Helus Pharma (NASDAQ: HELP) (Cboe CA: HELP), a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on novel serotonergic agonists for mental health disorders, has appointed Michael Cola as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. The announcement comes as the company prepares for critical clinical milestones, including expected Phase 2 data for HLP004 in generalized anxiety disorder this quarter and Phase 3 topline data for HLP003 in major depressive disorder in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Cola brings extensive pharmaceutical leadership experience, having previously served as CEO of Aimmune Therapeutics and in senior roles at Shire. His appointment signals Helus Pharma's transition from early-stage research toward later-stage development, regulatory engagement, and commercial planning. The company is also expanding its global intellectual property portfolio as it advances its pipeline of proprietary novel serotonergic agonists (NSAs).
Helus Pharma's lead candidate, HLP003, has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder. The company is also developing HLP004 for generalized anxiety disorder, with Phase 2 data expected shortly. These programs address significant unmet needs in mental health, where current treatments often have limited efficacy or delayed onset of action.
The appointment of a seasoned CEO like Cola underscores Helus Pharma's commitment to navigating the regulatory pathway and building toward potential commercialization. Investors will be watching for the upcoming data readouts, which could validate the company's approach to treating depression and anxiety through neuroplasticity-promoting compounds.
For more information on Helus Pharma and its pipeline, visit the company's newsroom at https://ibn.fm/HELP or the full press release at https://ibn.fm/VugQZ.
