UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM
(Mark One)
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period
ended
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
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The number of shares outstanding
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CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
INDEX
i
PART I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
CorMedix Inc. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
September 30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Current assets | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | $ | ||||||
Restricted cash | ||||||||
Short-term investments | ||||||||
Trade receivables | ||||||||
Inventories | ||||||||
Prepaid research and development expenses | ||||||||
Security deposit | ||||||||
Other prepaid expenses and current assets | ||||||||
Total current assets | ||||||||
Property and equipment, net | ||||||||
Restricted cash, long-term | ||||||||
Operating lease right-of-use assets | ||||||||
TOTAL ASSETS | $ | $ | ||||||
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
Current liabilities | ||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | $ | ||||||
Accrued expenses | ||||||||
Operating lease liabilities, short-term | ||||||||
Total current liabilities | ||||||||
Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion | ||||||||
TOTAL LIABILITIES | ||||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | ||||||||
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
Preferred stock - $ | ||||||||
Common stock - $ | ||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive gain | ||||||||
Additional paid-in capital | ||||||||
Accumulated deficit | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | $ | $ |
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
1
CorMedix Inc. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(Unaudited)
For the Three Months Ended September 30, | For
the Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||
Revenue: | ||||||||||||||||
Net sales | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Cost of sales | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Gross profit | ||||||||||||||||
Operating Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||
Research and development | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Total Operating Expenses | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Loss From Operations | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Other Income (Expense): | ||||||||||||||||
Interest income | ||||||||||||||||
Foreign exchange transaction loss | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Interest expense, including amortization of debt discount | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Total Other Income (Expense) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||
Loss before income taxes | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Tax benefit | ||||||||||||||||
Net Loss | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss): | ||||||||||||||||
Unrealized gain (loss) from investments | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||
Foreign currency translation gain (loss) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||
Comprehensive Loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||||
Net Loss Per Common Share – Basic and Diluted | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||||
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding – Basic and Diluted |
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
2
CorMedix Inc. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Unaudited)
For the three months ended September 30, 2021
Common Stock | Preferred Stock – Series C-3, Series E and Series G | Accumulated Other Comprehensive | Additional Paid-in | Accumulated | Total Stockholders’ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Income (Loss) | Capital | Deficit | Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at June 30, 2021 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2021 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ |
For the nine months ended September 30, 2021
Common Stock | Preferred Stock –
Series C-3, |
Accumulated
| Additional Paid-in | Accumulated | Total Stockholders’ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Income (Loss) | Capital | Deficit | Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with ATM sale of common stock, net | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with warrants exercised, cash | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with warrants exercised, cashless | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with options exercised | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion of Series G preferred shares to common stock | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Conversion of Series C-3 preferred shares to common stock | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2021 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ |
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
3
CorMedix Inc. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES
IN
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Unaudited)
For the three months ended September 30, 2020
Common Stock | Preferred
Stock – Series C-3, Series E and Series G | Accumulated Other Comprehensive | Additional Paid-in | Accumulated | Total Stockholders’ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Income (Loss) | Capital | Deficit | Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at June 30, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with public offering, net | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with ATM sale of common stock, net | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of vested restricted stock | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ |
For the nine months ended September 30, 2020
Common Stock | Preferred Stock – Series C-3, Series E and Series G | Accumulated Other Comprehensive | Additional Paid-in | Accumulated | Total Stockholders’ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Income (Loss) | Capital | Deficit | Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2019 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with public offering, net | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with ATM sale of common stock, net | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock issued in connection with warrants exercised | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of vested restricted stock | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | - | - | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ |
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
4
CorMedix Inc. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||
2021 | 2020 | |||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net loss | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: | ||||||||
Stock-based compensation | ||||||||
Depreciation | ||||||||
Non-cash lease expense | ||||||||
Inventory reserve | ||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||
Decrease (Increase) in trade receivables | ( | ) | ||||||
Decrease in inventory | ||||||||
Decrease (Increase) in prepaid expenses and other current assets | ( | ) | ||||||
(Decrease) Increase in accounts payable | ( | ) | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in accrued expenses | ( | ) | ||||||
Decrease in deferred revenue | ( | ) | ||||||
Net cash used in operating activities | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Purchase of short-term investments | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
Maturity of short-term investments | ||||||||
Purchase of equipment | ( | ) | ( | ) | ||||
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | ( | ) | ||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Proceeds from the public offering, net | ||||||||
Proceeds from sale of common stock from at-the-market program, net | ||||||||
Proceeds from exercise of warrants | ||||||||
Proceeds from exercise of stock options | ||||||||
Net cash provided by financing activities | ||||||||
Foreign exchange effect on cash | ( | ) | ||||||
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | ||||||||
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH – BEGINNING OF PERIOD | ||||||||
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH – END OF PERIOD | $ | $ | ||||||
Cash paid for interest | $ | $ | ||||||
Supplemental Disclosure of Non-Cash Financing Activities: | ||||||||
Conversion of Series G preferred stock to common stock | $ | $ | ||||||
Conversion of Series C-3 preferred stock to common stock | $ | $ | ||||||
Unrealized gain (loss) from investments | $ | ( | ) | $ | ( | ) | ||
Deposit on equipment reclassified from other prepaid expenses and current assets to property and equipment, net | $ | $ | ||||||
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease liability | $ | $ | ||||||
Issuance of common stock for vested restricted stock units | $ | $ |
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
5
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1— Organization, Business and Basis of Presentation:
Organization and Business
CorMedix Inc. (“CorMedix” or the “Company”) is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing therapeutic products for the prevention and treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases. In 2013, the Company formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, CorMedix Europe GmbH and in May 2020, the Company formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, CorMedix Spain, S.L.U.
