OptiNose’s breath-actuated devices deliver intranasal drugs to targeted regions of the nasal cavity, including the sinuses and the olfactory region, without lung deposition, a major problem for traditional nasal inhalers, nasal sprays or nebulizers.
OptiNose technology has significant market potential in several major disease areas. The company’s devices can deliver drug to the upper posterior segment of the nose where it can access the entrances to the sinuses to treat rhinitis and sinusitis. These conditions are inadequately resolved by current therapies because drug does not reach the intended site.
OptiNose technology can also target the olfactory region from which drugs are able to readily pass directly into the brain. This “nose to brain” delivery offers exciting opportunities for treating disorders of the central nervous system, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Additional applications are envisaged in the treatment of pain, migraine, and sexual dysfunction. The technology also has potential to improve mucosal vaccination responses and to deliver proteins and peptides without the need for a needle and syringe.
Founded in 2000, OptiNose has extensively tested the technology in both in-vitro and in-vivo deposition studies and concluded Phase I studies. The company has recently completed Phase II clinical studies with rhinosinusitis and migraine therapies. Results confirm the superiority of the technology as compared to traditional nasal sprays.
Current investors include: Andromeda-Fund BV, IKOS Invest AS, Inspire AS, Invictum AS, and WFD Ventures LLC.