With phase III data due from Karuna Therapeutics Inc. with its combo Karxt therapy for schizophrenia, interest is rising in the historically difficult space. Karxt pairs xanomeline, a muscarinic receptor agonist that preferentially stimulates M1 and M4 muscarinic receptors, with trospium, an approved muscarinic receptor antagonist that does not measurably cross the blood-brain barrier, confining its effects to peripheral tissues.

Just two weeks after winning U.S. FDA approval for the first orally dissolving formulation of dexmedetomidine for agitation in schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, Bioxcel Therapeutics Inc. has secured commitments for up to $260 million to support the product’s commercial launch, slated for this quarter in addition to a planned European marketing application.

Impel Neuropharma Inc. presented multiple abstracts affirming the effectiveness of Trudhesa (dihydroergotamine mesylate) nasal spray in treating migraine attacks. The data – all subsets from the phase III, open-label, pivotal STOP-301 trial – show that acute use of Trudhesa delivered via Impel’s Precision Olfactory Delivery (POD) technology may enhance patients’ quality of life by reducing migraine-associated disability, prolonging headache-free periods and limiting the number of migraine attacks over time.

Results from a new peer-reviewed study show people develop emotional bonds with artificial intelligence (AI) therapy chatbots in a similar way to in-person therapists. The study evaluated 1,205 people using a mental health app developed by Wysa Ltd. to assist symptoms of anxiety or depression. The chatbot guides users through therapy exercises including cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, meditation, breathing and yoga to build mental resilience skills.

Akili Interactive Labs Inc. has made grabbing and holding attention a distinguishing feature of its digital therapeutics and overall company strategy. Last month, it made news with its hire of gaming industry veteran Jon David as its chief product officer. Now, a study indicates a new product in development may help people with depression extend their attention span and possibly improve cognition, two common symptoms associated with the mood disorder that are not treated by most medications.