Vivani Medical, Inc.

Previous wording

We are a preclinical-stage company with a limited operating history, and have no products approved for commercial sale.

Current wording

We are a clinical-stage company with a limited operating history, and have no products approved for commercial sale.

Previous wording

We are a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company. In August 2022, we completed a business combination of Second Sight and NPM, to form our current company. Following the business combination, we are focusing primarily on the development of our proprietary NanoPortal technology and the development of miniaturized, subdermal drug implants capable of the long-term delivery of medicine in patients with chronic diseases with high unmet medical need. Our pipeline includes our current product candidates NPM-115, NPM-119, NPM-139 and OKV-119, which we have partnered with Okava Pharmaceuticals, Inc. All of our product candidates are in early-stage development and none of our product candidates have entered into clinical-stage testing, been approved for marketing, or are being marketed or commercialized.

Current wording

We are a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company. In August 2022, we completed a business combination of Second Sight and NPM, to form our current company. Following the business combination, we are focusing primarily on the development of our proprietary NanoPortal technology and the development of miniaturized, subdermal drug implants capable of the long-term delivery of medicine in patients with chronic diseases with high unmet medical need. Our pipeline includes our current product candidates NPM-115, NPM-119, NPM-139 and OKV-119, which we have partnered with Okava. NPM-115 has entered clinical-stage development, and NPM-139 and NPM119 are in preclinical development. OKV-119 is in development for use in treating cardiometabolic disorders in dogs and cats. No Vivani drug candidates have been approved for marketing, or are being marketed or commercialized.

Previous wording

As a result, we have no meaningful historical operations upon which to evaluate our business and prospects and we have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully initiate and conduct clinical trials or obtain marketing approval for any of our product candidates or otherwise successfully overcome the risks and uncertainties frequently encountered by companies in the biopharmaceutical industry. We have not generated any revenues to date, and we continue to incur significant research and development and other expenses. As a result, we have not been profitable and have incurred operating losses in every reporting period since our inception. During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, we reported net losses of $13.9 million and $25.7 million, respectively, and had an accumulated deficit of $98.4 million as of December 31, 2023.

Current wording

As a result, we have no meaningful historical operations upon which to evaluate our business and prospects and we have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully complete clinical trials or obtain marketing approval for any of our product candidates or otherwise successfully overcome the risks and uncertainties frequently encountered by companies in the biopharmaceutical industry. We have not generated any revenues to date, and we continue to incur significant research and development and other expenses. As a result, we have not been profitable and have incurred operating losses in every reporting period since our inception. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we reported net losses of $23.5 million and $25.7 million, respectively, and had an accumulated deficit of $121.9 million as of December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

For the foreseeable future, we expect to continue to incur significant and increasing losses as we expand our research and development activities, seek regulatory approvals for our product candidates and begin to commercialize them if they are approved by the FDA the European Medicines Agency (“EMA”) or comparable foreign authorities. Even if one or more of our product candidates complete their clinical development, achieve marketing approval and are commercialized, we may never become profitable.

Current wording

For the foreseeable future, we expect to continue to incur significant and increasing losses as we expand our research and development activities, seek regulatory approvals for our product candidates and begin to commercialize them if they are approved by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. Even if one or more of our product candidates complete their clinical development, achieve marketing approval and are commercialized, we may never become profitable.

Previous wording

In addition, we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications, delays and other known and unknown factors and risks frequently experienced biopharmaceutical companies in rapidly evolving fields. If one or more of our product candidates receive marketing approval, we also may need to transition from a company with a research and development focus to a company capable of supporting commercial activities. We have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully overcome such risks and difficulties, or to make such a transition.

Current wording

In addition, we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications, delays and other known and unknown factors and risks frequently experienced by biopharmaceutical companies in rapidly evolving fields. If one or more of our product candidates receive marketing approval, we also may need to transition from a company with a research and development focus to a company capable of supporting commercial activities. We have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully overcome such risks and difficulties, or to make such a transition.

Previous wording

We may never be successful in achieving its objectives and, even if we do, may never generate revenue that is significant or large enough to achieve or maintain profitability. Any failure to become and remain profitable would decrease the value of our company and could impair our ability to maintain or further our research and development efforts, raise additional necessary capital, grow our business, and continue our operations.

Current wording

We may never be successful in achieving our objectives and, even if we do, may never generate revenue that is significant or large enough to achieve or maintain profitability. Any failure to become and remain profitable would decrease the value of our company and could impair our ability to maintain or further our research and development efforts, raise additional necessary capital, grow our business, and continue our operations.

Previous wording

Developing pharmaceutical products, including conducting preclinical studies and clinical trials, is a very time-consuming, expensive, and uncertain process that takes years to complete. Our operations have consumed substantial amounts of cash, and we expect our expenses to increase in connection with our ongoing activities, particularly as we conduct clinical trials of our product candidates. Even if one or more of our product candidates is approved for commercial sale, we will incur significant costs associated with sales, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution activities. Our expenses could increase beyond expectations if required by the FDA, the EMA or other regulatory agencies to perform clinical trials or preclinical studies in addition to those that we currently anticipate. For example, on August 18, 2023, FDA provided written notification that the LIBERATE-1 study was on Full Clinical Hold exclusively due to insufficient CMC information to assess the risk to human subjects. Vivani remains actively engaged in discussions with FDA as part of its efforts to lift the clinical hold and enable the expeditious initiation of LIBERATE-1. If we are required to conduct additional nonclinical and/or clinical activities, our overall expenditures relating to our NPM-119 program would increase. Other unanticipated costs may also arise. Because the design and outcome of our planned and anticipated clinical trials are highly uncertain, we cannot reasonably estimate the actual amount of resources and funding that will be necessary to successfully complete the development and commercialization of any product candidate. We are not permitted to market or promote any product candidate before it receives marketing approval from the regulatory authorities. Accordingly, we will need to obtain substantial additional funding in order to continue our operations and pursue our business objectives.

