NEW HAVEN - Biohaven Ltd. (NYSE: BHVN) (Biohaven or the Company), a global clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of life-changing therapies to treat a broad range of rare and common diseases, today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2023, and provided a review of recent accomplishments and anticipated upcoming developments.
Vlad Coric, M.D., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Biohaven, commented, 'We embarked on a bold execution plan after completing our spin-off, re-emerging as a separate entity focused on immunology, neuroscience, and oncology. In just over a year's time, we made tremendous strides in progressing our programs, providing impressive and supportive pre-clinical and clinical outcomes for our key stakeholders, including patients, who may gain access to differentiated drugs for difficult to treat medical conditions.
Today we are focused on delivering outcomes across five platforms spanning inflammation and immunology, ion channel modulation, myostatin inhibition, glutamate modulation, and oncology. In the year ahead, we expect to deliver potentially groundbreaking data across three distinct programs. In the near-term, we expect to report first-in-human Phase 1 IgG lowering data with our pan-IgG degrader, BHV-1300, with broad potential application. Given the profoundly deep and rapid reduction in IgG levels observed in non-human primate studies, unique ability to co-administer with Fc-containing biologics, ease of self-administration, and favorable toxicology profile observed to date, we are eagerly awaiting the proof-of-concept human data. We also plan to report OCD Phase 3 topline data in the second quarter of 2024 from an interim analysis with our glutamate modulating agent, troriluzole. There has been little to no innovation in advancing treatments for this disorder in decades and a win in this Phase 3 trial would be a substantial clinical success for the three million patients across the OCD community, many of whom are plagued by debilitating intrusive thoughts and compulsions. And finally, we're expecting Phase 3 topline data in the second half of the year with our anti-myostatin compound, taldefgrobep alfa, for patients with SMA.
Dr. Coric continued, 'Beyond data expectations, we are excited with the progress made across the balance of our portfolio, starting with our Kv7 ion channel activation program, where we have operationalized over 110 clinical trial sites in our focal epilepsy trials and are advancing development programs in generalized epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Excitement is also mounting for the potential of taldefgrobep alfa in weight loss, a compound that we believe will maintain and grow muscle mass as a means of helping to address the global obesity crisis. We also expect to deliver additional trial initiations across our broad IgG degrader program targeting both large indications and rare autoimmune/inflammatory diseases, TYK2/JAK1 inhibition in neuroinflammatory disorders, TRPM3 antagonism initially in migraine and neuropathic pain, and with our antibody drug conjugates program in an array of oncology indications. We are passionate about helping patients in need, and excited about our portfolio, the skilled drug development team we have in place, and the vast opportunity in the year ahead.'
Full Year and Recent Business Highlights
Ion Channel Platform - Milestones and Next Steps: Kv7 Ion Channel Activation: Epilepsy & Neuropsychiatric Indications
BHV-7000, the lead asset from the Kv7 platform, is a selective activator of Kv7.2/Kv7.3, a key ion channel involved in regulation of neuronal signaling and hyperexcitability.
Reported BHV-7000 Phase 1 study results: In December 2023, the Company reported full results from the BHV-7000 Phase 1 SAD and multiple ascending dose (MAD) studies examining doses up to 120mg daily, demonstrating BHV-7000 was well-tolerated at all doses studied without the typical central nervous system (CNS) adverse effects associated with other anti-seizure medications (ASMs), such as somnolence and cognitive/mood disturbances. Results were consistent with previously reported preclinical data demonstrating BHV-7000's lack of GABAA receptor activation and lack of adverse impacts on neurobehavior in preclinical testing.
Demonstrated CNS target engagement: In December 2023, the Company reported additional data from a Phase 1 electroencephalogram (EEG) biomarker study, where BHV-7000 demonstrated dose-dependent target engagement in the brain as shown by dose-dependent effects on EEG spectral power across all frequency bands. While changes in spectral power were observed across all frequency bands with BHV-7000, the minimal impact on slower frequencies (i.e., delta) is consistent with the low incidence of CNS adverse events observed in the BHV-7000 Phase 1 SAD/MAD studies. EEG delta activity is associated with somnolence, an undesirable CNS adverse event commonly reported with other ASMs.
