Emyria Shares Interim Success in PTSD Treatment Program
Released
Released
Announcement PDF
Delivering & developing new treatments for mental
health & neurological conditions
ASX Announcement | 02 Sept 2024
Emyria Announces Promising Interim Clinical Results for PTSD
Program, Highlighting Significant Market Potential and Strategic
Expansion Plans
HIGHLIGHTS
Interim analysis of the first eight patients completing Emyria's MDMA-assisted therapy
(MDMA-AT) program for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has demonstrated all
patients achieved substantial improvement in PTSD symptoms, with a clinically and
statistically significant average reduction of 33 points in PCL-5 scores.
All patients reported substantial gains in quality of life, with a mean improvement of 22
points on the ReQoL scale, highlighting the broad impact of Emyria’s MDMA-AT program
beyond symptom relief.
Emyria continues to evolve its leading care programs by actively collecting and applying
Real-World Data, setting the standard for PTSD care and reinforcing its global leadership in
developing promising new mental health treatments.
Emyria plans to leverage existing revenues to fund the expansion of its programs and is
actively engaging with private hospitals and third-party payers to broaden access and
secure reimbursement.
Findings to be presented this week by Emyria’s Lead Psychiatrist, Dr Jon Laugharne, at the
WA Branch Conference of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of
Psychiatrists Fri (6th Sep) & Sat (7th Sep)
Emyria Limited (ASX: EMD) (“Emyria”, or the “Company”) delivering and developing new
treatments for mental health and select neurological conditions, is pleased to announce
promising interim clinical results from analysis of its MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) for
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) program which commenced in October 2023. 1
Early findings are from an initial cohort of eight patients with moderate to severe PTSD
symptoms (as measured using the PCL-5) and who were getting limited relief from standard
treatment prior to enrollment. All eight patients completed Emyria’s comprehensive
program at Emyria’s Empax Centre and demonstrated substantial improvement in patient
outcomes at the end of their active treatment.
Clinically and statistically significant improvements were observed in PTSD symptoms and
quality of life, as measured by PCL-5 and ReQoL assessments, respectively highlighting the
program’s potential to address significant unmet needs in PTSD care. An additional five
patients are currently enrolled and undergoing treatment, with the program progressing
towards its recruitment goal of 70 initial patients.
Emyria ASX Announcement | 02 Sep 2024
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Significant PTSD Symptom Reduction
Emyria’s MDMA-AT program has shown an average reduction of 33 points in PCL-5 scores—a
critical measure of PTSD severity—demonstrating that patients experience significant
symptom relief. Encouragingly, all participants achieved clinically meaningful improvements
(a PCL-5 change > 12 points) 2, with many reaching PCL-5 scores below 30, a key threshold
indicating substantial symptom reduction. Improvements were also statistically significant.
A detailed program overview is provided below.
Mean PCL-5 Scores: Baseline vs Post-Treatment
Figure 1: Mean Percentage Improvement in PCL-5 Scores
This chart illustrates the mean percentage improvement in PCL-5 scores among patients undergoing
MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) for PTSD comparing the assessment taken before treatment (“Baseline”) to
at least 1 month after the end of the program (“Post-treatment”). The significant reduction in PCL-5 scores
demonstrates the effectiveness of Emyria’s program in alleviating PTSD symptoms, highlighting its potential as a
treatment option. The PCL-5 is a self-administered, 20-item self-report tool used to measure PTSD symptoms
according to diagnostic DSM-5 criteria (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition).
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Mean Change in PCL-5 Scores: 33.1 points
95% Confidence Interval for Mean Change: (20.96, 45.29) points
Paired t-test: p-value = 0.0011 (statistically significant improvement)
Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test: p-value = 0.0078 (statistically significant improvement)
Patients Experiencing Clinically Significant Improvement: All patients in this cohort achieved a
clinically significant improvement (a reduction of 12 points or more in their PCL-5 scores).1
Emyria ASX Announcement | 02 Sep 2024
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Significant Quality of Life Enhancements
Additionally, ReQoL quality of life measures improved by an average of 22 points,
highlighting the broad impact of Emyria’s MDMA-AT on patients’ overall well-being.