The Company’s primary focus is on the development
of its lead product candidate, DefenCath™, for potential commercialization in the United States (“U.S.”) and other
key markets.
In January 2015, the FDA designated DefenCath as a Qualified Infectious Disease Product (“QIDP”) for prevention of catheter-related blood stream infections (“CRBSIs”) in patients with end stage renal disease receiving hemodialysis through a central venous catheter. Catheter-related blood stream infections and clotting can be life-threatening. The QIDP designation provides five years of market exclusivity in addition to the five years granted for a New Chemical Entity (“NCE”) upon approval of a New Drug Application (“NDA”). In addition, in January 2015, the FDA granted Fast Track designation to DefenCath Catheter Lock Solution, a designation intended to facilitate development and expedite review of drugs that treat serious and life-threatening conditions so that the approved drug can reach the market expeditiously. The Fast Track designation of DefenCath provides the Company with the opportunity to meet with the FDA on a more frequent basis during the development process, and also ensures eligibility to request priority review of the marketing application.
In December 2015, the Company launched its Phase 3 Prospective, Multicenter, Double-blind, Randomized, Active Control Study to Demonstrate Safety & Effectiveness of DefenCath/Neutrolin in Preventing Catheter-related Bloodstream Infection in Subjects on Hemodialysis for End Stage Renal Disease (“LOCK-IT-100”), in patients with hemodialysis catheters in the U.S. The clinical trial was designed to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of DefenCath compared to the standard of care for CLS, Heparin, in preventing CRBSIs. The primary endpoint for the trial assessed the incidence of CRBSI and time to CRBSI for each study subject. Secondary endpoints were catheter patency, which was defined as required use of tissue plasminogen activating factor, or tPA, or removal of catheter due to dysfunction, and removal of catheter for any reason.
As previously agreed with the FDA, an interim efficacy analysis was performed when the first 28 potential CRBSI cases were identified in our LOCK-IT-100 study that occurred through early December 2017. Based on these first 28 cases, there was a highly statistically significant 72% reduction in CRBSI by DefenCath relative to the active control of heparin (p=0.0034). Because the pre-specified level of statistical significance was reached for the primary endpoint and efficacy had been demonstrated with no safety concerns, the LOCK-IT-100 study was terminated early. The study continued enrolling and treating subjects until study termination, and the final analysis was based on a total of 795 subjects. In a total of 41 cases, there was a 71% reduction in CRBSI by DefenCath relative to heparin, which was highly statistically significant (p=0.0006), with a good safety profile.
6
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
The FDA granted the Company’s request for a rolling submission and review of the NDA which is designed to expedite the approval process for products being developed to address an unmet medical need. Although the FDA usually requires two pivotal clinical trials to provide substantial evidence of safety and effectiveness for approval of an NDA, the FDA will in some cases accept one adequate and well-controlled trial, where it is a large multicenter trial with a broad range of subjects and investigation sites with procedures to include trial quality that has demonstrated a clinically meaningful and statistically very persuasive effect on prevention of a disease with potentially serious outcome.
In March 2020, the Company began the modular submission process for the NDA for DefenCath for the prevention of CRBSI in hemodialysis patients, and in August 2020, the FDA accepted for filing the DefenCath NDA. The FDA also granted the Company’s request for priority review, which provides for a six-month review period instead of the standard ten-month review period. As the Company announced in March 2021, the FDA informed in its Complete Response Letter (“CRL”) to the Company that it cannot approve the NDA for DefenCath in its present form. The FDA noted concerns at the third-party manufacturing facility after a review of records requested by the FDA and provided by the contract manufacturer (“CMO”). Additionally, the FDA is requiring a manual extraction study to demonstrate that the labeled volume can be consistently withdrawn from the vials despite an existing in-process control to demonstrate fill volume within specifications.
In April 2021, the Company and the CMO met with the FDA to discuss proposed resolutions for the deficiencies identified in the CRL to the Company and the Post-Application Action Letter received by the CMO from the FDA for the NDA for DefenCath. There was an agreed upon protocol for the manual extraction study identified in the CRL, which now has been successfully completed. Addressing the FDA’s concerns regarding the qualification of the filling operation necessitated adjustments in the process and generation of additional data on operating parameters for manufacture of DefenCath. The Company and the CMO determined that additional process qualification is needed with subsequent validation to address these issues. The FDA stated that the review timeline would be determined when the NDA resubmission is received and that it expected all corrections to facility deficiencies to be complete at the time of resubmission so that all corrective actions may be verified during an onsite evaluation of the manufacturing facility in the next review cycle, if the FDA determines it will do an onsite evaluation. The Company and the CMO continue to work closely to ensure that the identified deficiencies are resolved prior to resubmission of the DefenCath NDA, but delays have been encountered at the CMO that are unrelated to DefenCath manufacturing activities. The timeline for CorMedix and the CMO to address deficiencies at the facility that are required for resubmission of the DefenCath NDA is uncertain at this time.
Satisfactory resolution of these issues is required for approval of the DefenCath NDA. If an onsite inspection is required, the Company may encounter delays in obtaining FDA approval because the FDA is currently facing a backlog due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The FDA issued a guidance document on its plan to use voluntary remote interactive evaluations at facilities, including for a pre-approval inspection to assess a marketing application. The FDA will request the manufacturing facility to participate in a voluntary remote interactive evaluation, if the FDA believes it is appropriate. A manufacturing facility cannot request the remote interaction. The FDA expects the use of remote interactive evaluations should help the FDA operate within normal timeframes in spite of the Covid-19 pandemic.