Developed once-daily formulation: In September 2023, the Company announced it had formulated an extended release, once-a-day tablet designed to achieve target therapeutic concentrations (25mg, 50mg and 75mg). This dosing approach with a Kv7 activator will allow for assessment of distinct target concentrations over a wide range, above and below projected efficacious EC50 drug concentrations, not previously feasible with drugs in this class.
Sites operationalized: In January 2024, the Company completed its End-of-Phase 2 meeting with FDA to advance to Phase 3 trials and announced that more than 110 global clinical sites have been selected in the ongoing focal epilepsy trial, with enrollment planned for 1Q 2024.
Upcoming trial initiations: The Company expects to initiate Phase 2/3 programs in focal epilepsy in 1Q 2024 and in generalized epilepsy in 2Q 2024; the Company also expects to initiate a Phase 2 study in major depressive disorder and a Phase 2/3 study in bipolar disorder in 1H 2024.
TRPM3 Ion Channel Antagonism: Migraine & Neuropathic Pain
BHV-2100 is an oral, selective TRPM3 antagonist offering a novel, non-addictive treatment for migraine and neuropathic pain.
Phase 1 study data supports evaluation in acute migraine: In January 2024, the Company detailed preliminary pharmacokinetic (PK) and safety data from an ongoing Phase 1 study; in the study, BHV-2100 was rapidly absorbed, achieved 90% inhibitory concentrations within one hour, and was well tolerated at projected therapeutic concentrations
Upcoming trial initiations: The Company expects to initiate a BHV-2100 Phase 2 study in acute migraine in 2H 2024 and conduct a POC study for neuropathic pain in 2H 2024.
Inflammation and Immunology Platform - Milestones and Next Steps:
Targeted Extracellular Protein Degradation
Molecular Degraders of Extracellular Proteins (MoDEs) uniquely harness the hepatic ASGPR receptor for efficient and safe removal of circulating pathogenic targets; BHV-1300, is an IgG degrader.
Reported on progress with BHV-1300: The Company has demonstrated the effect of a single dose of BHV-1300 in lowering IgG in nonhuman primates (NHPs), previously reporting over 75-80% reduction of IgG levels from baseline in three days. These data compare favorably to other IgG targeting agents, such as the FcRn inhibitor efgartigimod, where reduction of IgG levels, following a single dose, was shown to be approximately 50% in 5-7 days. In September 2023, the Company announced positive multiple dose, pharmacodynamic (PD) data from a NHP study with BHV-1300 demonstrating dose-dependent reductions of over 90% in IgG levels from baseline, suggesting the potential for achieving greater efficacy with finely calibrated, deeper IgG reductions as compared with existing standard of care FcRn targeting treatments.
Demonstrated potential for same-day, co-administration with Fc-containing biologics: In January 2024, the Company presented new NHP data demonstrating that Biohaven's IgG degrader technology allows for co-administration with Fc-containing biologics; PK of Humira was unaltered after being dosed 12 hours after BHV-1300 administration.
Reported preclinical pharmacodynamic data with single dose of BHV-1310: In January 2024, the Company showed that a next generation and optimized IgG degrader, BHV-1310, allowed for much deeper 90% reductions in IgG after a single dose. Given the deep and rapid reductions observed, the Company believes BHV-1310 may have potential application in acute settings.
Unveiled plans for BHV-1600: next-generation, selective degrader targeting 1-AR autoantibodies: In January 2024, the Company reported preclinical data demonstrating degradation of anti-1AR antibody in mice. The Company expects to file an IND application and initiate a first-in-human Phase 1 study in 2H 2024. BHV-1600 will initially be evaluated in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.
Near-term data expected: The Phase 1 SAD study examining BHV-1300 in healthy subjects was initiated in 1Q 2024 and the Company expects preliminary results in late 1Q 2024/early 2Q 2024. The FDA indicated that the MAD assessment of BHV-1300 should be performed in a relevant patient population. Upon completion of the SAD study, Biohaven is planning the MAD portion of the study in a relevant patient population with the possibility of benefit from BHV-1300.
