Full-Time
Posted on 10/31/2025
Develops and commercializes CNS disorder therapies
$139k - $173.6k/yr
Minnesota, USA + 2 more
More locations: Indiana, USA | Illinois, USA
Remote
ACADIA Pharmaceuticals develops and commercializes medicines for central nervous system (CNS) disorders, focusing on neurological and psychiatric conditions with unmet medical needs. Its work centers on identifying drug candidates, advancing them through preclinical and clinical trials, and, upon regulatory approval, bringing therapies to market. Its products address CNS conditions such as Parkinson's disease psychosis, reflecting a commitment to treating complex brain disorders. The company combines in-house research with potential strategic collaborations to expand its portfolio and reach. Unlike peers that rely on a single development path, ACADIA emphasizes a broad pipeline and the ability to commercialize approved therapies, aiming to provide effective CNS treatments to patients and improve outcomes in mental health and neuroscience.
Company Size
501-1,000
Company Stage
IPO
Headquarters
San Diego, California
Founded
1993
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Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Paid Sick Leave
Paid Parental Leave
Tuition Reimbursement
Acadia Pharmaceuticals announces broad U.S. Availability of DAYBUE STIX for the treatment of Rett Syndrome. Acadia Pharmaceuticals expands U.S. Access to DAYBUE STIX for patients with Rett Syndrome. Acadia Pharmaceuticals has announced that DAYBUE(R) STIX (trofinetide) for oral solution - a newly developed powder formulation of its Rett syndrome therapy - is now broadly available across the United States. This latest offering represents an important advancement in treatment flexibility for patients living with Rett syndrome, a complex genetic condition that primarily affects girls and is associated with severe cognitive, motor, and communication impairments. The DAYBUE STIX formulation, which received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in December 2025, is designed as a dye-free and preservative-free powder that can be mixed into liquids for oral administration. Importantly, the new formulation has been shown to be bioequivalent to the original DAYBUE oral solution, meaning it delivers the same level of efficacy and safety while offering enhanced convenience and adaptability. This ensures that patients can continue to benefit from the therapeutic effects of trofinetide while gaining additional options tailored to their individual preferences and needs. Trofinetide, the active ingredient in DAYBUE, is a synthetic analog of a naturally occurring peptide derived from insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). It is designed to address core symptoms of Rett syndrome by reducing neuroinflammation and supporting synaptic function. Since its initial approval in 2023 as an oral solution, DAYBUE has become a foundational therapy in the management of Rett syndrome, marking one of the first disease-specific treatments available for this condition. The introduction of DAYBUE STIX builds on this foundation by offering a more flexible mode of administration. Unlike the ready-to-use liquid formulation, the STIX version is provided in single-use packets containing powder that can be mixed with a variety of water-based liquids, including juice, tea, lemonade, limeade, or hydration beverages. This allows caregivers to tailor the taste and volume of each dose to suit the preferences and tolerability of the patient, which can be particularly important for individuals with sensory sensitivities or feeding challenges - a common issue in Rett syndrome. Additionally, the packet-based design enhances portability, making it easier for families to administer treatment outside the home, such as during travel or school activities. This added convenience is expected to improve adherence to therapy, which is critical for maintaining consistent therapeutic benefits over time. Early feedback from caregivers has been encouraging. According to Tom Garner, Chief Commercial Officer at Acadia Pharmaceuticals, initial responses from a limited launch group indicated high levels of satisfaction with the new formulation. More than 80% of early users reported positive experiences, particularly noting the increased flexibility and portability offered by DAYBUE STIX. Garner emphasized that these real-world insights are invaluable as the company continues to refine its approach to supporting patients and caregivers managing Rett syndrome. He also highlighted that the ability to customize dosing in real-world settings may lead to more personalized care, aligning with broader trends in precision medicine and patient-centered healthcare. Acadia remains committed to gathering ongoing feedback from the Rett syndrome community to better understand how its therapies can meet evolving patient needs. The importance of flexible and individualized treatment approaches has also been underscored by recent expert consensus recommendations. A steering committee composed of specialists affiliated with centers designated by the International Rett Syndrome Foundation has recognized trofinetide oral solution as part of the standard of care for individuals with Rett syndrome. These experts emphasized the value of early initiation of therapy and the importance of sustained treatment to achieve optimal outcomes. The consensus recommendations also highlight the need for personalized decision-making in clinical practice, taking into account the unique characteristics and circumstances of each patient. This includes considerations such as age, symptom severity, comorbidities, and caregiver preferences. The availability of multiple formulations of trofinetide, including DAYBUE STIX, supports this individualized approach by providing clinicians and families with greater flexibility in how treatment is administered. Clinical experts in the field have welcomed the introduction of the new formulation. Arthur Beisang, MD, from the Department of Pediatrics at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, noted that DAYBUE