BioXcel Therapeutics Submits Supplemental New Drug Application for IGALMI® in Outpatient Settings
On January 14, 2026, BioXcel Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: BTAI), a biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative neuroscience solutions, submitted a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This application seeks to expand the labeling for IGALMI® to support the acute treatment of agitation associated with bipolar disorders and schizophrenia in at-home settings.
Significance of the sNDA Submission
The recent sNDA submission aims to make IGALMI® available for outpatient treatment, addressing a critical gap in care where no FDA-approved options currently exist. This outreach is particularly vital for the estimated 7.3 million individuals in the U.S. diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorders, who collectively experience approximately 57 to 77 million annual episodes of agitation.
Background on IGALMI®
Approved by the FDA in April 2022, IGALMI® is the first orally dissolving sublingual film designed for managing agitation in adults under healthcare supervision. The new sNDA seeks to extend its usage to less supervised environments, enhancing patient access to effective treatment options.
“The successful submission of this sNDA for IGALMI represents an important milestone in expanding access to patients who are experiencing acute agitation episodes in the at-home setting,” stated Vimal Mehta, Ph.D., CEO of BioXcel Therapeutics. “This expansion fulfills a clear unmet medical need in an area where agitation often originates.”
Clinical Trial Support and Market Preparation
The submission of the sNDA is underpinned by promising results from the Phase 3 SERENITY At-Home safety trial, which demonstrated that BXCL501, the active component of IGALMI®, is well-tolerated. Furthermore, the FDA provided positive feedback during the pre-sNDA meeting, enhancing optimism for potential approval.
Dr. Mehta added, “We are advancing our pre-commercialization efforts, including a market opportunity assessment, under the guidance of our newly appointed Interim Chief Commercial Officer, Mark Pavao. We aim to collaborate closely with the FDA for a potential approval by the end of this year.”
Safety Information and Usage
IGALMI® (dexmedetomidine) is prescribed for managing agitation associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It should be administered under the supervision of healthcare professionals. Important safety information includes:
- Potential for decreased blood pressure and heart rate changes, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions.
- Patients are advised against operating heavy machinery or driving for at least 8 hours post-administration due to potential drowsiness.
- Withdrawal symptoms may occur if IGALMI is used longer than 24 hours.
About BioXcel Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: BTAI)
BioXcel Therapeutics, Inc. utilizes artificial intelligence to create transformative medicines in neuroscience. Alongside its subsidiary OnkosXcel Therapeutics, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies across various healthcare domains. For more information, please visit bioxceltherapeutics.com.
Conclusion
The submission of the sNDA for IGALMI® marks a significant step toward improving treatment accessibility for patients experiencing agitation linked to schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. The potential approval, targeted for late 2026, underscores BioXcel's commitment to addressing critical healthcare needs.