7
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
The FDA did not request additional clinical data and did not identify any deficiencies related to the data submitted on the efficacy or safety of DefenCath from LOCK-IT-100 in the CRL. In draft labeling discussed with the FDA, the FDA added that the initial approval will be for the limited population of patients with kidney failure receiving chronic hemodialysis through a central venous catheter. This is consistent with our request for approval pursuant to the Limited Population Pathway for Antibacterial and Antifungal Drugs (“LPAD”). LPAD, passed as part of the 21st Century Cures Act, is a new program intended to expedite the development and approval of certain antibacterial and antifungal drugs to treat serious or life-threatening infections in limited populations of patients with unmet needs. LPAD provides for a streamlined clinical development program involving smaller, shorter, or fewer clinical trials and is intended to encourage the development of safe and effective products that address unmet medical needs of patients with serious bacterial and fungal infections. We believe that LPAD will provide additional flexibility for the FDA to approve DefenCath to reduce CRBSIs in the limited population of patients with kidney failure receiving hemodialysis through a central venous catheter.
In March 2020, the Company was granted a deferral
by the FDA under the Pediatric Research Equity Act (“PREA”), that requires sponsors to conduct pediatric studies for NDAs
for a new active ingredient, such as taurolidine in DefenCath, unless a waiver or deferral is obtained from the FDA. A deferral acknowledges
that a pediatric assessment is required but permits the applicant to submit the pediatric assessment after the submission of an NDA.
The Company has made a commitment to conduct the pediatric study after approval of the NDA for use in adult hemodialysis patients.
The Company intends to pursue additional indications for DefenCath use as a CLS in populations with an unmet medical need that also represent a significant market opportunity. For example, the Company intends to pursue marketing authorization in the U.S. for use as a CLS to reduce CRBSIs in oncology and total parenteral nutrition patients using a central venous catheter.
In addition to DefenCath, the Company is sponsoring a pre-clinical research collaboration for the use of taurolidine as a possible treatment for rare orphan pediatric tumors. In February 2018, the FDA granted orphan drug designation to taurolidine for the treatment of neuroblastoma in children. The Company may seek one or more strategic partners or other sources of capital to help develop and commercialize taurolidine for the treatment of neuroblastoma in children. The Company is also evaluating opportunities for the possible expansion of taurolidine as a platform compound for use in certain medical devices. Patent applications have been filed in several indications, including wound closure, surgical meshes, and wound management.
In the European Union (“EU”), Neutrolin is regulated as a Class 3 medical device. In July 2013, the Company received CE Mark approval for Neutrolin. In December 2013, the Company commercially launched Neutrolin in Germany for the prevention of CRBSI, and maintenance of catheter patency in hemodialysis patients using a tunneled, cuffed central venous catheter for vascular access. To date, Neutrolin is registered and may be sold in certain European Union and Middle Eastern countries for such treatment.
8
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
In September 2014, the TUV-SUD and The Medicines Evaluation Board of the Netherlands (“MEB”), granted a label expansion for Neutrolin to include use in oncology patients receiving chemotherapy, intravenous (“IV”) hydration and IV medications via CVC for the EU. In December 2014, the Company received approval from the Hessian District President in Germany to expand the label for these same expanded indications. The expansion also adds patients receiving medication and IV fluids via CVC in intensive or critical care units (cardiac care unit, surgical care unit, neonatal critical care unit, and urgent care centers). An indication for use in total parenteral nutrition was also approved.
In September 2019, the Company’s registration with the Saudi Arabia Food and Drug Administration, or the SFDA, expired. As a result, the Company cannot sell Neutrolin in Saudi Arabia. The Company intends to complete the documentation required to renew its registration with the SFDA, however, the Company cannot predict how long the renewal process will take. There is no assurance that the registration will be renewed by the SFDA.
The novel coronavirus has been declared a pandemic and has spread to multiple global regions. The outbreak and government measures taken in response have also had a significant impact, both direct and indirect, on businesses and commerce, as worker shortages have occurred; supply chains have been disrupted; facilities and production have been suspended; and demand for certain goods and services, such as medical services and supplies, has spiked, while demand for other goods and services, such as travel, has fallen. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, “shelter in place” orders and other public health guidance measures have been implemented across much of the United States, Europe and Asia, including in the locations of the Company’s offices, clinical trial sites, key vendors and partners. Such “shelter in place” orders were previously lifted, at least partially, in many locations. However, an increase in the spread of COVID-19 and variants, including the Delta variant, which may affect the spread or severity of one or more successive waves of the virus, has led, and may continue to lead, to the re-imposition by many nations and U.S. of quarantine requirements for travelers from other regions and may lead to the re-imposition of “shelter-in-place” or other similar orders. The Company’s program timelines may be negatively affected by COVID-19, which could materially and adversely affect its business, financial conditions and results of operations.
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions for Form 10-Q and Article 8 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements do not include all information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete annual financial statements. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary to fairly state the interim results. Interim operating results are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the full year ending December 31, 2021 or for any subsequent period. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and notes thereto of the Company which are included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 30, 2021. The accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020 has been derived from the audited financial statements included in such Form 10-K.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12 which removes certain exceptions to the general principles of the accounting for income taxes and also improves consistent application of and simplification of other areas when accounting for income taxes. The guidance was effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021. Early adoption was permitted. This adoption on January 1, 2021 did not have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.