STIX offers an additional option that can be tailored to the specific needs of patients and caregivers. He emphasized that this patient-centered approach is consistent with current best practices in Rett syndrome management, which prioritize comprehensive and individualized care strategies. Dr. Beisang also pointed out that the ability to customize treatment delivery may help address practical challenges faced by families, such as difficulties with medication administration or patient resistance to certain tastes or textures. By providing more options, healthcare providers can work more closely with families to identify the most suitable approach for each patient, potentially improving both adherence and overall quality of life. The approval of DAYBUE STIX was supported by a bioequivalence study demonstrating that the powder formulation provides comparable systemic exposure to the original oral solution. This ensures that patients transitioning between formulations can expect consistent therapeutic effects without compromising safety or efficacy. The foundational clinical evidence for trofinetide's benefits comes from the pivotal Phase 3 LAVENDER(TM) study, which evaluated the original oral solution in patients with Rett syndrome and demonstrated statistically significant improvements in key clinical endpoints. Acadia Pharmaceuticals has also emphasized its commitment to supporting patients and caregivers throughout the treatment journey. Through its Acadia Connect(R) program, the company offers a range of services, including financial assistance, insurance navigation, and prescription support. This comprehensive support system is designed to reduce barriers to access and ensure that patients can benefit from therapy without undue burden. Families interested in exploring DAYBUE STIX are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers to determine whether the new formulation is appropriate for their specific situation. Importantly, the original DAYBUE oral solution remains available, giving patients and caregivers the option to choose the formulation that best meets their needs. In summary, the nationwide availability of DAYBUE STIX marks a meaningful advancement in the treatment of Rett syndrome. By combining proven efficacy with enhanced flexibility, portability, and patient-centered design, the new formulation has the potential to improve the treatment experience for both patients and caregivers. As Acadia Pharmaceuticals continues to expand its portfolio and deepen its engagement with the Rett syndrome community, innovations like DAYBUE STIX underscore the company's commitment to addressing unmet needs and improving outcomes in rare neurological disorders. About Rett Syndrome Rett syndrome is a rare, complex, neurodevelopmental disorder that may occur over four stages and occurs in approximately one of every 10,000 to 15,000 female births worldwide. [5-7] In the US, 6,000 to 9,000 patients are affected. [8] A child with Rett syndrome exhibits an early period of apparently normal development until six to 18 months, when their skills seem to slow down or stagnate. This is typically followed by a duration of regression when the child loses acquired communication skills and purposeful hand use. The child may then experience a plateau period in which they show mild recovery in cognitive interests, but body movements remain severely diminished. As they age, those living with Rett may continue to experience a stage of motor deterioration, which can last the rest of the patient's life. [6] Rett syndrome is typically caused by a genetic mutation on the MECP2 gene. [9] In preclinical studies, deficiency in MeCP2 function is thought to lead to impairment in synaptic communication, and the deficits in synaptic function may be associated with Rett manifestations. [9-11] Symptoms of Rett syndrome may also include development of hand stereotypies, such as hand wringing and clapping, and gait abnormalities. [12] Most Rett patients typically live into adulthood and require round-the-clock care. [5.13] About DAYBUE (R)(trofinetide) and DAYBUE (R) STIX (trofinetide) Trofinetide is a synthetic analog of the N-terminal tripeptide of insulin-like growth factor-1. The mechanism by which trofinetide exerts therapeutic effects in patients with Rett syndrome is unknown. In animal studies, trofinetide has been shown to increase branching of dendrites and synaptic plasticity signals. [14]
ACADIA Pharmaceuticals reported over $1 billion in combined net sales from its commercial products NUPLAZID and DAYBUE during a presentation at the Citizens Life Sciences Conference. CFO Mark Schneyer said the company expects approximately $1.25 billion in sales for the year and maintains a strong balance sheet with over $800 million in cash, no debt, and positive cash flow. The company's lead investigational asset, remlifanserin, is being studied for Alzheimer's disease psychosis and Lewy body dementia psychosis. Phase 2 Alzheimer's disease psychosis trial results are expected between August and October. Head of Clinical Development Srdjan Stankovic said the programme incorporates lessons from prior work, including targeting patients with severe psychosis, using more sensitive outcome measures, and implementing blood-based biomarkers to confirm diagnosis.
Acadia Pharmaceuticals has appointed Jonathan M. Poole to its board of directors, effective 3 March 2026. Poole will serve on the company's audit committee, bringing extensive biopharmaceutical finance leadership experience. Since March 2020, Poole has served as senior vice president of finance at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, leading the global finance team through significant research and development portfolio growth and multiple acquisitions. Previously, he held chief financial officer positions at Evelo Biosciences and Genocea Biosciences. Acadia, which develops treatments for neurological and rare diseases, holds FDA-approved therapies for Parkinson's disease psychosis and Rett syndrome. The company is advancing programmes in Alzheimer's disease psychosis and Lewy body dementia psychosis.