Current wording

Developing pharmaceutical products, including conducting preclinical studies and clinical trials, is a very time-consuming, expensive, and uncertain process that takes years to complete. Our operations have consumed substantial amounts of cash, and we expect our expenses to increase in connection with our ongoing activities, particularly as we continue to conduct clinical trials of our product candidates. Even if one or more of our product candidates is approved for commercial sale, we will incur significant costs associated with sales, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution activities. Our expenses could increase beyond expectations if required by the FDA or other foreign regulatory agencies to perform clinical trials or preclinical studies in addition to those that we currently anticipate. Other unanticipated costs may also arise. Because the design and outcome of our planned and anticipated clinical trials are highly uncertain, we cannot reasonably estimate the actual amount of resources and funding that will be necessary to successfully complete the development and commercialization of any product candidate. We are not permitted to market or promote any product candidate before it receives marketing approval from the regulatory authorities. Accordingly, we will need to obtain substantial additional funding in order to continue our operations and pursue our business objectives.

Previous wording

We are dependent on the successful development, regulatory approval and commercialization of one or more of our product candidates, there can be no assurance that we may achieve any of these objectives.

Current wording

We are dependent on the successful design, development, regulatory approval and commercialization of one or more of our product candidates, there can be no assurance that we may achieve any of these objectives.

Previous wording

We have spent significant time, money and effort on the licensing and development of our core assets, including NPM-115 (high-dose exenatide implant), NPM-119 (exenatide implant) in preclinical stage development, NPM-139 (semaglutide implant), and OKV-119 (exenatide implant for feline patients) in initial feasibility testing with our proprietary NanoPortal implant technology. To date, we have not commenced clinical testing of any of our product candidates. All of our product candidates will require additional development, including clinical trials as well as further preclinical studies to evaluate their safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics, and to optimize their formulation. Our product candidates may require significant additional testing before advancing to pivotal clinical trials that are designed to generate sufficient safety and efficacy data to support a marketing application. Even if we conduct and complete such testing of our product candidates, there can be no assurance that we will obtain marketing approval for one or more of these candidates. Positive results obtained during early development do not necessarily mean later development will succeed or that regulatory approvals will be obtained. Our drug development efforts may not lead to commercially-viable products for any number of reasons, including because our product candidates fail to demonstrate safety and efficacy to the satisfaction of applicable regulatory authorities to support marketing approval, or because we have inadequate financial or other resources to advance our product candidates through development and approval processes. If any of our product candidates fail to demonstrate sufficient safety or efficacy data at any time to support their continued development, or we encounter other challenges in the development of our product candidates, we would experience potentially significant delays in, or be required to abandon, development of the product candidate.

Current wording

We have spent significant time, money and effort onour proprietary NanoPortal implant technology which will require additional design and development to support our emerging portfolio of drug/device combination product candidates, including NPM-115 (high-dose exenatide implant), NPM-139 (semaglutide implant), NPM-119 (exenatide implant), and OKV-119 (exenatide implant for companion cats). All of our product candidates will require additional design and development, including further enhancements to our NanoPortal technology, clinical trials as well as further preclinical studies to evaluate their safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics, and to optimize their formulation. Our product candidates may require significant additional design and testing before advancing to pivotal clinical trials that are designed to generate sufficient safety and efficacy data to support a marketing application. Even if we conduct and complete such testing of our product candidates, there can be no assurance that we will obtain marketing approval for one or more of these candidates. Positive results obtained during early development do not necessarily mean later development will succeed or that regulatory approvals will be obtained. Our drug development efforts may not lead to commercially viable products for any number of reasons, including because our product candidates fail to demonstrate safety and efficacy to the satisfaction of applicable regulatory authorities to support marketing approval, or because we have inadequate financial or other resources to advance our product candidates through development and approval processes. If any of our product candidates fail to demonstrate sufficient safety or efficacy data at any time to support their continued development, or we encounter other challenges in the development of our product candidates, we would experience potentially significant delays in, or be required to abandon, development of the product candidate.

Previous wording

We do not anticipate that any of our product candidates will be eligible to receive regulatory approval from the FDA, the EMA or comparable foreign authorities and begin commercialization for a number of years, if ever. Even if we ultimately receive regulatory approval for any of these product candidates, we may be unable to commercialize them successfully for a variety of reasons, either independently or in collaboration with third parties. These include, for example, the availability of alternative treatments, lack of cost-effectiveness, the cost of manufacturing the product on a commercial scale and competition with other drugs. The success of our product candidates may also be limited by the prevalence and severity of any adverse side effects or the willingness of patients and healthcare providers to use or administer our drug implants. If we fail to develop, obtain approval for and commercialize one or more of our product candidates, our business would be materially and adversely impacted.

Current wording

We do not anticipate that any of our product candidates will be eligible to receive regulatory approval from the FDA or comparable foreign authorities and begin commercialization for a number of years, if ever. Even if we ultimately receive regulatory approval for any of these product candidates, we may be unable to commercialize them successfully for a variety of reasons, either independently or in collaboration with third parties. These include, for example, the availability of alternative treatments, lack of cost-effectiveness, the cost of manufacturing the product on a commercial scale and competition with other drugs. The success of our product candidates may also be limited by the prevalence and severity of any adverse side effects or the willingness of patients and healthcare providers to use or administer our drug implants. If we fail to develop, obtain approval for and commercialize one or more of our product candidates, our business would be materially and adversely impacted.