Fourth Quarter 2023 Financial Highlights
Research and Development (R&D) Expenses: R&D expenses, including non-cash share-based compensation costs, were $134.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, compared to $137.0 million for the three months ended December 31, 2022. The decrease of $2.2 million was primarily due to decreased non-cash share-based compensation expense during the three months ended December 31, 2023, and $5.2 million of one-time employee costs related to the Pfizer acquisition of Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Company Ltd. (the Former Parent) in the fourth quarter of 2022. This was partially offset by increased costs related to advancing additional clinical development program activities, including late Phase 2/3 studies and preclinical research programs, and recognition of one-time expenses of a $10.0 million cash payment and a $21.8 million non-cash issuance of common shares to acquire rights related to our agreement with Highlightll in the three months ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in the prior year. Non-cash share-based compensation expense was $9.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, a decrease of $60.3 million as compared to the same period in 2022. The decrease was primarily due to $61.7 million of expense allocated from the Former Parent recognized in connection with the settlement of outstanding Former Parent stock options and restricted stock units (RSUs) upon the effectiveness of the Former Parent's distribution to holders of all outstanding common shares of Biohaven and the spin-off of Biohaven from the Former Parent (the Separation) in the fourth quarter of 2022.
General and Administrative (G&A) Expenses: General and administrative expenses were $18.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, compared to $76.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2022. The decrease of $57.5 million was primarily due to decreased non-cash share-based compensation expense during the three months ended December 31, 2023, and $8.2 million of transaction-related expenses and $8.9 million of one-time employee costs related to the Pfizer acquisition of the Former Parent in the fourth quarter of 2022. Non-cash share-based compensation expense was $6.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, a decrease of $39.5 million as compared to the same period in 2022. The decrease was primarily due to $39.7 million of expense allocated from the Former Parent recognized in connection with the settlement of outstanding Former Parent stock options and RSUs upon the effectiveness of the Separation in the fourth quarter of 2022.
Other Income (Expense), Net: Other income (expense), net was a net income of $7.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, compared to a net expense of $1.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2022. The increase of $9.6 million was primarily due to a $10.0 million impairment loss recognized during the fourth quarter of 2022 on our Artizan Series A-2 Preferred Stock Investment.
Net Loss: Biohaven reported a net loss for the three months ended December 31, 2023, of $144.8 million, or $1.81 per share, compared to $201.1 million, or $3.32 per share, for the same period in 2022. Non-GAAP adjusted net loss for the three months ended December 31, 2023 was $128.9 million, or $1.61 per share, compared to $77.3 million, or $1.27 per share for the same period in 2022. These non-GAAP adjusted net loss and non-GAAP adjusted net loss per share measures, more fully described below under 'Non-GAAP Financial Measures,' exclude non-cash share-based compensation charges and transaction-related costs incurred relating to the Company's spin-off from Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Company Ltd.
About Biohaven
Biohaven is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of life-changing treatments in key therapeutic areas, including immunology, neuroscience, and oncology. The company is advancing its innovative portfolio of therapeutics, leveraging its proven drug development experience and multiple proprietary drug development platforms. Biohaven's extensive clinical and preclinical programs include Kv7 ion channel modulation for epilepsy and mood disorders; extracellular protein degradation for immunological diseases; TRPM3 antagonism for migraine and neuropathic pain; TYK2/JAK1 inhibition for neuroinflammatory disorders; glutamate modulation for OCD and SCA; myostatin inhibition for neuromuscular and metabolic diseases, including SMA and obesity and antibody recruiting, bispecific molecules and antibody drug conjugates for cancer.
Forward-looking Statements
This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The use of certain words, including 'continue', 'plan', 'will', 'believe', 'may', 'expect', 'anticipate' and similar expressions, is intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the future development, timing and potential marketing approval and commercialization of development candidates, are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Actual results, developments and events may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors including: the expected timing, commencement and outcomes of Biohaven's planned and ongoing clinical trials; the timing of planned interactions and filings with the FDA; the timing and outcome of expected regulatory filings; complying with applicable U.S. regulatory requirements; the potential commercialization of Biohaven's product candidates; the potential for Biohaven's product candidates to be first in class therapies and the effectiveness and safety of Biohaven's product candidates.
Contact:
Jennifer Porcelli
Email: jennifer.porcelli@biohavenpharma.com
Tel: +1 (201) 248-0741
Mike Beyer
Email: mikebeyer@sambrown.com
Tel: +1 (312) 961-2502
BIOHAVEN PHARMACEUTICAL HOLDING COMPANY LTD. 
