Benzinga | Jul 19, 2021 08:16AM EDT

NRx Pharma Stock Surges As Its COVID-19 Candidate Shows Evidence To Prevent "Cytokine Storm"

* NRx Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:NRXP) identifies a statistically significant effect of Zyesami (aviptadil) in preventing the sharp rise in cytokines, commonly associated with mortality in patients with COVID-19.

* Data will be presented at the Disease Control and Prevention Summit on July 21 at 10:10 E.T.

* In the recently completed phase 2b/3 trial, patients treated with placebo experienced a statistically significant elevation in interleukin 6 (IL-6) cytokine levels, whereas those treated with Zyesami had a minimal increase in IL-6.

* Change in cytokine level was a prespecified endpoint of the study.

* The anti-cytokine effect of Zyesami was additionally associated with a significant decrease in 60-day mortality.

* NRx has submitted these findings to the FDA to supplement its pending application for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).

* Price Action: NRXP shares are up 91% at $16.27 during the premarket session on the last check Monday.

* Related content: Benzinga's Full FDA Calendar.