Vapogenix is a clinical-stage Houston-based company developing topical formulations of volatile anesthetics (VAs) as non-opioid, lidocaine-free analgesics. Its lead program is VPX638 (sevoflurane), part of a platform of patented VA formulations for localized treatment of painful conditions. The company reported successful Phase I SBIR studies with Texas Heart Institute showing analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, and a Phase 2 clinical trial last year demonstrated rapid onset, sustained pain relief, and reduced opioid use for wounds. Vapogenix holds a global intellectual property portfolio with 43 issued or allowed patents. The Phase II SBIR award will fund formulation development and characterization of anti-inflammatory and analgesic profiles in animal disease models to support an IND. Vapogenix is seeking additional funding and partners to advance clinical development and commercialization. Vapogenix develops a locally-acting, topical non-opioid analgesic based on volatile anesthetics, formulated into gels and liquids. The company intends to treat painful conditions including wounds, combat-related injuries, osteoarthritis, and muscular and inflammatory conditions. Vapogenix raised $8.2M in funding to advance its program. The proceeds are planned to begin a Phase 2 Proof-of-Concept study for Project AWARD (A Wound Analgesic with RapiD action) in 2017. Investors in the round included Pamoja Capital, prominent pain physicians and others. The company is led by CEO and Co-Founder Danguole Altman and Co-Founder and Scientific Advisory Board Chairman Allen Burton, MD. Vapogenix is developing a rapidly acting topical analgesic designed to penetrate skin within minutes. The company reformulates liquid anesthetics—typically vaporized inhalants used during surgery—into topical patches or liquids. Its lead program has progressed to Phase II trials, while products for wound and inflammatory pain remain at earlier stages. Vapogenix filed an IND with the FDA this week to advance clinical testing. Financially, regulatory filings disclose $2.1M in a recent financing; the company says it has raised $3M from high-net-worth individuals in a Series B set to close July 31, and holds a $2M grant from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund. Management says these funds are helping the company "come out of the Valley of Death."

Total raised

$15M

Funding rounds

3

Latest round

Grant

Latest activity

Nov 2020