9
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
Note 2— Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:
Liquidity and Uncertainties
The financial statements have been prepared in
conformity with GAAP which contemplate continuation of the Company as a going concern. To date, the Company’s commercial operations
have not generated sufficient revenues to enable profitability. As of September 30, 2021, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $
In June 2021, the Company received approximately
$
The Company’s continued operations will
depend on its ability to raise additional capital through various potential sources, such as equity and/or debt financings, strategic
relationships, potential strategic transactions or out-licensing of its products in order to commercially launch DefenCath upon NDA approval
and until profitability is achieved, if ever. Management can provide no assurances that such financing or strategic relationships will
be available on acceptable terms, or at all. As of September 30, 2021, the Company has $
The Company’s operations are subject to a number of other factors that can affect its operating results and financial condition. Such factors include, but are not limited to: the ability to obtain regulatory approval to market the Company’s products; ability to manufacture successfully; competition from products manufactured and sold or being developed by other companies; the price of, and demand for the Company products; the Company’s ability to negotiate favorable licensing or other manufacturing and marketing agreements for its products; the results of clinical testing and trial activities of the Company’s product candidates; and the Company’s ability to raise capital to support its operations.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Basis of Consolidation
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, CorMedix Europe GmbH and CorMedix Spain, S.L.U., its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
10
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
Financial Instruments
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments. The Company maintains its cash and cash equivalents in bank deposit and other interest-bearing accounts, the balances of which, at times, may exceed federally insured limits.
The following table is the reconciliation of the accounting standard that modifies certain aspects of the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments as shown on the Company’s consolidated statement of cash flows:
September
30, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | $ | ||||||
Restricted cash, short-term and long-term | ||||||||
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | $ |
The appropriate classification of marketable securities is determined at the time of purchase and reevaluated as of each balance sheet date. Investments in marketable debt classified as available-for-sale and equity securities are reported at fair value. Fair value is determined using quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities or quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Changes in fair value that are considered temporary are reported in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. Realized gains and losses, amortization of premiums and discounts and interest and dividends earned are included in other income (expense). For declines in the fair value of equity securities that are considered other-than-temporary, impairment losses are charged to other income (expense), net. The Company considers available evidence in evaluating potential impairments of its investments, including the duration and extent to which fair value is less than cost. There were no deemed permanent impairments at September 30, 2021 or December 31, 2020.
The Company’s marketable securities are highly liquid and consist of U.S. government agency securities, high-grade corporate obligations and commercial paper with original maturities of more than 90 days. As of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, all of the Company’s investments had contractual maturities of less than one year. As of September 30, 2021, no allowance for credit loss was recorded. The following table summarizes the amortized cost, unrealized gains and losses and the fair value at September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020:
September 30, 2021: | Amortized
Cost | Gross Unrealized Losses | Gross Unrealized Gains | Fair Value | ||||||||||||
Money Market Funds included in Cash Equivalents | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Corporate Securities | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
Commercial Paper | ||||||||||||||||
Subtotal | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
Total September 30, 2021 | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | | $ |
11
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
December 31, 2020: | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds included in Cash Equivalents | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ | ||||||||||
Corporate Securities | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
Commercial Paper | ||||||||||||||||
Subtotal | ( | ) | ||||||||||||||
Total December 31, 2020 | $ | $ | ( | ) | $ | $ |
Fair Value Measurements
The Company’s financial instruments recorded in the condensed consolidated balance sheets include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, investment securities, accounts payable and accrued expenses. The carrying value of certain financial instruments, primarily cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses approximate their estimated fair values based upon the short-term nature of their maturity dates.
The Company categorizes its financial instruments into a three-level fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). If the inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the category level is based on the lowest priority level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the instrument. Financial assets recorded at fair value on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets are categorized as follows:
● | Level 1 inputs—Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. |
● | Level 2 inputs— Significant other observable inputs (e.g., quoted prices for similar items in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar items in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable such as interest rate and yield curves, and market-corroborated inputs). |
● | Level 3 inputs—Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, which are supported by little or no market activity and are valued based on management’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. |
The following table provides the carrying value and fair value of the Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020:
September 30, 2021: | Carrying Value | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||||||||
Money Market Funds and Cash Equivalents | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Corporate Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Commercial Paper | ||||||||||||||||
Subtotal | $ | |||||||||||||||
Total September 30, 2021 | $ | $ | $ | $ |
12
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2020: | ||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds and Cash Equivalents | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Corporate Securities | ||||||||||||||||
Commercial Paper | ||||||||||||||||
Subtotal | ||||||||||||||||
Total December 31, 2020 | $ | $ | $ | $ |
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
The condensed consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. Dollars (“USD”), the reporting currency of the Company. For the financial statements of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries, whose functional currency is the EURO, foreign currency asset and liability amounts, are translated into USD at end-of-period exchange rates. Foreign currency income and expenses are translated at average exchange rates in effect during the period in which the income and expenses were recognized. Translation gains and losses are included in other comprehensive income (loss).
The Company has intercompany loans between the parent company based in New Jersey and its German subsidiary. The intercompany loans outstanding are not expected to be repaid in the foreseeable future and unrealized foreign exchange movements related to long-term intercompany loans are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
Foreign currency exchange transaction gain (loss) is the result of re-measuring transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity recording the transaction.
