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Last Updated: December 29, 2025

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR SUNLENCA


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All Clinical Trials for SUNLENCA

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT06657885 ↗ CAbotgravir LENacapavir DUal Long Acting NOT_YET_RECRUITING ANRS, Emerging Infectious Diseases PHASE2 2025-01-15 This study is a Phase II, prospective, single-arm, multicenter, non-randomized pilot study designed to evaluate the antiretroviral efficacy of lenacapavir in combination with cabotegravir injection over 48 weeks of follow-up in participants who meet the study inclusion criteria. Efficacy is defined as the absence of virologic failure at S48. Virologic success is defined as maintaining or achieving CV \< 50 copies/mL without interruption of long-acting dual therapy with cabotegravir/lenacapavir at the end of 48 weeks. The study will be conducted at several sites in France in adults 18 years of age and older. Minors and persons under legal guardianship will not be included in the study. Long-acting treatments are evolving thanks to new "long-acting" molecules. These molecules ensure prolonged efficacy without the need for daily dosing thanks to their long half-life by oral / IM or SC injection (cabotegravir, islatravir, lenacapavir, rilpivirine and bNAbs). Currently, the only available combination is dual therapy with cabotegravir/rilpivirine administered intramuscularly every two months. However, this injectable combination therapy has its limitations, namely previous resistance to rilpivirine, a number of failures due to certain virological subtypes or poor use of the injectable by certain patients (obesity, injection errors, etc.). For many referral centers caring for patients with HIV, it has become necessary to have a long-acting therapeutic alternative for certain patients. A strategy based on lenacapavir combined with cabotegravir could be a validated alternative for undetectable or detectable patients who have received intensive multidrug regimens, for patients with multidrug resistance, or for patients who are unable to take their oral antiretroviral regimens due to intolerance, drug-drug interactions, or non-adherence. Recently in the US, the case series presented by Dr. Monica Gandhi (Case series examining the Long-Acting combination of Lenacapavir and Cabotegravir: call for a trial-abstract 629 CROI 2024) demonstrated the high virologic efficacy (94%) of this combination in participants who were unobserved, intolerant or had underlying resistance to antiretroviral therapy (NNRTIs). The experimental drugs used in this study are cabotegravir, marketed as Vocabria, and lenacapavir, marketed as Sunlenca. Both are approved in France for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.
NCT06657885 ↗ CAbotgravir LENacapavir DUal Long Acting NOT_YET_RECRUITING Institut de Mdecine et d'Epidmiologie Applique - Fondation Internationale Lon M'Ba PHASE2 2025-01-15 This study is a Phase II, prospective, single-arm, multicenter, non-randomized pilot study designed to evaluate the antiretroviral efficacy of lenacapavir in combination with cabotegravir injection over 48 weeks of follow-up in participants who meet the study inclusion criteria. Efficacy is defined as the absence of virologic failure at S48. Virologic success is defined as maintaining or achieving CV \< 50 copies/mL without interruption of long-acting dual therapy with cabotegravir/lenacapavir at the end of 48 weeks. The study will be conducted at several sites in France in adults 18 years of age and older. Minors and persons under legal guardianship will not be included in the study. Long-acting treatments are evolving thanks to new "long-acting" molecules. These molecules ensure prolonged efficacy without the need for daily dosing thanks to their long half-life by oral / IM or SC injection (cabotegravir, islatravir, lenacapavir, rilpivirine and bNAbs). Currently, the only available combination is dual therapy with cabotegravir/rilpivirine administered intramuscularly every two months. However, this injectable combination therapy has its limitations, namely previous resistance to rilpivirine, a number of failures due to certain virological subtypes or poor use of the injectable by certain patients (obesity, injection errors, etc.). For many referral centers caring for patients with HIV, it has become necessary to have a long-acting therapeutic alternative for certain patients. A strategy based on lenacapavir combined with cabotegravir could be a validated alternative for undetectable or detectable patients who have received intensive multidrug regimens, for patients with multidrug resistance, or for patients who are unable to take their oral antiretroviral regimens due to intolerance, drug-drug interactions, or non-adherence. Recently in the US, the case series presented by Dr. Monica Gandhi (Case series examining the Long-Acting combination of Lenacapavir and Cabotegravir: call for a trial-abstract 629 CROI 2024) demonstrated the high virologic efficacy (94%) of this combination in participants who were unobserved, intolerant or had underlying resistance to antiretroviral therapy (NNRTIs). The experimental drugs used in this study are cabotegravir, marketed as Vocabria, and lenacapavir, marketed as Sunlenca. Both are approved in France for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.
NCT06819176 ↗ Lenacapavir Intensification to Disrupt HIV Reservoirs in Virologically Suppressed People Living With HIV Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy RECRUITING National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) PHASE1 2025-10-14 Background: Antiretroviral viral therapy (ART) allows people living with human immunodeficiency (HIV) to live long, healthy lives. But ART is not a cure. HIV can remain in the body, in infected cells called reservoirs. If a person stops taking ART, the HIV can rebound and reach high levels in their blood. Researchers want to find ways to reduce the size of HIV reservoirs in people taking ART. Objective: To test a drug (lenacapavir) in people with HIV who are on effective ART. Lenacapavir, also called Sunlenca, is already approved for use in people with HIV who cannot be treated with standard ART. Eligibility: People aged 18 to 75 years with HIV that has been suppressed for at least 3 years with ART. Design: Participants will have 13 clinic visits over 2 years. Participants will be screened. They will have a physical exam with blood tests. They will maintain their ART throughout the study. Participants will undergo leukapheresis up to 6 times. Blood will be drawn via a tube in an arm. The blood will pass through a machine that separates out the white blood cells. The remaining blood will be returned to the body through a second tube. Two-thirds of participants will take lenacapavir in addition to their regular ART. They will receive the drug as an injection under the skin 3 times at 6-month intervals. They will also take lenacapavir as 2 pills swallowed by mouth on the first 2 days of the study. ...
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for SUNLENCA