Previous wording

To receive regulatory approval for our product candidates, adequate and well-controlled clinical trials must be conducted to demonstrate safety and efficacy in humans to the satisfaction of the FDA, the EMA, and comparable foreign authorities. We have not yet conducted clinical trials for our current product candidates and clinical testing of such product candidates may not yield results to support continued development or seeking regulatory approval. The development process is expensive, can take many years and has an uncertain outcome. Failure can occur at any stage of the process. We may experience numerous unforeseen events during, or as a result of, the development process that could delay or prevent development and approval of our product candidates, including the following:

Current wording

To receive regulatory approval for our product candidates, adequate and well-controlled clinical trials must be conducted to demonstrate safety and efficacy in humans to the satisfaction of the FDA and comparable foreign regulatory authorities. We have not yet conducted clinical trials for our current product candidates and clinical testing of such product candidates may not yield results to support continued development or seeking regulatory approval. The development process is expensive, can take many years and has an uncertain outcome. Failure can occur at any stage of the process. We may experience numerous unforeseen events during, or as a result of, the development process that could delay or prevent development and approval of our product candidates, including the following:

Previous wording

Even if our clinical trials generate data that we believe are promising, such data may not be sufficient to support seeking marketing approval by the FDA, the EMA, or comparable foreign authorities. Further, data generated during development can be interpreted in different ways, and the FDA, the EMA or comparable foreign authorities may interpret such data in different ways than we do. If we fail to generate data that adequately demonstrate the safety and efficacy of our product candidates to support marketing approval from regulatory authorities, we will not be able to market and commercialize these product candidates.

Current wording

Even if our clinical trials generate data that we believe are promising, such data may not be sufficient to support seeking marketing approval by the FDA or comparable foreign authorities. Further, data generated during development can be interpreted in different ways, and the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may interpret such data in different ways than we do. If we fail to generate data that adequately demonstrate the safety and efficacy of our product candidates to support marketing approval from regulatory authorities, we will not be able to market and commercialize these product candidates.

Previous wording

Undesirable side effects observed in preclinical studies or clinical trials of our product candidates could interrupt, delay, or halt their development and could result in the denial of regulatory approval by the FDA, the EMA, or comparable foreign authorities for any or all targeted indications or adversely affect the marketability of any such product candidates that receive regulatory approval.

Current wording

Undesirable side effects observed in preclinical studies or clinical trials of our product candidates could interrupt, delay, or halt their development and could result in the denial of regulatory approval by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities for any or all targeted indications or adversely affect the marketability of any such product candidates that receive regulatory approval.

Previous wording

We intend to expand our current pipeline of core assets by advancing drug implants from future and ongoing feasibility programs into preclinical and clinical development. However, the process of identifying and developing drug implants is expensive, time-consuming, and unpredictable. Data from our current preclinical programs may not support the clinical development of its lead compounds or other compounds from these programs, and we may not identify any additional drug compounds suitable for recommendation for clinical development. Moreover, any drug compounds that we select for clinical development may not generate sufficient safety and efficacy data that would support advancement into clinical trials or to continue clinical trials that are ongoing. Such findings would potentially impede our ability to maintain or expand our development pipeline. Our ability to identify new drug implants and advance them into preclinical and clinical development also depends upon our ability to fund our research and development operations, and there can be no assurance that additional funding will be available on acceptable terms, or at all.

Current wording

We intend to expand our current pipeline of core assets by continuing to advance drug implants from future and ongoing feasibility programs into preclinical and clinical development. However, the process of identifying and developing drug implants is expensive, time-consuming, and unpredictable. Data from our current preclinical programs may not support the clinical development of its lead compounds or other compounds from these programs, and we may not identify any additional drug compounds suitable for recommendation for clinical development. Moreover, any drug compounds that we select for clinical development may not generate sufficient safety and efficacy data that would support advancement into clinical trials or to continue clinical trials that are ongoing. Such findings would potentially impede our ability to maintain or expand our development pipeline. Our ability to identify new drug implant candidates and advance them into preclinical and clinical development also depends upon our ability to fund our research and development operations, and there can be no assurance that additional funding will be available on acceptable terms, or at all.******

Previous wording

In addition, once a clinical trial has begun, it may be suspended or terminated by us or our collaborators, institutional review boards, or, if applicable, data safety monitoring boards charged with overseeing our clinical trials, the FDA, the EMA, or comparable foreign authorities due to a number of factors, including:

Current wording

For instance, our IND for the NPM-119 program was on full clinical hold between August 2023 and June 2024. In addition, once a clinical trial has begun, it may be suspended or terminated by us or our collaborators, institutional review boards, or, if applicable, data safety monitoring boards charged with overseeing our clinical trials, the FDA, or comparable foreign authorities due to a number of factors, including:

Previous wording

Our drug implant candidates require properly trained healthcare professionals, which may include doctors, nurse practitioners and nurses, for sub-dermal placement into patients. These healthcare professionals would also be responsible for removal and replacement of a new drug implant. There can be no assurance that sufficient numbers of trained and/or certified healthcare professionals will be available or that the training or certification requirements will not be more burdensome than anticipated. Both factors could lead to difficulties in conducting our clinical trials and impair our development efforts for our product candidates.

Current wording

Our drug implant candidates require properly trained healthcare professionals, which may include doctors, nurse practitioners and nurses, for subdermal placement into patients. These healthcare professionals would also be responsible for removal and replacement of a new drug implant. There can be no assurance that sufficient numbers of trained and/or certified healthcare professionals will be available or that the training or certification requirements will not be more burdensome than anticipated. Both factors could lead to difficulties in conducting our clinical trials and impair our development efforts for our product candidates.

Previous wording

Many of our competitors have significantly greater financial resources and expertise in research and development, manufacturing, preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and marketing approved products. Some of our competitors with the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class include companies such as Novo Nordisk, AstraZeneca, and Eli Lilly. Smaller or early-stage companies may also prove to be significant competitors, particularly through collaborative arrangements with large and established companies. Our competitors may succeed in developing technologies and therapies that are more effective, better tolerated or less costly than those of our own, or that would render our product candidates obsolete and non-competitive. Even if we obtain regulatory approval for any of our product candidates, our competitors may succeed in obtaining regulatory approvals for their products earlier than we do. We will also face competition from these third parties in recruiting and retaining qualified scientific and management personnel, in establishing clinical trial sites and patient registration for clinical trials, and in acquiring and in-licensing technologies and products complementary to our programs or advantageous to our business.

