Axsome rises as it buys rights to experimental schizophrenia drug

Takeda Pharmaceutical

01/04/2026 12:27

** Shares of drugmaker Axsome Therapeutics AXSM.O rise 1.5% to $171.48

** Co says it acquired global rights to balipodect, an experimental oral drug for schizophrenia and Tourette syndrome, from Japan’s Takeda

** Balipodect targets a specific brain enzyme and was previously known as TAK‑063; it has been tested in a mid‑stage schizophrenia study in 164 patients - AXSM

** Co says the drug showed a favorable safety profile in more than 360 people across studies

** Axsome plans to start preparations for a late‑stage schizophrenia trial later this year - AXSM

** Takeda will receive an upfront payment, potential development and sales milestones and royalties on future sales - AXSM

** As of last close, AXSM down ~7% YTD

 (Reporting by Sahil Pandey in Bengaluru)

 ((Sahil.Pandey@thomsonreuters.com))