Xconomy: Houston Biotech Vapogenix Raises $5.1M for Skin-Numbing Drug
Summary
Vapogenix is developing a rapidly acting topical analgesic to numb the skin for IV insertions or dermatological procedures, especially those in children.The idea is that volatile anesthetics, which are currently inhaled by patients during general anesthesia, can be marshaled into topical gels and liquids to alleviate pain.While the base drugs in those therapies—the “caines,” such as lidocaine or benzocaine—can relieve pain and numb the affected area, they can take up to an hour to work.The drug was well tolerated.” The last time I spoke to Altman, in July 2013 at Vapogenix’s office in the shadow of the Houston Astrodome, the company was just completing its application with the FDA to begin clinical testing of its first topical analgesic.As Vapogenix begins fundraising for its Series C round, Altman says the next step for its first product is to enroll patients in a phase 2 trial, something she hopes they can do in 2016.