SAN2219

SAN2219 (also referred to as SAN2219P) is an investigational small molecule drug candidate developed by Saniona for the treatment of epilepsy, including focal onset seizures and acute repetitive seizures. It functions as a selective positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of GABA-A receptors, specifically targeting the α2, α3, and α5 subunits. By avoiding the α1 subunit—which is associated with the sedative, motor-impairing, and addictive effects of traditional benzodiazepines—SAN2219 is designed to provide robust anti-seizure activity with a significantly improved safety and tolerability profile. Preclinical studies have demonstrated efficacy across multiple rodent models of focal and generalized seizures without causing sedation. As of early 2025, the program is in the preclinical stage, with GLP toxicology studies underway and clinical trials projected to commence in the first half of 2026.