Rapport Therapeutics Accelerates Phase 3 Program for RAP-219 and Expands Epilepsy Portfolio
On January 7, 2026, Rapport Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: RAPP), a clinical-stage biotechnology company specialized in precision medicine for neurological and psychiatric disorders, announced significant advancements in its pipeline. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the green light for the initiation of a Phase 3 program for RAP-219, targeting focal onset seizures (FOS). This program is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026. Furthermore, the company is expanding its epilepsy portfolio with a new program aimed at primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (PGTCS).
Insights from the CEO
Abraham N. Ceesay, CEO of Rapport, highlighted the robust Phase 2a data supporting RAP-219's potential role as a leading treatment option for FOS, estimating its market opportunity could exceed **$2 billion** in the U.S. if approved. Ceesay stated, “We are excited to expand clinical development into primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, reflecting our focus on building a growing epilepsy portfolio with a potential best-in-class profile.”
Clinical and Pipeline Updates
Rapport is systematically prioritizing programs with the highest potential for patient impact and long-term corporate value. The company aims to maintain a steady stream of milestones throughout 2026 and beyond, particularly for the RAP-219 epilepsy portfolio. Key updates include:
- Phase 3 Program in FOS: Accelerated initiation planned for the second quarter of 2026, previously set for the third quarter.
- New Open-label Trial: Enrollment has started for a long-term safety trial for patients from the Phase 2a FOS trial, with results expected in the second half of 2026.
- Expansion into PGTCS: Rapport plans to initiate a Phase 3 trial for RAP-219 in PGTCS by the first half of 2027, filling an important gap in epilepsy treatment.
- Bipolar Mania Trial Progress: Ongoing Phase 2 trial in bipolar mania on track to report topline results in early 2027.
- Long-Acting Injectable Development: Expected to commence IND-enabling activities in Q1 2026.
Additional Pipeline Developments
Beyond its epilepsy portfolio, Rapport is focusing on chronic pain with its promising α6β4 program, planning to defer investment in the Phase 2 diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) program for RAP-219 for strategic realignment in 2026.
Financial Position and Market Outlook
As of the third quarter of 2025, Rapport maintains a robust cash position with **$513 million** in cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments. This financial stability is expected to fund operations through the second half of 2029. The company will further present updates, including its strategic direction, at the upcoming 44th Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference on January 14, 2026.
About Rapport Therapeutics
Rapport Therapeutics is dedicated to advancing small molecule precision medicines for neurological and psychiatric conditions. The company's innovative RAP technology platform underpins its strategic focus on developing treatments with the potential to address significant unmet medical needs, especially in epilepsy and chronic pain.
Stay Informed
Investors and other interested parties can access further information about Rapport through its Investor Relations website and LinkedIn page. Consistent updates and disclosures will be made available through these platforms as part of the company’s commitment to transparency under Regulation FD.