3.5.12 NCX-1000

Axcan Pharma’s NCX-1000 is a nitric oxide derivative of ursodiol, developed to treat portal hypertension, seen in late-stage liver disease. Phase I clinical trials in healthy patients should end in late 2003. The product reduces portal pressure by decreasing resistance inside the liver. It seems to reduce fibrosis and aptosis (self-destruction of liver cells) (www.newswire.ca/releases/February2003/05/c6843.html).