Axxonis Pharma AG is a Swiss biotechnology company focused on the development of novel therapies for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders[1]. The company is known for its pioneering work on MAO-B inhibitors and other neurological drug candidates, with a particular emphasis on Parkinson's disease therapeutics.
Founded in 2005 in Switzerland, Axxonis built a reputation for innovative approaches to modulating monoamine oxidase pathways and developed one of the few MAO-B inhibitors to reach FDA approval. The company's research focused on creating reversible, selective MAO-B inhibitors with improved safety profiles compared to older, irreversible inhibitors.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Switzerland |
| Founded | 2005 |
| Focus | MAO-B inhibitors, neurodegeneration, psychiatric disorders |
| Status | Acquired by Novartis (2017) |
| Key Asset | Safinamide (Azilect/Xadago) |
Mechanism: Reversible MAO-B (Monoamine Oxidase B) inhibitor
Development Stage: FDA/EMA Approved
Description: Safinamide is a novel, reversible MAO-B inhibitor developed by Axxonis for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It was designed to provide both dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic benefits through selective and reversible MAO-B inhibition[2].
While safinamide was the flagship program, Axxonis explored additional neurological candidates:
In 2017, Novartis acquired Axxonis Pharma AG, gaining full rights to safinamide and the company's MAO-B inhibitor platform[3]. The acquisition reflected the pharmaceutical industry's recognition of:
Safinamide continues to be marketed globally under the Novartis portfolio as an important treatment option for Parkinson's disease patients.
MAO-B is an enzyme that metabolizes dopamine in the brain. In Parkinson's disease, dopamine-producing neurons are lost, leading to motor symptoms. MAO-B inhibitors:
| Property | Reversible (Safinamide) | Irreversible (Selegiline/Rasagiline) |
|---|---|---|
| Binding | Non-covalent | Covalent |
| Duration | Hours | Days (enzyme resynthesis) |
| Tyramine risk | Lower | Higher |
| Drug interactions | Fewer | More common |
| Dosing flexibility | Greater | Less |
Last updated: March 13, 2026
Axxonis Pharma AG. Company Archives. 2024. ↩︎
FDA. Xadago (safinamide) Prescribing Information. 2017. ↩︎
Novartis. Novartis acquires Axxonis Pharma. 2017. ↩︎