Eiger BioPharmaceuticals, a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in rare disease therapies, has made announcements regarding its strategic direction and leadership. In a recent press release, Eiger revealed its decision to appoint Dr. David Apelian, an experienced industry professional, as its new CEO. Eiger also outlined its plans to prioritize the development of avexitide, a groundbreaking treatment for hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia indications.

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Appointment of Dr. David Apelian as CEO

Eiger BioPharmaceuticals is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. David Apelian as Eiger's new CEO. Dr. Apelian, who has served as the interim Chief Executive Officer since December 2022, brings a wealth of clinical development and regulatory experience to the role. With a strong background in large pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, as well as prior leadership positions at Eiger, Dr. Apelian's expertise positions him as the ideal choice to lead Eiger's future endeavors. The appointment reflects Eiger's confidence in Dr. Apelian's strategic vision and his ability to drive innovation and value for both patients and stakeholders.

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Strategic Focus on Avexitide for Metabolic Diseases

Eiger's portfolio prioritization review has led to a strategic decision to concentrate its development efforts on avexitide, a potential breakthrough therapy for metabolic diseases. The initial focus will be on post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH), a significant orphan disease resulting from complications in bariatric surgery. Eiger recognizes the substantial revenue potential in this space, with an estimated prevalence of approximately 180,000 cases in the US alone. Eiger has already demonstrated proof-of-concept in Phase 2 clinical trials and has gained FDA alignment on Phase 3 endpoints, sample size, and study design.

Avexitide also holds promise as a treatment for congenital hyperinsulinism, an ultra-rare pediatric disorder that can lead to irreversible brain damage. Recognizing the urgency of addressing this life-threatening condition, Eiger has obtained Breakthrough Therapy designation from the FDA and Rare Pediatric Disease designation for avexitide.

Eiger's plans extend beyond the development of avexitide. Eiger intends to explore strategic partnering options for its virology assets, namely lonafarnib and peginterferon lambda. These assets have demonstrated strong data and regulatory alignment with the FDA, making them attractive candidates for potential collaborations. Eiger is actively engaged in discussions with potential partners to maximize the value of these assets.