Mean ReQoL Scores: Baseline vs Post-Treatment
Figure 2: Mean Percentage Improvement in ReQoL Scores
This chart shows the mean percentage improvement in ReQoL scores from baseline to post-treatment for
patients treated with MDMA-AT for PTSD. The enhancement in quality of life measures emphasises the broad
ability of the program to significantly improve patients’ overall well-being alongside symptom reduction. The
ReQoL is a patient-reported outcome measure covering domains such as wellbeing, functioning, and personal
recovery, allowing patients to express how their mental health impacts their daily lives and overall quality of life.
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Mean Change in ReQoL Scores: -22.6 points (indicating an improvement in quality of life)
95% Confidence Interval for Mean Change: (-34.89, -10.36) points
Paired t-test: p-value = 0.0086 ( statistically significant improvement)
Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test: p-value = 0.0078 (statistically significant improvement)
Michael Winlo, CEO: “These early Real-World results from our MDMA-Assisted Therapy
program highlight the significant potential of this approach for PTSD care and provide an
early indication of its effectiveness in real clinical settings beyond controlled trials. Emyria is
uniquely positioned to lead the global development and refinement of this treatment as
Australia is currently the only jurisdiction permitting these therapies under stringent
oversight. We believe we have a substantial head start in gathering crucial Real-World
Data and refining the approach to fully realise the potential of MDMA-AT thereby helping
patients and also advancing the therapy’s ongoing improvement."
Emyria ASX Announcement | 02 Sep 2024
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Program Structure
Emyria’s MDMA-AT program is a rigorous 10-16 week regimen involving over 90 hours of
therapy and specialist involvement. The program’s structure includes thorough screening,
preparation, and drug tapering if required, supervised medication-assisted therapy sessions,
and comprehensive follow-up integration. On average, the length of treatment from
screening to completion is 106 days, reflecting the program’s commitment to providing
structured and supportive care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Initial Cohort Details
The interim results are based on data from an initial cohort of eight patients (six males and
two females) with ages ranging from 27 to 62 years (mean 45 years) with baseline PCL-5
scores ranging from 47 to 82 and an average score of 68, indicating a high level of initial
symptom severity. All patients (n=8) participating in the program successfully completed the
full treatment cycle, which involved either two (n=2) or three (n=6) supervised dosing
sessions of MDMA-AT. The number of supervised dosing sessions was determined by clinical
evaluation taking into consideration symptom progression at regular clinical reviews. An
additional five patients are nearing completion of active treatment with others in active
screening. Emyria has an open enrolment target of 70 patients for this program.
Treatment Response According to PTSD Symptom Severity
Patients showed substantial improvements with an average 33% reduction in PTSD
symptoms as measured by PCL-5 scores. Notably, all patients achieved at least a 20%
reduction in symptoms, while 40% experienced a reduction of 50% or more, demonstrating
the robust impact of Emyria’s MDMA-AT program on severe PTSD. The variability in response
ranged from mild improvements to reductions exceeding 50%, highlighting the
individualised nature of therapy outcomes.
Treatment Safety
Adverse events were mild and transient, 1 in 4 patients experiencing either transient high
blood pressure, nausea or jaw clenching. All side effects were self-limiting and effectively
managed within the controlled clinical environment, underscoring the importance of
specialist oversight.
Meaningful Implications for PTSD Patients
These results are particularly significant for the estimated 6-7% of adults suffering from
PTSD 3, many of whom struggle with treatment resistance to conventional medications
such antidepressants, or other ‘gold-standard’ approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral
Therapy (CBT) or Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy. Emyria’s data suggests that MDMA-AT
can offer a potentially more effective and enduring treatment option for patients who have
not found relief through standard options, highlighting the potential of this approach for
PTSD care.