Current wording

Many of our competitors have significantly greater financial resources and expertise in research and development, manufacturing, preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and marketing approved products. Some of our competitors in the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class include companies such as Novo Nordisk, AstraZeneca, and Eli Lilly. Smaller or early-stage companies may also prove to be significant competitors, particularly through collaborative arrangements with large and established companies. Our competitors may succeed in developing technologies and therapies that are more effective, better tolerated or less costly than those of our own, or that would render our product candidates obsolete and non-competitive. Even if we obtain regulatory approval for any of our product candidates, our competitors may succeed in obtaining regulatory approvals for their products earlier than we do. We will also face competition from these third parties in recruiting and retaining qualified scientific and management personnel, in establishing clinical trial sites and patient registration for clinical trials, and in acquiring and in-licensing technologies and products complementary to our programs or advantageous to our business.

Previous wording

Multiple GLP-1 receptor agonist products have been proven effective to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, including Trulicity (dulaglutide), Ozempic/Wegovy (semaglutide injection), and Victoza (liraglutide), Medical Guidelines may recommend preferential use of GLP-1 receptor agonists that have positive cardiovascular morbidity and mortality data in the products approved labeling. Since Bydureon, the NPM-119 reference drug, did not demonstrate a reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, NPM-119 will not have this claim in the approved product label unless we generate positive cardiovascular outcomes data with NPM-119. The lack of a cardiovascular outcomes benefit in the NPM-119 label may decrease its market potential, if approved.

Current wording

Multiple GLP-1 receptor agonist products have been proven effective to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, including Trulicity (dulaglutide), Ozempic/Wegovy (semaglutide injection), and Victoza (liraglutide), medical guidelines may recommend preferential use of GLP-1 receptor agonists that have positive cardiovascular morbidity and mortality data in the products approved labeling. Since Bydureon did not demonstrate a reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, NPM-119 would not have this claim in the approved product label unless we generate positive cardiovascular outcomes data with NPM-119. The lack of a cardiovascular outcomes benefit in the NPM-119 label may decrease its market potential, if approved.

Previous wording

Once an NDA, including a Section 505(b)(2) application, is approved, the product covered becomes a “listed drug” which can be cited by potential competitors in support of approval of an abbreviated new drug application, or ANDA. FDA regulations and other applicable regulations and policies provide incentives to manufacturers to create modified versions of a drug to facilitate the approval of an ANDA or other application for similar substitutes. If these manufacturers demonstrate that their product has the same active ingredient(s), dosage form, strength, route of administration, and conditions of use, or labeling, as our product candidate, they might only be required to conduct a relatively inexpensive study to show that their generic product is absorbed in the body at the same rate and to the same extent as, or is bioequivalent to, our product candidate (and in some cases even this limited bioequivalence testing can be waived by the FDA). Competition from generic equivalents to our product candidates could substantially limit our ability to generate revenues and therefore to obtain a return on the investments we have made in our product candidates.

Current wording

Once an NDA, including a Section 505(b)(2) application, is approved, the product covered becomes a “listed drug” which can be cited by potential competitors in support of approval of an abbreviated new drug application (“ANDA”). FDA regulations and other applicable regulations and policies provide incentives to manufacturers to create modified versions of a drug to facilitate the approval of an ANDA or other application for similar substitutes. If these manufacturers demonstrate that their product has the same active ingredient(s), dosage form, strength, route of administration, and conditions of use, or labeling, as our product candidate, they might only be required to conduct a relatively inexpensive study to show that their generic product is absorbed in the body at the same rate and to the same extent as, or is bioequivalent to, our product candidate (and in some cases even this limited bioequivalence testing can be waived by the FDA). Competition from generic equivalents to our product candidates could substantially limit our ability to generate revenues and therefore to obtain a return on the investments we have made in our product candidates.

Previous wording

We are subject to a multitude of manufacturing risks, any of which could substantially increase our costs and limit supply of our product candidates.

Current wording

We are subject to a multitude of complex manufacturing challenges and risks, including reliance on third parties, any of which could substantially increase our costs and limit supply of our product candidates.

Previous wording

The process of manufacturing our product candidates is complex, highly regulated, and subject to numerous risks. For example, the process of manufacturing our product candidates is susceptible to product loss due to contamination, equipment failure or improper installation or operation of equipment, or vendor or operator error. Even minor deviations from normal manufacturing processes for any of our product candidates could result in reduced production yields, product defects, and other supply disruptions. If microbial, viral, or other contaminations are discovered in our product candidates or in the manufacturing facilities in which our product candidates are made, such manufacturing facilities may need to be closed for an extended period to investigate and remedy the contamination. In addition, the manufacturing facilities in which its product candidates are made could be adversely affected by equipment failures, labor shortages, natural disasters, power failures and numerous other factors.

Current wording

The process of manufacturing our product candidates is complex, highly regulated, and subject to numerous risks. For example, the process of manufacturing our product candidates is susceptible to product loss due to contamination, equipment failure or improper installation or operation of equipment, or vendor or operator error. Even minor deviations from normal manufacturing processes for any of our product candidates could result in reduced production yields, product defects, and other supply disruptions. If microbial, viral, or other contaminations are discovered in our product candidates or in the manufacturing facilities in which our product candidates are made, such manufacturing facilities may need to be closed for an extended period to investigate and remedy the contamination. In addition, the manufacturing facilities in which its product candidates are made could be adversely affected by equipment failures, labor shortages, natural disasters, including but not limited to wildfires, earthquakes and floods, power failures and numerous other factors.

Previous wording

Our product candidates are subject to extensive regulation under the FDA, the EMA and comparable foreign authorities, and must undergo extensive clinical testing that can be costly and time consuming, with no assurance that regulatory approval will be obtained for any of our product candidates.

Current wording

Our product candidates are subject to extensive regulation under the FDA, the EMA and comparable foreign regulatory authorities, and must undergo extensive clinical testing that can be costly and time consuming, with no assurance that regulatory approval will be obtained for any of our product candidates.

