nerispirdine hydrochloride

Nerispirdine hydrochloride (HPP 432) is an investigational small molecule drug developed by Sanofi (formerly Aventis) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). It is a novel analogue of 4-aminopyridine (dalfampridine) that acts as a use-dependent blocker of both axonal voltage-gated potassium (K+) channels and neuronal voltage-gated sodium (Na+) channels. By inhibiting K+ channels, nerispirdine aims to restore nerve impulse conduction in demyelinated axons, thereby improving motor functions such as walking speed. The addition of Na+ channel blockade is intended to provide neuroprotective effects and mitigate the proconvulsant activity typically associated with pure K+ channel blockers. The compound also enhances the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. Nerispirdine reached Phase 2 clinical development, including a 14-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in Spain evaluating doses of 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg in MS patients with walking disability, but development was subsequently discontinued.

Other names

nerispirdinenerispirdine hydrochloride