Ovid Therapeutics (OVID) Leerink Global Healthcare Conference 2026 summary

Leadership and company progress

• CEO has been in the role for about 2.5 months, previously serving as COO.

• Focus remains on advancing clinical programs and delivering medicines to patients.

• Company transitioned from preclinical assets to active clinical development over the past four years.

OV329 program updates

• OV329 is a GABA-AT inhibitor designed to elevate endogenous GABA, aiming for a differentiated, well-tolerated anticonvulsant.

• Preclinical and early human data show strong cortical inhibition and favorable tolerability compared to existing seizure medicines.

• No evidence of the retinal toxicity seen in first-generation vigabatrin; rational design improved potency and safety.

• Phase II randomized, placebo-controlled study to start in Q2, with 7 mg dose targeted; safety and PK data for this dose expected imminently.

• Interim data from seizure patients anticipated by year-end, with full Phase II readout expected mid-next year.

Competitive landscape and efficacy goals

• Targeting 30–50% seizure reduction in focal onset seizures to remain competitive.

• Differentiation based on efficacy, tolerability, lack of drug-drug interactions, and no need for titration.

• Emphasis on patient quality of life and ability to combine with other therapies.