Previous wording

The clinical development, manufacturing, labeling, storage, record-keeping, advertising, promotion, export, marketing, and distribution of our product candidates are subject to extensive regulation by the FDA and other U.S. regulatory agencies, the EMA, or comparable authorities in foreign markets. In the U.S., neither we nor any collaborators are permitted to conduct clinical testing in humans with our product candidates unless and until clearance is received to conduct clinical investigations under an investigational new drug application (IND) from the FDA or receive similar authorizations abroad. For example, we are not able to commence clinical trials of NPM-119 in the U.S. until we successfully address and lift the FDA’s current clinical hold. In addition, marketing of such product candidates may not occur unless and until approval of a new drug application (NDA) from the FDA or similar approvals by comparable foreign regulatory authorities are secured.

Current wording

The clinical development, manufacturing, labeling, storage, record-keeping, advertising, promotion, export, marketing, and distribution of our product candidates are subject to extensive regulation by the FDA and other U.S. regulatory agencies or comparable authorities in foreign markets. In the U.S., neither we nor any collaborators are permitted to conduct clinical testing in humans with our product candidates until the appropriate clearance is received under an investigational new drug application (IND) from the FDA or other appropriate authorizations are received from relevant foreign regulatory authorities abroad. In addition, marketing of such product candidates may not occur unless and until approval of a new drug application (NDA) from the FDA or similar approvals by comparable foreign regulatory authorities are secured.

Previous wording

The process of obtaining these approvals is expensive, often takes many years, and can vary substantially based upon the type, complexity and novelty of the product candidates involved. Approval policies or regulations may change and may be influenced by the results of other similar or competitive products, making it more difficult for us to achieve such approval in a timely manner or at all. Any guidance that may result from recent FDA advisory panel discussions may make it more expensive to develop and commercialize such product candidates. In addition, with respect to our current pipeline, we have filed only one IND, which is on clinical hold, and no NDAs with the FDA or similar applications with other foreign regulatory agencies. This lack of experience may impede our ability to obtain FDA or other foreign regulatory agency approval in a timely manner, if at all, for our product candidates.

Current wording

The process of obtaining these approvals is expensive, often takes many years, and can vary substantially based upon the type, complexity and novelty of the product candidates involved. Approval policies or regulations may change and may be influenced by the results of other similar or competitive products, making it more difficult for us to achieve such approval in a timely manner or at all. Any guidance that may result from recent FDA advisory panel discussions may make it more expensive to develop and commercialize such product candidates. In addition, with respect to our current pipeline, we have filed only one US IND, one clinical trial authorization request in Australia. Both requests have been granted (although our IND for the NPM-119 program was on full clinical hold between August 2023 and June 2024). No NDAs with the FDA or similar applications with other foreign regulatory agencies have been submitted. This lack of experience may impede our ability to obtain FDA or other foreign regulatory agency approval in a timely manner, if at all, for our product candidates.

Previous wording

Any inability to obtain these approvals would prevent us from commercializing our product candidates. The FDA, the EMA or comparable foreign authorities can delay, limit, or deny approval of a product candidate for many reasons, including:

Current wording

Any inability to obtain these approvals would prevent us from commercializing our product candidates. The FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities can delay, limit, or deny approval of a product candidate for many reasons, including:

Previous wording

With respect to one or more of our product candidates, including NPM-119 (exenatide implant), we plan to seek regulatory approval in the U.S. by filing an NDA under Section 505(b)(2) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, which is referred to as the 505(b)(2) pathway. The 505(b)(2) pathway allows at least some of the information required for NDA approval, such as safety and efficacy information on the active ingredient, to come from studies not conducted by or for the applicant. For NPM-119, we intend to rely on certain information from Bydureon® and/or Bydureon BCise®, AstraZeneca’s exenatide extended-release injectable products. If we are unable to reference data generated for Bydureon® and/or Bydureon BCise®, additional clinical studies, including a cardiovascular outcomes (CVOT) study, may be required and would add significant additional costs and a significant delay in our efforts to seek and secure marketing approval. Further, if a CVOT study were conducted, there can be no assurance that the study would generate favorable results and support U.S. registration.

Current wording

With respect to NPM-119 (exenatide implant), which is in development to treat patients with type 2 diabetes, we plan to seek regulatory approval in the U.S. by filing an NDA under Section 505(b)(2) of the FDCA, which is referred to as the 505(b)(2) pathway. The 505(b)(2) pathway allows at least some of the information required for NDA approval, such as safety and efficacy information on the active ingredient, to come from studies not conducted by or for the applicant. For NPM-119, we intend to rely on certain information from the Bydureon and/or Bydureon BCise applications. If we are unable to reference data generated for Bydureon and/or Bydureon BCise, additional clinical studies, including a cardiovascular outcomes ("CVOT") study, may be required and would add significant additional costs and a significant delay in our efforts to seek and secure marketing approval. Further, if a CVOT study were conducted, there can be no assurance that the study would generate favorable results and support U.S. registration.

Previous wording

Although we have discussed our intention to use the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway with the FDA, there can be no assurance that this pathway will be acceptable, and there can be no assurance that the FDA will not require additional testing to support seeking approval in the U.S. If the 505(b)2 regulatory pathway is not available, the costs of development may significantly increase and the projected timeline to approval and launch would be significantly delayed.

Current wording

Although we have discussed our intention to use the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway with the FDA, there can be no assurance that this pathway will be acceptable, and there can be no assurance that the FDA will not require additional testing to support seeking approval in the U.S. If the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway is not available, the costs of development may significantly increase and the projected timeline to approval and launch would be significantly delayed.

Previous wording

We intend to utilize the 505(b)(2) pathway for the regulatory approval of NPM-119 and other of our product candidates. Final marketing approval of NPM-119 or any of our other product candidates by the FDA, or other regulatory authorities may be delayed, limited, or denied, any of which would adversely affect our ability to generate operating revenues.

