LONDON (Reuters Health) - British inhaled therapy specialist, Vectura Ltd, said on Tuesday it had successfully completed a phase IIa study of inhaled apomorphine in patients with erectile dysfunction.

The results showed that 59% on the 800-microgram dose and 49% on the 400-microgram dose had erections of suitable quality for intercourse. The onset of erections was notably rapid, with an average of only 8 minutes.

Excellent tolerability was observed at all doses and no serious or severe adverse events were reported, the company added in a statement.

Chief operating officer Dr. Chris Blackwell said increased response rates should be possible at higher doses. The company was talking to potential licensing partners and hoped to conclude discussions before the end of the year.

Vectura was founded by Merlin Biosciences in 1997 and according to Blackwell has enough cash to take it into 2004.

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