balicatib

Balicatib is a small molecule drug that acts as a potent and selective inhibitor of cathepsin K, a cysteine protease highly expressed by osteoclasts and involved in bone resorption. It was developed primarily for the treatment of osteoporosis and knee osteoarthritis. In clinical trials, balicatib demonstrated efficacy in increasing bone mineral density (BMD) at both the spine and hip, with effects comparable to bisphosphonates. However, its development was terminated during phase II trials due to adverse skin reactions, including rashes and morphea-like changes. The drug belongs to the class of benzamides and piperazines.

Other names

balicatibbalicatib [INN]