What is Auspex Pharmaceuticals?
Auspex Pharmaceuticals is a pioneering biopharmaceutical enterprise focused on the application of deuterium chemistry to optimize the safety and efficacy profiles of known molecules. By replacing hydrogen atoms with deuterium, the company creates novel therapeutic candidates with improved pharmacokinetic properties. Its primary asset, SD-809 (deutetrabenazine), is currently positioned to address significant unmet medical needs, including chorea associated with Huntington's disease, tardive dyskinesia, and Tourette syndrome. With a deep pipeline comprising over 60 molecules, Auspex leverages a sophisticated patent portfolio to maintain a competitive edge in the life sciences sector, supported by a clear regulatory strategy and a commitment to high-caliber clinical development.
How much funding has Auspex Pharmaceuticals raised?
Auspex Pharmaceuticals has raised a total of $221.1M across 12 funding rounds:
Private Equity
$13.8M
Series B
$13.8M
Series A
$28M
Debt
$3M
Debt
$2M
Series C
$12M
Debt
$3M
Debt
$1.5M
Series D
$25M
Multiple Rounds
$119M
Private Equity (2007): $13.8M, investors not publicly disclosed
Series B (2008): $13.8M led by CMEA Ventures, Costa Verde Capital, and Thomas , McNerney & Partners
Series A (2008): $28M supported by Venrock, Advanced Technology Ventures, ARCH Venture Partners, and OrbiMed Advisors
Debt (2009): $3M featuring Undisclosed
Debt (2010): $2M backed by Undisclosed
Series C (2010): $12M with participation from Thomas, McNerney & Partners
Debt (2011): $3M led by Undisclosed
Debt (2012): $1.5M, investors not publicly disclosed
Series D (2012): $25M featuring Thomas, McNerney & Partners and Panorama Capital
Series E (2014): $20M backed by Thomas McNerney & Partners, Deerfield Management Company, BioMed Ventures, and Panorama Capital
Debt (2014): $15M with participation from Oxford Finance
Stock Issuance/Offering (2014): $84M, investors not publicly disclosed
Key Investors in Auspex Pharmaceuticals
Thomas McNerney & Partners
A healthcare-focused venture firm managing approximately $600 million, specializing in supporting life science companies through all stages of development, from early-stage funding to product commercialization.
Deerfield Management Company
An investment firm dedicated to advancing healthcare innovation through a combination of flexible capital, deep market intelligence, and a collaborative approach to building sustainable medical solutions.
CMEA Ventures
A San Francisco-based venture capital firm with a strong focus on life sciences and high-technology sectors, prioritizing science-based companies with experienced leadership teams capable of industry transformation.
What's next for Auspex Pharmaceuticals?
Looking ahead, Auspex is focused on the commercialization phase of its lead assets. Following positive Phase 3 clinical trial results, the company is prioritizing the submission of New Drug Applications to the FDA, with an eye toward market entry. The strategic deployment of recent capital will likely be directed toward scaling manufacturing capabilities, expanding commercial infrastructure, and continuing the development of its broader pipeline, including deuterated versions of pirfenidone and levodopa. As the company moves toward regulatory approval, its ability to maintain its technological advantage while navigating the complexities of commercial launch will be the primary driver of long-term shareholder value.
See full Auspex Pharmaceuticals company page
