SEP-227162 is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), a candidate that Sepracor has under development for the treatment of depression and/or anxiety. Sepracor completed a Phase I study of SEP-227162 in 2007 and, in the fourth quarter of 2008, submitted a briefing package to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding a Phase III program for SEP-227162. The FDA has indicated that the company may advance SEP-227162 to Phase III. Sepracor is currently evaluating initiating a Phase III registration trial and is strategically considering options for the platform as a combination treatment approach to depression.

Depression
Depression is a serious medical condition. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, symptoms of depression include sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed, change in appetite or weight, difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, physical slowing or agitation, energy loss, feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt, difficulty thinking or concentrating, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.