Addressing a Large, Unmet Need in PTSD Care
With approximately 400,000 individuals in Australia who could benefit from MDMA-AT 4, the
market opportunity is substantial. Emyria’s program is strategically positioned to meet this
demand. With a proven ability to deliver commercially viable and high-demand services,
Emyria expects to see continued growth in activity and revenue throughout the remainder
of the year.
Emyria ASX Announcement | 02 Sep 2024
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Scalable Expansion Backed by Operational Readiness
Emyria’s expansion strategy is fuelled by revenue from existing operations, allowing for
growth without significant upfront capital. Recent operational advancements include the
onboarding of seven experienced therapists and two medical practitioners trained in
Emyria’s unique care models. This expanded team, now numbering over 20 clinical
professionals, is set to support rapid growth and meet increasing demand.
Emyria is actively negotiating site expansions and new care models with several private
hospitals, and is poised to enhance its footprint on Australia’s east coast through strategic
recruitment of specialists. This positions Emyria to rapidly scale its unique programs and
extend its impact across the nation.
Differentiating Through Data-Driven Care
Emyria operates as a unique learning health service, continuously gathering data to refine
and enhance care models, thereby improving clinical outcomes. Emyria’s unique
multidisciplinary approach involving specialists and therapists provides a comprehensive,
patient-centred and coordinated treatment journey, allowing for more effective PTSD care
compared to fragmented traditional therapies.
Advancing Regulatory and Reimbursement Pathways
Australia remains the only jurisdiction globally with a legal access pathway for MDMA-AT 5
and Emyria is committed to maintaining compliance with stringent regulatory
requirements. The Company is in advanced discussions with several major third-party
payers regarding potential pilot programs anticipated to launch by year’s end. These
engagements reflect a broader effort to secure reimbursement, addressing the high costs of
mental health care for patients and insurers and paving the way for broader adoption of
promising new approaches.
Emyria’s Long-term Vision and Strategic Goals
Emyria aims to become a global leader in the delivery and development of new treatments
for mental health and select neurological conditions. The Company believes the future of
mental health care will involve both new drug treatments and new models of supportive
psychotherapy. Consequently, Emyria is advancing an ambitious innovation and IP pipeline
in both domains. Under this model, the Company can uniquely deliver immediate patient
benefits while also creating new IP for long-term value creation.
Investor Engagement and Upcoming Presentations
Emyria invites investors to learn more about these results and the Company’s future plans:
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WA Branch Conference of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of
Psychiatrists: September 6th - 7th. Dr. Jon Laugharne, Emyria’s lead psychiatrist, will
present a summary of these early results.
Stock Soiree: Wednesday, September 4th. Register: holly @ stocksoiree . com . au
ShareCafe’s "Hidden Gems" Webinar: Friday, September 6th (registration details to
follow).
Emyria ASX Announcement | 02 Sep 2024
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Emyria’s MDMA-AT Program
ITEM
Program Title
DESCRIPTION
An Evaluation of MDMA-AT for the Treatment of PTSD
Primary Endpoint(s)
Evaluate the safety and efficacy of up to three doses of MDMA in
participants with PTSD.
Clinical Assessments
PTSD symptom severity by PCL-5: (“Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Checklist for DSM-V”) A 20-item self-report tool used to measure
PTSD symptoms according to DSM-5 criteria.
Quality of Life by ReQoL: (“Recovering quality of life”) measures
quality of life in individuals with mental health conditions, focusing
on wellbeing, functioning, and recovery
Other clinical and safety assessments cover symptoms
depression, disability, psychological distress and adverse events
Development Phase
Real-World, open-label
Treatment Method,
Route, Frequency, Dose
Levels, Expected
Duration
Number of Subjects &
Selection Criteria
Locations
A highly structured 10-16 week regimen, involving over 90 hours of
therapy and specialist involvement. The program unfolds in
distinct stages: thorough screening, preparation, and drug
tapering (if required); followed by carefully supervised
medication-assisted therapy sessions with multiple, intervening
integration sessions.
