OREX-004

OREX-004 was an investigational combination drug candidate developed by Orexigen Therapeutics for the treatment of obesity. The product consisted of the antidepressant and smoking cessation aid bupropion in combination with an undisclosed third-party compound. The program reached exploratory Phase IIa proof-of-concept clinical trials, where it was evaluated for its potential to induce weight loss through synergistic central nervous system activity. In 2008, Orexigen placed the OREX-004 program on hold to prioritize its more advanced late-stage obesity programs, Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) and Empatic (zonisamide/bupropion). The development of OREX-004 was never reinitiated, and the specific identity of the second active ingredient remained proprietary.