Tranzyme Pharma Seeks To Expand Use For Proposed Drug

is amending its investigational new drug application with the Food and Drug Administration for its candidate TZP-101 in order to possibly treat a second condition.

Tranzyme said Thursday it wants to utilize TZP-101 as a treatment for diabetic patients who suffer from gastroparesis, which is a disorder that delays emptying of the stomach. It can exist in acute and chronic forms, the company said.

TZP-101 was originally intended to treat ileus, which is a blockage of the bowels.

Tranzyme noted that the most potent drug to treat gastroparesis, Propulsid, was withdrawn in 2000 due to adverse side effects. It had $1 billion in global sales, Tranzyme said in a statement.

Tranzyme hopes to begin Phase II testing of TZP-101 in 2007.