Citius Pharmaceuticals expands scientific advisory board to enhance focus on infectious disease treatments

Citius Pharmaceuticals, a specialty pharmaceutical company based in New Jersey, has announced the addition of Dr. Lawrence Mermel to its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). Dr. Mermel, a Professor of Medicine at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, joins other prominent figures such as Dr. Mark Rupp and Dr. Isaam Raad, enhancing the board’s expertise particularly in the field of bloodstream infections.

The new members of the SAB are renowned experts in the field of bloodstream infections, particularly those related to catheters. Dr. Mermel, along with Dr. Rupp and Dr. Raad, bring a wealth of experience and recognition to Citius Pharmaceuticals. Their contributions span significant research in Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections (CRBSIs), authorship of major scientific and clinical papers, leadership in nationally recognized organizations, and substantial influence on treatment guidelines globally.

Citius Pharmaceuticals has tasked its SAB with guiding the development of its anti-infective portfolio, which includes promising technologies like Mino-Lok. Mino-Lok, currently a key focus of the company’s research, is designed to treat infections in Central Venous Catheters (CVCs), thereby avoiding the need for their replacement. This technology is particularly vital for patients with chronic diseases requiring continuous access for treatments like chemotherapy and dialysis.

Mino-Lok is an antibiotic lock solution that aims to salvage infected CVCs. It combines minocycline, edetate (disodium EDTA), and ethyl alcohol to break down bacterial biofilms, eradicate bacteria, and provide anti-clotting effects to maintain CVC patency. Currently under Phase 3 study, Mino-Lok represents a significant advancement in managing CRBSIs, offering a potential reduction in morbidity and mortality associated with CVC manipulation.

The addition of such high-caliber experts to the SAB is a strategic move by Citius Pharmaceuticals, aimed at bolstering its research and development capabilities in the anti-infective space. “We are honored to have such a prestigious group of experts to guide us,” said Myron Holubiak, CEO of Citius Pharmaceuticals. He emphasized the importance of their expertise in advancing the company’s development programs and driving the Phase 3 study of Mino-Lok.

With the strengthening of its SAB, Citius Pharmaceuticals is well-positioned to advance its research and potentially transform the treatment landscape for patients with CRBSIs. The expertise of the newly appointed members is expected to drive innovation and deliver solutions that meet critical unmet medical needs.