Current wording

We may utilize the 505(b)(2) pathway for the regulatory approval of NPM-115, NPM-119 and, potentially, other of our product candidates. Final marketing approval of NPM-115, NPM-119, or any of our other product candidates by the FDA or other regulatory authorities may be delayed, limited, or denied, any of which would adversely affect our ability to generate operating revenues.******

Previous wording

We intend to pursue a regulatory pathway pursuant to Section 505(b)(2) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, or FDCA, for the approval of NPM-119 and other of our product candidates, which allows us to rely on existing clinical data for the drug. Section 505(b)(2) was enacted as part of the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act of 1984, or the Hatch-Waxman Amendments, and permits the submission of an NDA where at least some of the information required for approval comes from preclinical studies or clinical trials not conducted by or for the applicant and for which the applicant has not obtained a right of reference. The FDA interprets Section 505(b)(2) of the FDCA to permit the applicant to rely upon the FDA’s previous findings of safety and efficacy for an approved product. The FDA requires submission of information needed to support any changes to a previously approved drug, such as published data or new studies conducted by the applicant or clinical trials demonstrating safety and efficacy. The FDA could refuse to file our NDA submissions, request additional information before accepting our submissions for filing or require additional information to sufficiently demonstrate safety and efficacy to support approval.

Current wording

We may pursue a regulatory pathway pursuant to Section 505(b)(2) of the FDCA for the approval of NPM-115, NPM-119 and other product candidates, which allows us to rely on existing preclinical and/or clinical data for the drug. Section 505(b)(2) was enacted as part of the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act of 1984, or the Hatch-Waxman Amendments, and permits the submission of an NDA where at least some of the information required for approval comes from preclinical studies or clinical trials not conducted by or for the applicant and for which the applicant has not obtained a right of reference. The FDA interprets Section 505(b)(2) of the FDCA to permit the applicant to rely upon the FDA's previous findings of safety and efficacy for an approved product. The FDA requires submission of information needed to support any changes to a previously approved drug, such as published data or new studies conducted by the applicant or clinical trials demonstrating safety and efficacy. The FDA could refuse to file our NDA submissions, request additional information before accepting our submissions for filing or require additional information to sufficiently demonstrate safety and efficacy to support approval.

Previous wording

If the FDA does not agree that the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway is appropriate or scientifically justified for our product candidates, we may need to conduct additional clinical trials, provide additional data and information, and meet additional standards for regulatory approval. For example, if we are unable to establish a bridge between our product candidates and the listed drug upon which we rely to demonstrate that such reliance is justified, we may be required to show safety and efficacy through one or more additional clinical trials. If this were to occur, the time and financial resources required to obtain FDA approval for these product candidates, and the complications and risks associated with these product candidates, would likely substantially increase. Moreover, an inability to pursue the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway would likely result in new competitive products reaching the market more quickly than our product candidates, which would likely materially adversely impact our competitive position and prospects. Even if we are allowed to pursue the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway, we cannot assure you that our product candidates will receive the requisite approvals for commercialization.

Current wording

In the case of NPM-119, if the FDA does not agree that the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway is appropriate or scientifically justified for our product candidates, we may need to conduct additional clinical trials, provide additional data and information, and meet additional standards for regulatory approval. Even if we are allowed to pursue the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway, we cannot assure you that our product candidates will receive the requisite approvals for commercialization.

Previous wording

Some of our product candidates, including NPM-119 which is designed as a GLP-1 implant for treatment of type 2 diabetes, are drug-device combination products which require coordination within the FDA and similar foreign regulatory agencies for review of their device and drug components. A combination product generally is defined as a product comprised of components from two or more regulatory categories (e.g., drug/device, device/biologic, drug/biologic). Each component of a combination product is subject to the requirements established by the FDA for that type of component, whether a new drug, biologic or device. In order to facilitate pre-market review of combination products, the FDA designates one of its centers to have primary jurisdiction for the pre-market review and regulation of the overall product based upon a determination by the FDA of the primary mode of action of the combination product. Where approval of the drug and device is sought under a single application, there could be delays in the approval process due to the increased complexity of the review process and the lack of a well-established review process and criteria. The EMA has a parallel review process in place for combination products, the potential effects of which in terms of approval and timing could independently affect our ability to market our combination products in Europe. Although the FDA and similar foreign regulatory agencies have systems in place for the review and approval of combination products such as ours, we may experience delays in the development and commercialization of our product candidates due to regulatory timing constraints and uncertainties in the product development and approval process.

Current wording

Some of our product candidates are drug-device combination products which require coordination within the FDA and similar foreign regulatory agencies for review of their device and drug components. A combination product generally is defined as a product comprised of components from two or more regulatory categories (e.g., drug/device, device/biologic, drug/biologic). Each component of a combination product is subject to the requirements established by the FDA for that type of component, whether a new drug, biologic or device. In order to facilitate pre-market review of combination products, the FDA designates one of its centers to have primary jurisdiction for the pre-market review and regulation of the overall product based upon a determination by the FDA of the primary mode of action of the combination product. Where approval of the drug and device is sought under a single application, there could be delays in the approval process due to the increased complexity of the review process and the lack of a well-established review process and criteria. In the European Union, depending on the nature of the drug-device combination product, an opinion may be required from a notified body on the device element of the product (for single integral products) or from the EMA on the medicinal product element (for medical devices with an ancillary medicinal substance), as part of the approval process for the applicable product. Any issues identified in such opinion or any delays in the provision of such opinion could independently affect our ability to market our combination products in the European Union. Although the FDA and similar foreign regulatory agencies have systems in place for the review and approval of combination products such as ours, we may experience delays in the development and commercialization of our product candidates due to regulatory timing constraints and uncertainties in the product development and approval process.

