Neurosterix NTX-253 Schizophrenia Drug Phase 1 Trial on Track for Q2 2026 Completion

Key Takeaways

• Neurosterix, an Addex Therapeutics spin-out, confirms Phase 1 trial of NTX-253 for schizophrenia remains on track for Q2 2026 completion
• NTX-253 represents a novel small molecule allosteric modulator approach to treating neurological disorders including schizophrenia
• Successful Phase 1 completion would advance NTX-253 toward Phase 2 trials, potentially offering new treatment options for schizophrenia patients

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Neurosterix Advances Schizophrenia Treatment Development

Geneva, Switzerland - Neurosterix, a spin-out company from clinical-stage biopharmaceutical firm Addex Therapeutics (SIX: ADXN, Nasdaq: ADXN), announced April 23, 2026, that its Phase 1 clinical study of NTX-253 for schizophrenia treatment remains on schedule for completion in Q2 2026.

The announcement, made pursuant to Art. 53 LR regulations, provides an update on the experimental drug’s progress through early-stage human testing. NTX-253 represents part of Addex’s broader portfolio of novel small molecule allosteric modulators designed to treat neurological disorders.

Clinical Development Timeline and Implications

Phase 1 trials primarily focus on evaluating drug safety, dosage ranges, and identifying side effects in small groups of participants. Successful completion of this phase would position NTX-253 to advance into Phase 2 efficacy trials, where researchers would test the drug’s effectiveness in larger patient populations.

The schizophrenia treatment market represents a significant medical need, affecting approximately 1% of the global population. Current antipsychotic medications often come with substantial side effects, creating demand for innovative therapeutic approaches like allosteric modulators.

Market Position and Future Outlook

Addex Therapeutics’ decision to spin out Neurosterix reflects a strategic approach to developing specialized neurological treatments. This structure allows focused development of NTX-253 while maintaining connection to Addex’s broader research capabilities and resources.

The Q2 2026 timeline positions Neurosterix to potentially enter Phase 2 trials by late 2026 or early 2027, assuming positive Phase 1 results. This timeline aligns with typical drug development schedules for novel psychiatric medications, though regulatory approval would still require several additional years of clinical testing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this mean for schizophrenia patients?

While NTX-253 is still in early Phase 1 testing, successful development could eventually provide a new treatment option with potentially fewer side effects than current antipsychotic medications. However, the drug is years away from potential market availability.

When will NTX-253 be available to patients?

NTX-253 must complete Phase 1 (Q2 2026), then Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials, followed by regulatory review. If all phases succeed, the earliest potential availability would likely be 2030-2032, though many experimental drugs don’t reach market.

How does NTX-253 differ from existing schizophrenia treatments?

NTX-253 is a small molecule allosteric modulator, which works differently than traditional antipsychotic medications. This novel mechanism could potentially offer improved efficacy or reduced side effects, though clinical data is still being collected.