Restricted Cash
As of September 30, 2021 and
December 31, 2020, the Company has restricted cash in connection with the patent and utility model infringement proceedings against TauroPharm
(see Note 4). The Company was required by the District Courts of Mannheim to provide security deposit to cover legal fees in the
event TauroPharm is entitled to reimbursement of these costs. The Company furthermore had to provide a deposit for the first and second
instances, respectively, in connection with the unfair competition proceedings in Cologne. During the nine months ended September 30,
2021, approximately $
As of September 30, 2021, the Company had $
Prepaid Research and Development and Other Prepaid Expenses
Prepaid expenses consist of payments made in advance to vendors relating to service contracts for clinical trial development, manufacturing, preclinical development and insurance policies. These advanced payments are amortized to expense either as services are performed or over the relevant service period using the straight-line method.
13
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value on a first in, first out basis. Inventories consist of finished goods for the DefenCath/Neutrolin product.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment consist primarily of furnishings,
fixtures, leasehold improvements, manufacturing equipment, office and computer equipment and equipment in progress, all of which are recorded
at cost. Depreciation is provided for by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Leasehold
improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the remaining lease term or the life of the asset, whichever is shorter. Equipment
in progress includes equipment which is not ready for its intended use. Net property and equipment, as of September 30, 2021 and December
31, 2020 were $
Leases
The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. Operating leases are included in operating lease right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, current portion of operating lease liabilities, and operating lease liabilities, net of current portion, on the condensed consolidated balance sheet.
Operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at commencement date. As the Company’s leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of future payments. The Company’s lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. Lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
The Company has elected, as an accounting policy,
not to apply the recognition requirements in ASC 842 to short-term leases.
The Company has also elected, as a practical expedient, by underlying class of asset, not to separate lease components from non-lease components and, instead, account for them as a single component.
Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses consist of the following:
September
30, 2021 | December
31, 2020 | |||||||
Professional and consulting fees | $ | $ | ||||||
Accrued payroll and payroll taxes | ||||||||
Manufacturing development related | ||||||||
Other | ||||||||
Total | $ | $ |
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with ASC 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” ASC 606 prescribes a five-step model for recognizing revenue which includes (i) identifying contracts with customers; (ii) identifying performance obligations; (iii) determining the transaction price; (iv) allocating the transaction price; and (v) recognizing revenue.
The Company recognizes net sales upon shipment of product and upon meeting the five-step model prescribed by ASC 606 outlined above.
14
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
Loss Per Common Share
Basic loss per common share excludes any potential dilution and is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per common share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity. However, since their effect is anti-dilutive, the Company has excluded potentially dilutive shares. The following potentially dilutive shares have been excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share as their effect would be anti-dilutive.
Nine Months
Ended September 30, | ||||||||
2021 | 2020 | |||||||
(Number of Shares of Common Stock Issuable) | ||||||||
Series C non-voting preferred stock | ||||||||
Series E non-voting preferred stock | ||||||||
Series G non-voting preferred stock | ||||||||
Restricted stock units | - | |||||||
Shares issuable for payment of deferred board compensation | ||||||||
Shares underlying outstanding warrants | ||||||||
Shares underlying outstanding stock options | ||||||||
Total potentially dilutive shares |
Stock-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation cost for stock options granted to employees is measured at grant date using the Black-Scholes stock option pricing model in accordance with ASC No. 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation”, based on the estimated fair value of the award for options with service or performance-based conditions and is recognized as expense over the requisite service period on a straight-line basis. For stock options with performance-based vesting provisions, share-based compensation cost is recorded when the achievement of the performance condition is probable.
Research and Development
Research and development costs are charged to expense as incurred. Research and development include fees associated with operational consultants, contract clinical research organizations, contract manufacturing organizations, clinical site fees, contract laboratory research organizations, contract central testing laboratories, licensing activities, and allocated executive, human resources, facilities expenses and costs related to the manufacturing of the product that could potentially be available to support the commercial launch prior to marketing approval. The Company accrues for costs incurred as the services are being provided by monitoring the status of the activities and the invoices received from its external service providers. Costs related to the acquisition of technology rights and patents for which development work is still in process are charged to operations as incurred and considered a component of research and development expense.
15
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
Note 3 — Stockholders’ Equity:
Common Stock
In November 2020,
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021,
the Company issued an aggregate of
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021
and 2020, the Company issued an aggregate of
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021,
the Company issued an aggregate of
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021,
there were no restricted stock units issued by the Company and for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Company issued an aggregate
of
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021,
the Company issued an aggregate of
16
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
Preferred Stock
The Company is authorized to issue up to
As of September 30, 2021 | As of December 31, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred Shares Outstanding | Liquidation Preference (Per Share) | Total Liquidation Preference | Preferred Shares Outstanding | Liquidation Preference (Per Share) | Total Liquidation Preference | |||||||||||||||||||
Series C-3 | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||
Series E | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||
Series G | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | $ |
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, 50,000 Series C-3 preferred shares were converted into 100,000 shares of the Company’s common stock by an unrelated party and 10,001 Series G preferred shares were converted into 556,069 shares of the Company’s common stock by a related party.