Acadia Pharmaceuticals appoints Jonathan M. Poole to its Board of Directors. SAN DIEGO-(BUSINESS WIRE)-Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: ACAD) today announced the appointment of Jonathan M. Poole to its Board of Directors, effective March 3, 2026. Mr. Poole will serve on the Company's Audit Committee and brings deep biopharmaceutical finance leadership experience in supporting global growth and innovation across multiple therapeutic areas and modalities. "Jonathan brings extensive biotechnology corporate leadership experience and a proven track record of supporting significant business growth across complex, global organizations," said Stephen R. Biggar, M.D., Ph.D., Chairman of Acadia's Board of Directors. "His appointment further strengthens the Board's financial and operational expertise at a pivotal time as Acadia continues to execute its growth strategy, advance its commercial portfolio and pipeline, and deliver sustained, long-term value for shareholders." "I am honored to join Acadia's Board of Directors," said Mr. Poole. "I look forward to working with the Board and management team to support the Company's mission of developing and delivering innovative therapies for patients with significant unmet needs." Since March 2020, Mr. Poole has served as Senior Vice President, Finance at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc., where he has led the global finance team during a period of significant R&D portfolio and global commercial growth and diversification as well as the execution and integration of multiple acquisitions. Previously, from March 2018 to March 2020, Mr. Poole served as Chief Financial Officer of Evelo Biosciences, Inc., a biotechnology company developing orally delivered product candidates for inflammation and cancer. Prior to that, from April 2014 to March 2018, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Genocea Biosciences, Inc., a biotechnology company focused on developing infectious disease and neoantigen cancer vaccines. From July 2018 through March 2020, Mr. Poole also served as a director of Codiak Biosciences, Inc., where he was Chair of the Audit Committee. Mr. Poole received a B.Sc. in Biological Sciences from Durham University in the United Kingdom and an M.B.A. from London Business School. About Acadia Pharmaceuticals Acadia is committed to turning scientific promise into meaningful innovation that makes the difference for underserved neurological and rare disease communities around the world. Our commercial portfolio includes the first and only FDA-approved treatments for Parkinson's disease psychosis and Rett syndrome. We are developing the next wave of therapeutic advancements with a robust and diverse pipeline that includes mid- to late-stage programs in Alzheimer's disease psychosis and Lewy body dementia psychosis, along with earlier-stage programs that address other underserved patient needs. At Acadia, we're here to be their difference. For more information, visit us at acadia.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X. Contacts. Investor Contact: Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. Al Kildani (858) 261-2872 [email protected] Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. Jessica Tieszen (858) 261-2950 [email protected] Media Contact: Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. Deb Kazenelson (818) 395-3043 [email protected] More News From Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. SAN DIEGO-( BUSINESS WIRE )-Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: ACAD) today announced that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) informed the company it has formally adopted a negative opinion regarding the Marketing Authorization Application for trofinetide for the treatment of Rett syndrome in patients two years of age and older. Acadia has reviewed the CHMP grounds for refusal in detail and intends to request a re-examination of the... SAN DIEGO-( BUSINESS WIRE )-Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: ACAD), today announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2025. "Acadia closed 2025 with another strong quarter, capping a milestone year in which we surpassed $1 billion in annual revenue for the first time," said Catherine Owen Adams, Chief Executive Officer. "NUPLAZID had another strong quarter driven by underlying volume growth, reflecting continued momentum in the business. In the fo... SAN DIEGO-( BUSINESS WIRE )-Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: ACAD) today announced that it will participate at three upcoming investor conferences: TD Cowen's 46th Annual Health Care Conference Fireside Chat: Monday, March 2, 2026 at 11:10 a.m. Eastern Time in Boston, MA The Citizens Life Sciences Conference Fireside Chat: Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 1:05 p.m. Eastern Time in Miami Beach, FL Live webcasts will be accessible on the company's website, acadia.com, under the investors section...
Wolfe Research has initiated coverage of ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:ACAD) with an Outperform rating and a $33 price target. The firm highlighted conviction-driven opportunities across the neuroscience biotech company's therapeutic domains, noting that ACAD's main products, Daybue and Nuplazid, are reasonably priced relative to current share price. ACADIA reported fourth quarter revenues of $284 million and full-year 2025 revenues of $1.07 billion, representing 9% and 12% growth respectively. NUPLAZID generated $189 million in non-GAAP sales for the quarter, whilst DAYBUE reached $110 million, up 13% year-over-year. The company projects full-year 2026 revenue between $1.22 billion and $1.28 billion, with NUPLAZID sales expected at $760-790 million and DAYBUE at $460-490 million.