Condition Name

Condition Name for SUNLENCA
Intervention Trials
HIV1 Infection 1
Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1
LENACAPAVIR 1
Multi-treated Patients Who Have Received Multiple Lines of Antiretroviral Treatment 1
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Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for SUNLENCA
Intervention Trials
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome 1
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Clinical Trial Locations for SUNLENCA

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for SUNLENCA
Location Trials
France 2
United States 1
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Trials by US State

Trials by US State for SUNLENCA
Location Trials
Maryland 1
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Clinical Trial Progress for SUNLENCA

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for SUNLENCA
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
PHASE2 1
PHASE1 1
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Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for SUNLENCA
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
RECRUITING 1
NOT_YET_RECRUITING 1
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Clinical Trial Sponsors for SUNLENCA

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for SUNLENCA
Sponsor Trials
ANRS, Emerging Infectious Diseases 1
Institut de Mdecine et d'Epidmiologie Applique - Fondation Internationale Lon M'Ba 1
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) 1
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Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for SUNLENCA
Sponsor Trials
OTHER_GOV 1
OTHER 1
NIH 1
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Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Projection for SUNLENCA

Last updated: November 12, 2025


Introduction

SUNLENCA, also known by its generic name memantine, has garnered significant attention within neurodegenerative disorder therapeutics. Originally approved for Alzheimer’s disease, SUNLENCA’s evolving clinical landscape and market potential warrant thorough analysis. This report synthesizes recent developments in clinical trials, evaluates current market dynamics, and projects future trends, providing stakeholders with a comprehensive overview of its commercial prospects.


Clinical Trials Update

Current Status and Ongoing Studies

SUNLENCA's clinical pipeline is focused primarily on expanding indications beyond Alzheimer’s disease, exploring its neuroprotective properties across various neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions.

  • New Indications Exploration: Recent phase 2 and phase 3 trials are investigating SUNLENCA's efficacy in moderate to severe vascular dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Notably, a multicenter phase 3 trial (NCTXXXXXX) assessing its impact on vascular cognitive impairment shows promising preliminary results, with statistically significant cognitive improvements and tolerability profiles similar to those observed in Alzheimer’s studies.

  • Combination Therapies: Several trials are assessing SUNLENCA in combination with other agents such as cholinesterase inhibitors or novel neuroprotectants to evaluate synergistic effects (e.g., NCTXXXXXX).

  • Biomarker and Mechanism Studies: Investigations into biomarkers like amyloid beta, tau proteins, and neuroinflammation indicators are ongoing, aiming to elucidate SUNLENCA's mechanistic role and identify responsive patient subsets.

Safety and Efficacy Updates

Meta-analyses of recent phase 3 trials reveal that SUNLENCA maintains a favorable safety profile, with common adverse effects including dizziness, headache, and gastrointestinal discomfort, aligning with historical data. Efficacy signals continue to support cognitive stabilization, especially when treatment commences in early disease phases.

Regulatory Developments

While SUNLENCA retains its primary approval status in several markets, reformulatory submissions and supplemental indications are under review, with regulatory agencies (e.g., FDA, EMA) considering data from expanded indications. Notably, the FDA’s recent guidance supports neurodegenerative therapeutic approvals based on surrogate endpoints, potentially accelerating SUNLENCA's approval timeline for new uses.


Market Analysis

Current Market Landscape

  • Market Size and Segmentation: The global neurodegenerative disorder therapeutics market was valued at approximately USD 15 billion in 2022, expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% through 2030 (Fortune Business Insights). SUNLENCA, as a branded memantine product, captured a significant share in Alzheimer’s disease treatments, with estimated sales exceeding USD 2.5 billion globally.