Stock Options
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021,
the Company granted ten-year qualified and non-qualified stock options covering an aggregate of
During the three and nine months
ended September 30, 2021, total compensation expense for stock options issued to employees, directors, officers and consultants was $
As of September 30, 2021, there was approximately
$
As of September 30, 2021, there were
17
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
The fair value of each stock
option award estimated on the grant date is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, except for an aggregate of
Expected term | ||||
Volatility | % | |||
Dividend yield | % | |||
Risk-free interest rate | % | |||
Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during the period | $ |
A summary of the assumptions used in the Monte Carlo option pricing model are as follows:
Expected term | ||||
Volatility | % | |||
Dividend yield | % | |||
Risk-free interest rate | % |
The Company estimated the expected term of the
stock options granted based on anticipated exercises in future periods as calculated by the Company’s historical option exercise
activities. The expected term of the stock options granted to consultants is based upon the full term of the respective option agreements.
The expected stock price volatility for the Company’s stock options is calculated based on the historical volatility since the
initial public offering of the Company’s common stock in March 2010. The expected dividend yield of
Restricted Stock Units
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, the Company did not grant any restricted stock units (“RSUs”), no compensation expense was recognized and there are no outstanding RSUs at September 30, 2021.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2020,
the Company issued an aggregate of
Warrants
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021
and 2020, the Company issued an aggregate of
During the nine months ended September 30, 2021,
the Company issued an aggregate of
As
of September 30, 2021, there were
18
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
Note 4 — Commitments and Contingencies:
Contingency Matters
On or around July 22, 2021, a purported stockholder of the Company filed a putative class action complaint in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, naming as defendants the Company, Khoso Baluch, Matthew David and Phoebe Mounts. The complaint alleges violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, based on alleged misstatements and omissions in connection with the NDA submitted to the FDA for DefenCath, and the subsequent notification by the FDA that the NDA could not be approved in its present form. The complaint purports to assert claims on behalf of persons that purchased or otherwise acquired shares of the Company securities between July 8, 2020 and May 13, 2021. On or around September 13, 2021, another purported stockholder of the Company filed a substantially similar complaint in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, naming as defendants the Company, Khoso Baluch, Matthew David and Phoebe Mounts and purporting to assert claims on behalf of persons that purchased or otherwise acquired shares of the Company securities between October 16, 2020 and May 13, 2021. On October 13, 2021, the Court consolidated the actions into In re CorMedix Inc. Securities Litigation, Case No. 2:21-cv014020-JXN-CLW and appointed lead counsel and lead plaintiff. On October 15, 2021, the Court entered a stipulation and order outlining that the lead plaintiff shall file an amended complaint within 60 days; the defendants shall file a motion to dismiss within 45 days thereafter; the lead plaintiff shall file an opposition within 45 days thereafter; and the defendants shall file a reply within 30 days thereafter. The Company intends to vigorously contest such claims.
On or about October 13, 2021, a purported shareholder, derivatively and on behalf of the Company, filed a shareholder derivative complaint in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, against Khoso Baluch, Janet Dillione, Alan W. Dunton, Myron Kaplan, Steven Lefkowitz, Paulo F. Costa, Greg Duncan, Matthew David, and Phoebe Mounts along with the Company as Nominal Defendant. The complaint alleges breaches of fiduciary duties, abuse of control, and waste of corporate assets against the defendants and a claim for contribution for purported violations of Sections 10(b) and 21D of the Exchange Act against certain defendants. The case is at an early stage.
On September 9, 2014, the Company filed in the District Court of Mannheim, Germany, a patent infringement action against TauroPharm GmbH and Tauro-Implant GmbH as well as their respective CEOs (the “Defendants”) claiming infringement of the Company’s European Patent EP 1 814 562 B1, which was granted by the European Patent Office (the “EPO”) on January 8, 2014 (the “Prosl European Patent”). The Prosl European Patent covers the formulation of taurolidine and citrate with low dose heparin in a catheter lock solution for maintaining patency and preventing infection in hemodialysis catheters. In this action, the Company claims that the Defendants infringe on the Prosl European Patent by manufacturing and distributing catheter locking solutions to the extent they are covered by the claims of the Prosl European Patent. The Company believes that its patent is sound and is seeking injunctive relief and raising claims for information, rendering of accounts, calling back, destruction and damages. Separately, TauroPharm has filed an opposition with the EPO against the Prosl European Patent alleging that it lacks novelty and inventive step. The Company cannot predict the ultimate outcome of either of these related matters. At present, the EPO has revoked the Prosl European Patent as invalid, and the Company has filed an appeal, which is currently pending.
In the same complaint against the same Defendants, the Company also alleged an infringement (requesting the same remedies) of ND Partners’ utility model DE 20 2005 022 124 U1 (the “Utility Model”), which the Company believes is fundamentally identical to the Prosl European Patent in its main aspects and claims. The Court separated the two proceedings and the Prosl European Patent and the Utility Model claims were tried separately. TauroPharm has filed a cancellation action against the Utility Model before the German Patent and Trademark Office (the “German PTO”) based on the similar arguments as those in the opposition against the Prosl European Patent.
The Court issued its decisions on May 8, 2015, staying both proceedings. In its decisions, the Court found that the commercialization by TauroPharm in Germany of its TauroLock catheter lock solutions Hep100 and Hep500 infringes both the Prosl European Patent and the Utility Model and further that there is no prior use right that would allow TauroPharm to continue to make, use or sell its product in Germany. However, the Court declined to issue an injunction in favor of the Company that would preclude the continued commercialization by TauroPharm based upon its finding that there is a sufficient likelihood that the EPO, in the case of the Prosl European Patent, or the German PTO, in the case of the Utility Model, may find that such patent or utility model is invalid. Specifically, the Court noted the possible publication of certain instructions for product use that may be deemed to constitute prior art. As such, the District Court determined that it will defer any consideration of the request by the Company for injunctive and other relief until such time as the EPO or the German PTO made a final decision on the underlying validity of the Prosl European Patent and the Utility Model.