Previous wording

All entities involved in the preparation of therapeutics for clinical trials or commercial sale, including our contract manufacturers for our product candidates, are subject to extensive regulation. Components of a finished therapeutic product approved for commercial sale or used in clinical trials must be manufactured in accordance with cGMPs. These regulations govern manufacturing processes and procedures and the implementation and operation of quality systems to control and assure the quality of investigational products and products approved for sale. Poor control of production processes can lead to the introduction of contaminants or to inadvertent changes in the properties or stability of our product candidates that may not be detectable in final product testing. We or our contract manufacturers must supply all necessary documentation in support of an NDA or marketing authorization application (MAA) on a timely basis and must adhere to good laboratory practices (GLP) and cGMP regulations enforced by the FDA, the EMA, or comparable foreign authorities through their facilities inspection program. The facilities and quality systems of some or all of our third-party contractors must pass a pre-approval inspection for compliance with the applicable regulations as a condition of regulatory approval of our product candidates. In addition, the regulatory authorities may, at any time, audit or inspect a manufacturing facility involved with the preparation of our product candidates or the associated quality systems for compliance with the regulations applicable to the activities being conducted. Although we plan to oversee the contract manufacturers that we use, we cannot control the manufacturing process of, and are completely dependent on, our contract manufacturers for compliance with the regulatory requirements. If these facilities do not pass a pre-approval plant inspection, regulatory approval of the products may not be granted or may be substantially delayed until any violations are corrected to the satisfaction of the regulatory authority, if ever.

Current wording

All entities involved in the preparation of therapeutics for clinical trials or commercial sale, including our contract manufacturers for our product candidates, are subject to extensive regulation. Components of a finished therapeutic product approved for commercial sale or used in clinical trials must be manufactured in accordance with cGMPs. These regulations govern manufacturing processes and procedures and the implementation and operation of quality systems to control and assure the quality of investigational products and products approved for sale. Poor control of production processes can lead to the introduction of contaminants or to inadvertent changes in the properties or stability of our product candidates that may not be detectable in final product testing. We or our contract manufacturers must supply all necessary documentation in support of an NDA or marketing authorization application (“MAA”) on a timely basis and must adhere to good laboratory practices (“GLP”) and cGMP regulations enforced by the FDA, the EMA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities through their facilities inspection program. The facilities and quality systems of some or all of our third-party contractors must pass a pre-approval inspection for compliance with the applicable regulations as a condition of regulatory approval of our product candidates. In addition, the regulatory authorities may, at any time, audit or inspect a manufacturing facility involved with the preparation of our product candidates or the associated quality systems for compliance with the regulations applicable to the activities being conducted. Although we plan to oversee the contract manufacturers that we use, we cannot control the manufacturing process of, and are completely dependent on, our contract manufacturers for compliance with the regulatory requirements. If these facilities do not pass a pre-approval plant inspection, regulatory approval of the products may not be granted or may be substantially delayed until any violations are corrected to the satisfaction of the regulatory authority, if ever.

Previous wording

Even if one or more of our product candidates receive regulatory approval, the FDA, the EMA, or comparable foreign authorities may still impose significant restrictions on the indicated uses or marketing of the product candidates or impose ongoing requirements for potentially costly post-approval studies and trials. In addition, regulatory agencies subject a product, its manufacturer and the manufacturer’s facilities to continual review and periodic inspections. Manufacturers and manufacturers’ facilities are required to comply with extensive FDA, and comparable foreign regulatory authority, requirements, including ensuring that quality control and manufacturing procedures conform to cGMP regulations and applicable product tracking and tracing requirements. Manufacturers and other parties involved in the drug supply chain for prescription drug products must also comply with product tracking and tracing requirements and for notifying the FDA of counterfeit, diverted, stolen and intentionally adulterated products or products that are otherwise unfit for distribution in the U.S. If a regulatory agency discovers previously unknown problems with a product, including adverse events of unanticipated severity or frequency, or problems with the facility where the product is manufactured, a regulatory agency may impose restrictions on that product, on our company or on any of our collaborators, including requiring withdrawal of the product from the market.

Current wording

Even if one or more of our product candidates receive regulatory approval, the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may still impose significant restrictions on the indicated uses or marketing of the product candidates or impose ongoing requirements for potentially costly post-approval studies and trials. In addition, regulatory agencies subject a product, its manufacturer and the manufacturer’s facilities to continual review and periodic inspections. Manufacturers and manufacturers’ facilities are required to comply with extensive FDA, and comparable foreign regulatory authority, requirements, including ensuring that quality control and manufacturing procedures conform to cGMP regulations and applicable product tracking and tracing requirements. Manufacturers and other parties involved in the drug supply chain for prescription drug products must also comply with product tracking and tracing requirements and for notifying the FDA of counterfeit, diverted, stolen and intentionally adulterated products or products that are otherwise unfit for distribution in the U.S. If a regulatory agency discovers previously unknown problems with a product, including adverse events of unanticipated severity or frequency, or problems with the facility where the product is manufactured, a regulatory agency may impose restrictions on that product, on our company or on any of our collaborators, including requiring withdrawal of the product from the market.

Previous wording

Our product candidates will also be subject to ongoing FDA, the EMA, or comparable foreign authorities’ requirements, including those related to the labeling, packaging, storage, advertising, promotion, record-keeping and submission of safety and other post-market information on the drug. Any government investigation of alleged violations of law could require us to expend significant time and resources in response and could generate negative publicity. Any failure to comply with ongoing regulatory requirements may significantly and adversely affect our ability to generate revenues from any of our product candidates that are approved for commercialization. If our product candidates fail to comply with applicable regulatory requirements, or there is later discovery of previously unknown adverse events or other problems with our products or their manufacturers or manufacturing processes, a regulatory agency may:

Current wording

Our product candidates will also be subject to ongoing FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities’ requirements, including those related to the labeling, packaging, storage, advertising, promotion, record-keeping and submission of safety and other post-market information on the drug. Any government investigation of alleged violations of law could require us to expend significant time and resources in response and could generate negative publicity. Any failure to comply with ongoing regulatory requirements may significantly and adversely affect our ability to generate revenues from any of our product candidates that are approved for commercialization. If our product candidates fail to comply with applicable regulatory requirements, or there is later discovery of previously unknown adverse events or other problems with our products or their manufacturers or manufacturing processes, a regulatory agency may:

Previous wording

The FDA, the EMA and comparable foreign authorities actively enforce the laws and regulations prohibiting the promotion of off-label uses.

Current wording

The FDA, the EMA and comparable foreign regulatory authorities actively enforce the laws and regulations prohibiting the promotion of off-label uses.

