Ventrus’ anal fissure drug fails in trial, shares slump

(Reuters) – Ventrus Biosciences Inc said its lead experimental drug to treat anal fissures failed to reduce pain more than a placebo in a late-stage trial, sending its shares plunging 67 percent in premarket trading. Ventrus said on Wednesday that gastrointestinal disorders were the most common adverse events reported by the 434 patients in the study, which aimed to reduce anal pain associated with or following defecation. An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the anal canal characterized by severe pain associated with or after bowel movements. Ventrus acquired the North American rights to VEN 307, also known as Diltiazem Hydrochloride 2% Cream, for the treatment of anal fissures from S.L.A. Pharma AG.