AVE0897

AVE0897 is an orally active, small molecule dual antagonist of the vasopressin V1a and V1b receptors. Developed by Sanofi (formerly Sanofi-Aventis), the compound was designed to treat stress-related psychiatric disorders by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Arginine vasopressin (AVP) plays a critical role in the regulation of the HPA axis, and overactivity of this system is often observed in patients with mood and anxiety disorders. By blocking both V1a and V1b receptors, AVE0897 was intended to provide a synergistic effect in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms. Despite reaching Phase 2 clinical trials for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, the development of AVE0897 was discontinued.