Previous wording

The FDA, the EMA and comparable foreign authorities strictly regulate the promotional claims that may be made about prescription products, such as our product candidates, if approved. In particular, a product may not be promoted for uses that are not approved by the FDA, the EMA or comparable foreign authorities as reflected in the product’s approved labeling. If we receive marketing approval for one or more of our product candidates for any particular indications, physicians may nevertheless use our products for their patients in a manner that is inconsistent with the approved label, if the physicians personally believe in their professional medical judgment that our products could be used in such manner. However, if we are found to have promoted our products for any off-label uses, the federal government could levy civil, criminal, or administrative penalties, and seek fines against us. Such enforcement has become more common in the industry. The FDA, the EMA or comparable foreign authorities could also request that we enter into a consent decree or a corporate integrity agreement or seek a permanent injunction against us under which specified promotional conduct is monitored, changed, or curtailed. If we cannot successfully manage the promotion of our product candidates, if approved, we could become subject to significant liability, which would materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

The FDA, the EMA and comparable foreign authorities strictly regulate the promotional claims that may be made about prescription products, such as our product candidates, if approved. In particular, a product may not be promoted for uses that are not approved by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities as reflected in the product’s approved labeling. If we receive marketing approval for one or more of our product candidates for any particular indications, physicians may nevertheless use our products for their patients in a manner that is inconsistent with the approved label, if the physicians personally believe in their professional medical judgment that our products could be used in such manner. However, if we are found to have promoted our products for any off-label uses, the federal government could levy civil, criminal, or administrative penalties, and seek fines against us. The FDA, the EMA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities could also request that we enter into a consent decree or a corporate integrity agreement or seek a permanent injunction against us under which specified promotional conduct is monitored, changed, or curtailed. If we cannot successfully manage the promotion of our product candidates, if approved, we could become subject to significant liability, which would materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

The ability of the FDA to review and approve new products can be affected by a variety of factors, including government budget and funding levels, the ability to hire and retain key personnel and the acceptance of user fees payments, and statutory, regulatory, and policy changes. Average review times at the agency have fluctuated in recent years as a result. If a prolonged government shutdown occurs, if the FDA is required to furlough review staff or necessary employees, or if the agency operations are otherwise impacted, it could significantly affect the ability of the FDA to timely review and process our regulatory submissions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business. Further, future government shutdowns could impact our ability to access the public markets and obtain necessary capital in order to properly capitalize and continue our operations.

Current wording

Currently, federal agencies in the U.S. are operating under a continuing resolution that is set to expire on September 30, 2025. Without appropriation of additional funding to federal agencies, our business operations related to our product development activities for the U.S. market could be impacted. The ability of the FDA to review and approve new products can be affected by a variety of factors, including government budget and funding levels, the ability to hire and retain key personnel and the acceptance of user fees payments, layoffs, and statutory, regulatory, and policy changes. Average review times at the agency have fluctuated in recent years as a result. If a prolonged government shutdown occurs, if the FDA is required to furlough review staff or necessary employees, if there are substantial leadership or policy changes, or if agency operations are otherwise impacted, it could significantly affect the ability of the FDA to timely review and process our regulatory submissions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We may be exposed to product liability, non-clinical and clinical liability risks which could place a substantial financial burden on our business.

Current wording

We may be exposed to product liability risks which could place a substantial financial burden on our business.

Previous wording

Our business exposes us to potential product liability and other liability risks that are inherent in the testing, manufacturing, and marketing of medical products and the subsequent sale of these products by. In addition, the use in our clinical trials of pharmaceutical and related products and the subsequent sale of these products may cause us to bear a portion of or all product liability risks. If a products liability claim is brought against us, we will be required to expend significant time and resources in defending against such a claim, and such defense may not ultimately be successful. We do not currently maintain clinical trial liability insurance, although we intend to seek coverage in connection with initiating our first clinical trial of NPM-119. There can be no assurance that we will secure clinical trial liability insurance on commercially reasonable terms or at all. As a result, products liability risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

Our business exposes us to potential product liability and other liability risks that are inherent in the testing, manufacturing, and marketing of medical products and the subsequent sale of these products. In addition, the use in our clinical trials of pharmaceutical and related products and the subsequent sale of these products may cause us to bear a portion of or all product liability risks. If a products liability claim is brought against us, we will be required to expend significant time and resources in defending against such a claim, and such defense may not ultimately be successful. We currently have clinical trial liability insurance coverage in connection with our ongoing LIBERATE-1 clinical trial supporting our NPM-115 program. There can be no assurance that we will secure clinical trial liability insurance on commercially reasonable terms or at all. As a result, products liability risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

Periodic maintenance fees, renewal fees, annuity fees and various other governmental fees on patents and/or patent applications will be due to be paid to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and various governmental patent agencies outside of the U.S. in several stages over the lifetime of the applicable patent and/or patent application. The USPTO and various non-U.S. governmental patent agencies require compliance with a number of procedural, documentary, fee payment and other similar provisions during the patent application process. In many cases, an inadvertent lapse can be cured by payment of a late fee or by other means in accordance with the applicable rules. However, there are situations in which noncompliance can result in abandonment or lapse of the patent or patent application, resulting in partial or complete loss of patent rights in the relevant jurisdiction. If this occurs with respect to our in-licensed patents or patent applications that we may file in the future, our competitors might be able to use its technologies, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

Periodic maintenance fees, renewal fees, annuity fees and various other governmental fees on patents and/or patent applications will be due to be paid to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (the“USPTO”) and various governmental patent agencies outside of the U.S. in several stages over the lifetime of the applicable patent and/or patent application. The USPTO and various non-U.S. governmental patent agencies require compliance with a number of procedural, documentary, fee payment and other similar provisions during the patent application process. In many cases, an inadvertent lapse can be cured by payment of a late fee or by other means in accordance with the applicable rules. However, there are situations in which noncompliance can result in abandonment or lapse of the patent or patent application, resulting in partial or complete loss of patent rights in the relevant jurisdiction. If this occurs with respect to our in-licensed patents or patent applications that we may file in the future, our competitors might be able to use its technologies, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.