SXC-2023

SXC-2023 is a novel, orally administered small molecule being developed by Promentis Pharmaceuticals for the treatment of psychiatric and neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly those involving glutamatergic dysfunction and oxidative stress such as trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other impulse control disorders[1][3][4]. The compound acts as an activator of System xc(-) (the cystine/glutamate antiporter), which exchanges extracellular cystine for intracellular glutamate. This mechanism is designed to restore glutamatergic neurotransmission and correct imbalances in oxidative stress by increasing intracellular cysteine—a precursor to the antioxidant glutathione—thereby potentially improving cortical function[1][4]. SXC-2023 has completed Phase 1 safety studies in healthy volunteers and is currently being evaluated in Phase 2 clinical trials for trichotillomania and other impulse control disorders[3][4]. It is also under investigation for its interaction with cocaine use disorder[2].