The average duration from initial screening to treatment
conclusion for the current cohort was 106 days\
8 patients in follow-up phase + 5 patients in active treatment
Emyria's Empax Centre in Perth Western Australia
References:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Refer ASX Release 30th October 2023
Marx BP, et al. Reliable and clinically significant change in the clinician-administered PTSD
Scale for DSM-5 and PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 among male veterans. Psychol Assess. 2022
Feb;34(2):197-203. doi: 10.1037/pas0001098.
https:// www . phoenixaustralia . org / ptsd-awareness-day
Previous studies estimate that the proportion of people with PTSD who experience a chronic
and severe form is 50% (range 40–60%) [Koek RJ, et al]. Of this population, about 21.9% (range
12.5–41.5%) may be ineligible for MDMA-AT because of psychiatric and medical comorbidities
such as any current substance use disorder, primary psychotic disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Applying this calculus to Australian prevalences for PTSD suggests a potential patient
population of ~400,000 adults who may be suitable for MDMA-AT. [For detailed analysis, see
Avanceña, at al. The Costs and Health Benefits of Expanded Access to MDMA-assisted Therapy
for Chronic and Severe PTSD in the USA: A Modeling Study. Clin Drug Investig 42, 243–252
(2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40261-022-01122-0]
https://www.tga.gov.au/news/media-releases/change-classification-psilocybin-and-mdma-en
able-prescribing-authorised-psychiatrists
This release has been approved by the Board of Emyria.
For further information, investment opportunities, or more about our approach to
mental health treatment, please contact:
Managing Director
Michael Winlo
+61 (0) 8 6559 2800
mwinlo@emyria.com
Emyria ASX Announcement | 02 Sep 2024
Media Contact
Haley Chartres
+61 (0) 423 139 163
haley@hck.digital
Corporate Advisor
Sufian Ahmed
+61 (0) 412 316 162
info@62capital.com.au
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emyria.com
Emyria Limited develops and delivers new treatments for mental health and select neurological
conditions through through an integrated model of direct clinical services and drug development:
generates
Emyria Healthcare: Evidence-based treatment for patients not finding relief from
conventional care while also helping evaluate emerging new therapies like
MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD 1
Emyria Data: Robust and ethically-sourced Real-World Data gathered with patients
and used to improve Emyria’s unique therapy and drug development programs.
informs
Emyria’s Pipeline: New psychedelic-assisted therapies and drug treatments for mental
health and select neurological diseases.
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by asking questions and comments, which our team can respond to where possible.
CAUTIONARY NOTE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Any statements in this press
release about future expectations, plans and prospects for the Company, the Company’s
strategy, future operations, and other statements containing the words “anticipate,”
“believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “potential,”
“will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “continue,” and similar expressions, constitute
forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by
such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including: the
Company’s ability to successfully develop its product candidates and timely complete its
planned clinical programs and the Company’s ability to obtain marketing approvals for its
product candidates. In addition, the forward-looking statements included in this press
release represents the Company’s views as of the date hereof. The Company anticipates that
subsequent events and developments will cause the Company’s views to change. However,
while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in
the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These
forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s views
as of any date subsequent to the date hereof.
Risks associated with the use of MDMA
All medicines carry risks and specialist prescribers, such as registered psychiatrists, are best
placed to assess the suitability of a new medication against a patient’s individual
circumstances and medical history before proceeding. Adverse effects of MDMA include
high blood pressure, increased pulse rate, faintness, and panic attacks, and in some rare
cases it can cause loss of consciousness or trigger seizures. Other side effects include
involuntary jaw clenching, decreased appetite, restless legs, nausea, headache, sweating
and muscle/joint stiffness. These effects of MDMA are unlikely at low doses in the treatment
regimens used in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy while appropriately managed in a
controlled environment with direct medical supervision.
Emyria ASX Announcement | 02 Sep 2024
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