> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.fdaweb.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Neurocrine’s NMDA Modulator Fails Phase 2 in Depression
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/neurocrines-nmda-modulator-fails-phase-2-in-depression/
- Published: 2025-11-11T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-14T15:26:19.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: Drugs, #legacy-id-D5160194

Neurocrine Biosciences is reporting that its Phase 2 study of NBI-1070770, an investigational NMDA receptor modulator for major depressive disorder (MDD), failed to meet its primary endpoint. The 73-patient, placebo-controlled trial tested three dose levels of the oral NR2B-selective negative allosteric modulator as adjunctive treatment. Neurocrine aimed to show improvement in depressive symptoms at Day 5 using the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale, a design intended to capture early antidepressant effects. According to the company, the drug did not outperform placebo on that measure.

Company officials say that while the endpoint miss is disappointing, they noted that some findings “warrant further exploration,” adding that Neurocrine will continue analyzing the data before deciding on next steps. They also note that the drug was generally well-tolerated in the study.

NBI-1070770, originally licensed from Takeda, is part of Neurocrine’s broader pipeline in neurological and psychiatric disorders. MDD affects more than 21 million people in the U.S., and about half of patients fail to achieve adequate relief from first-line treatment, according to Neurocrine.