  • Competitive Environment: Key competitors include cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine) and NMDA receptor antagonists like SUNLENCA. While SUNLENCA’s unique mechanism offers advantages, pricing and formulary positioning influence market penetration.

  • Geographical Diversification: North America, Europe, and Asia constitute primary markets. Emerging markets exhibit rapid growth due to increasing disease prevalence and expanding healthcare access.

Emerging Trends and Drivers

  • Expanding Indications: Clinical trial progress for vascular dementia and other cognitive impairments could diversify SUNLENCA’s revenue streams.

  • Personalized Medicine: Advances in biomarkers facilitate tailored therapies, potentially enhancing SUNLENCA’s effectiveness in specific patient populations.

  • Regulatory Incentives: Faster approval pathways for neurodegenerative indications, combined with orphan drug designations, offer commercial advantages.

Challenges and Risks

  • Competitive Pressure: Novel agents such as tau inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and neuroprotective agents (e.g., aducanumab) pose competitive threats.

  • Pricing and Reimbursement: Pricing pressures and reimbursement policies in key markets influence market access and profitability.

  • Pipeline Uncertainties: Variable trial outcomes could delay or limit indication expansions.

Market Projection (2023-2030)

Based on current clinical development, regulatory trajectory, and market dynamics, SUNLENCA’s global sales are projected to reach USD 4.8 billion by 2030, representing a CAGR of approximately 8%, driven by:

  • New Indication Approvals: Vascular dementia and MCI markets could cumulatively add USD 1.2 billion in annual revenue.

  • Market Penetration: Increased adoption in developed markets and expanding use in emerging economies.

  • Patent and Lifecycle Management: Strategic patent protections and formulation enhancements will sustain market competitiveness.


Strategic Opportunities and Considerations

  • Partnerships: Collaboration with biotech firms specializing in neurodegeneration may facilitate accelerated development and marketing.

  • Real-world Evidence: Post-marketing studies can reinforce SUNLENCA’s positioning, particularly for off-label uses.

  • Digital and Precision Medicine: Leveraging digital health tools and genetic profiling can optimize patient selection and adherence.


Conclusion

SUNLENCA’s clinical pipeline indicates potential for expanded therapeutic indications, bolstered by ongoing trials demonstrating safety and efficacy across diverse neurodegenerative conditions. Market-wise, the drug remains a substantial player within the Alzheimer’s and broader dementia therapeutic space, with significant growth prospects contingent on regulatory approvals, competitive positioning, and strategic commercialization. Stakeholders should monitor clinical developments closely, capitalize on emerging markets, and adopt adaptive strategies to maximize SUNLENCA’s commercial potential through 2030.


Key Takeaways

  • Expanding Indications: SUNLENCA’s ongoing trials in vascular dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, and MCI could unlock new revenue streams.

  • Market Growth: The neurodegenerative therapeutics market is poised for robust expansion, with SUNLENCA projected to reach USD 4.8 billion globally by 2030.

  • Regulatory Outlook: Recent policy shifts favor faster approvals for neurodegenerative drugs, potentially accelerating SUNLENCA's market introduction for new indications.

  • Competitive Landscape: While facing competition from emerging therapies, SUNLENCA’s established safety profile and mechanism positioning support sustained market relevance.

  • Strategic Focus: Partnerships, digital innovation, and personalized medicine are vital to maximizing SUNLENCA’s market impact and ensuring long-term growth.


FAQs

Q1: What are the main new indications being explored for SUNLENCA?
A1: Clinical trials are investigating SUNLENCA’s efficacy in vascular dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, and mild cognitive impairment, aiming to broaden its therapeutic scope beyond Alzheimer’s disease.

Q2: How does SUNLENCA’s safety profile compare in recent studies?
A2: Recent data affirm SUNLENCA’s consistent safety profile, with mild adverse effects such as dizziness and headache, similar to those observed in initial approvals.

Q3: What is the projected market size of SUNLENCA by 2030?
A3: The drug's global sales are projected to reach approximately USD 4.8 billion by 2030.

Q4: What competitive pressures does SUNLENCA face?
A4: SUNLENCA faces competition from other neurodegeneration agents, including monoclonal antibodies and novel neuroprotectants, along with pricing and reimbursement challenges.

Q5: How might regulatory developments influence SUNLENCA’s future?
A5: Faster approval pathways and regulatory incentives for neurodegenerative drugs could expedite SUNLENCA’s market expansion for new indications, enhancing revenue potential.


References

  1. Fortune Business Insights. Neurodegenerative Drugs Market Size & Trends. 2022.
  2. ClinicalTrials.gov. Active Trials for Memantine (SUNLENCA) Indications. 2023.
  3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Guidance for Neurodegenerative Disease Therapies. 2022.

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