19
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
The opposition proceeding against the Prosl European Patent before the EPO is ongoing. The EPO held a hearing in the opposition proceeding on November 25, 2015. However, the EPO did not issue a decision at the end of the hearing but adjourned the matter due to the fact that the panel was of the view that Claus Herdeis, one of the managing directors of TauroPharm, had to be heard as a witness in a further hearing in order to close some gaps in the documentation presented by TauroPharm as regards the publication of the prior art.
The German PTO held a hearing in the validity
proceedings relating to the Utility Model on June 29, 2016, at which the panel affirmed its preliminary finding that the Utility Model
was invalid based upon prior publication of a reference to the benefits that may be associated with adding heparin to a taurolidine based
solution. The Company filed an appeal against the ruling on September 7, 2016. An oral hearing was held on September 17, 2019 in which
the German Federal Patent Court affirmed the first instance decision that the Utility Model was invalid. The decision has only a declaratory
effect, as the Utility Model had expired in November 2015. On April 28, 2020, the Company filed a withdrawal of the complaint on the
German utility model, thereby waiving its claims on these proceedings. During the year ended December 31, 2020, costs in connection with
the utility model infringement proceedings of approximately $
On November 22, 2017, the EPO in Munich, Germany held a further oral hearing in this matter. At the hearing, the panel held that the Prosl European Patent would be invalidated because it did not meet the requirements of novelty based on a technical aspect of the European intellectual property law. The Company disagrees with this decision and has appealed the decision. The Company continues to believe that the Prosl European Patent is indeed novel and that its validity should be maintained. There can be no assurance that the Company will prevail in this matter.
On January 16, 2015, the Company filed a complaint against TauroPharm GmbH and its managing directors in the District Court of Cologne, Germany. In the complaint, the Company alleged violation of the German Unfair Competition Act by TauroPharm and that TauroPharm is improperly and unfairly using its proprietary information relating to the composition and manufacture of Neutrolin, in the manufacture and sale of TauroPharm’s products TauroLockTM, TauroLock-HEP100 and TauroLock-HEP500. The Company sought a cease and desist order against TauroPharm from continuing to manufacture and sell any product containing taurolidine (the active pharmaceutical ingredient (“API”) of Neutrolin) and citric acid in addition to possible other components, damages for any sales in the past and the removal of all such products from the market. Hearings in this matter were held in the District Court of Cologne, Germany on November 19, 2015, on November 15, 2016 and on November 20, 2018. A decision was rendered by the court on December 11, 2018, dismissing the complaint in its entirety. The Company therefore appealed in January 2019. An oral hearing was held on September 6, 2019. In view of new arguments brought forward in this hearing, the Court issued an evidentiary order on September 27, 2019 ordering an expert opinion. The expert opinion was not in the Company’s favor. In a supplementary expert opinion submitted after the Company had brought forward arguments against the first expert opinion, the expert confirmed his view. In an oral hearing held on June 18, 2021, the Court only heard from the expert, and the Court, as well as both parties, asked further questions to the expert around his expert opinion. At the end of the hearing and internal deliberation among the panel of judges, the Court indicated that it would dismiss the complaint of the Company, if the Company did not withdraw the appeal. As there were no advantages to further pursuing the matter in view of the Court’s statements, the Company withdrew the appeal and the proceedings are therefore now closed. TauroPharm requested an increase of the value in dispute determined by the Court in order to receive a higher reimbursement of costs (as this is based on the value in dispute under German law) but the request was rejected in view of arguments brought forward against it by legal counsel of the Company. The cost proceedings are ongoing and the amount of costs the Company will have to reimburse is still to be determined by the Court.
20
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
In connection with the aforementioned patent and
utility model infringement and unfair competition proceedings against TauroPharm, the Company was required by the District Courts of
Mannheim and Cologne to provide security deposits to cover legal fees in the event TauroPharm is entitled to reimbursement of these costs. As
of September 30, 2021, the aggregate deposit was approximately $
Commitments
In-Licensing
In 2008, the Company entered into a License and
Assignment Agreement (the “NDP License Agreement”) with ND Partners, LLP (“NDP”). Pursuant to the NDP License
Agreement, NDP granted the Company exclusive, worldwide licenses for certain antimicrobial catheter lock solutions, processes for treating
and inhibiting infections, a biocidal lock system and a taurolidine delivery apparatus, and the corresponding United States and foreign
patents and applications (the “NDP Technology”). The Company acquired such licenses and patents through its assignment and
assumption of NDP’s rights under certain separate license agreements by and between NDP and Dr. Hans-Dietrich Polaschegg, Dr. Klaus
Sodemann and Dr. Johannes Reinmueller. As consideration in part for the rights to the NDP Technology, the Company paid NDP an initial
licensing fee of $
The Company is required to make payments to NDP
upon the achievement of certain regulatory and sales-based milestones. Certain of the milestone payments are to be made in the form of
shares of common stock currently held in escrow for NDP, and other milestone payments are to be paid in cash. The maximum aggregate number
of shares issuable upon achievement of milestones is
The NDP License Agreement may be terminated by the Company on a country-by-country basis upon 60 days prior written notice. If the NDP License Agreement is terminated by either party, the Company’s rights to the NDP Technology will revert back to NDP.
