growth compared to the second quarter.
Negative Points
- Sage Therapeutics Inc (SAGE) has decided to discontinue the commercial availability of ZULRESSO after December 31, 2024, due to decreased demand.
- The Phase 2 LIGHTWAVE Study in Alzheimer's disease did not meet its primary endpoint, leading to the decision not to pursue further development in this area.
- Biogen has terminated its collaboration and license agreement for the SAGE-324 program, leaving Sage with full ownership but uncertain future investment.
- The company reported a net loss of $93.6 million for the third quarter of 2024.
- Sage Therapeutics Inc (SAGE) will not pursue further development of zuranolone for major depressive disorder in the US, focusing resources on PPD instead.
Q & A Highlights
Q: What insights can you provide on script trends following the sales force expansion?
A: Barry Greene, CEO, mentioned that the sales force was deployed in the fourth quarter and is operating effectively. However, it's too early to provide specific guidance or color on the impact of this expansion.
Q: Could you discuss the early-stage pipeline and any upcoming data or indications for SAGE-319?
A: Barry Greene, CEO, explained that the Specialty Pharma process for ZURZUVAE is improving, with efficient drug delivery to patients' homes. Laura Gault, CMO, highlighted SAGE-319 as an extra-synaptic preferring GABAA receptor modulator, currently in Phase 1, with potential differentiation from other GABA compounds.
Q: What evidence can you provide to generate excitement for the Huntington's disease readout?
A: Barry Greene, CEO, emphasized the strong start of ZURZUVAE in PPD and the potential of the early-stage pipeline. Laura Gault, CMO, noted the DIMENSION Study's scientific rationale, focusing on NMDA receptor modulation and the homogeneous patient population in Huntington's disease.
Q: Can you elaborate on the Talkiatry collaboration and its potential impact on PPD treatment through telehealth?
A: Barry Greene, CEO, and Chris Benecchi, CBO, explained that telehealth, including Talkiatry, provides timely access to care for mothers, expanding opportunities for engagement with healthcare professionals and managing postpartum depression.
Q: What is the timeline for unveiling promising early-stage assets, and will they focus on neuro or neuropsych disorders?
A: Laura Gault, CMO, stated that the company is evaluating its portfolio and will share details upon completion. Mike Quirk, CSO, added that the focus is on understanding neural circuits and endogenous pathways beyond GABA and NMDA receptors.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