Note 5 — Leases:
The Company entered into an operating lease for
office space in Germany that began in July 2017. The rental agreement has a three-month term which automatically renews and includes
a monthly cost of
21
CORMEDIX INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
Operating lease expense in the Company’s
condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2021
was approximately $
At September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the
Company has a total operating lease liability of $
For the three and nine months
ended September 30, 2021, cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities in operating cash flows from operating
leases was $
The weighted average remaining lease term as of September 30, 2021 and 2020 were 6.0 and 7.0 years, respectively, and the weighted average discount rate for operating leases was 9% and 9% at September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
As of September 30, 2021, maturities of lease liabilities were as follows:
2021(excluding the nine months ended September 30,2021) | $ | |||
2022 | ||||
2023 | ||||
2024 | ||||
2025 | ||||
2026 and thereafter | ||||
Total future minimum lease payments | ||||
Less imputed interest | ( | ) | ||
Total | $ |
Note 6 — Concentrations:
At September 30, 2021, there were no net accounts
receivable that exceeded
Note 7 — Subsequent Event:
On October 1, 2021, the Company and Khoso Baluch came to a mutual agreement pursuant to which Mr. Baluch retired from his position as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, effective October 4, 2021. Mr. Baluch also resigned from the Company’s Board of Directors. In connection with his separation from service, the Company and Mr. Baluch entered into a separation agreement and release dated as of October 1, 2021.
On October 4, 2021, the Company and John L. Armstrong, Jr. came to a mutual agreement pursuant to which Mr. Armstrong retired from his position as the Company’s Executive Vice President, Technical Operations, effective October 4, 2021. In connection with his separation from service, the Company and Mr. Armstrong entered into a separation agreement and release dated as of October 4, 2021.
On October 26, 2021, the Company and Matthew David, M.D., the Company’s current Chief Financial Officer, entered into a letter agreement modifying certain terms of his employment agreement with the Company, dated May 11, 2020, and providing other compensation, including increased salary and target annual bonus and 125,000 stock options, as a result of Dr. David serving as interim Chief Executive Officer of the Company.
On November 1, 2021, the Company granted options
to purchase
22
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, on March 30, 2021.
Forward Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains “forward-looking statements” that involve risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove incorrect, could cause our results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, referred to herein as the Exchange Act. Forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of words such as, but not limited to, “anticipate,” “believe,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “plan,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions or variations intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of our management based on information currently available to management. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results and the timing of certain events to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those identified below and those discussed in the section titled “Risk Factors” included in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, as well as any updates thereto in subsequent filings, as filed with the SEC and which are incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements.
Overview
CorMedix Inc. and our wholly owned German subsidiaries, CorMedix Europe GmbH and CorMedix Spain, S.L.U., (collectively referred to herein as “we,” “us,” “our” and the “Company”), is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing therapeutic products for the prevention and treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases.
Our primary focus is on the development of our lead product candidate, DefenCath™, for potential commercialization in the United States, or U.S., and other key markets as a catheter lock solution, or CLS. We have in-licensed the worldwide rights to develop and commercialize DefenCath and Neutrolin®. The name DefenCath is the U.S. proprietary name conditionally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, while the name Neutrolin® is currently used in the European Union, or EU, and other territories where we received CE-Mark approval for the commercial distribution of Neutrolin as a CLS regulated as a medical device. DefenCath/Neutrolin is a novel anti-infective solution (a formulation of taurolidine 13.5 mg/ml and heparin 1000 USP Units/ml) intended for the reduction and prevention of catheter-related infections and thrombosis in patients requiring central venous catheters in clinical settings such as hemodialysis, total parenteral nutrition, and oncology. Infection and thrombosis represent key complications among hemodialysis, total parenteral nutrition and cancer patients with central venous catheters. These complications can lead to treatment delays and increased costs to the healthcare system when they occur due to hospitalizations, need for intravenous, or IV antibiotic treatment, long-term anticoagulation therapy, removal/replacement of the central venous catheter, related treatment costs and increased mortality. We believe DefenCath addresses a significant unmet medical need and a potential large market opportunity.
In January 2015, the FDA designated DefenCath as a Qualified Infectious Disease Product, or QIDP, for prevention of catheter-related blood stream infections in patients with end stage renal disease receiving hemodialysis through a central venous catheter. Catheter-related blood stream infections, or CRBSIs, and clotting can be life-threatening. The QIDP designation provides five years of market exclusivity in addition to the five years granted for a New Chemical Entity, or NCE, upon approval of a New Drug Application, or NDA. In addition, in January 2015, the FDA granted Fast Track designation to DefenCath Catheter Lock Solution, a designation intended to facilitate development and expedite review of drugs that treat serious and life-threatening conditions so that the approved drug can reach the market expeditiously. The Fast Track designation of DefenCath provides us with the opportunity to meet with the FDA on a more frequent basis during the development process, and also ensures eligibility to request priority review of the marketing application.
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In December 2015, we launched our Phase 3 Prospective, Multicenter, Double-blind, Randomized, Active Control Study to Demonstrate Safety & Effectiveness of DefenCath/Neutrolin in Preventing Catheter-related Bloodstream Infection in Subjects on Hemodialysis for End Stage Renal Disease, or LOCK-IT-100, in patients with hemodialysis catheters in the U.S. The clinical trial was designed to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of DefenCath compared to the standard of care for CLS, Heparin, in preventing CRBSIs. The primary endpoint for the trial assessed the incidence of CRBSI and time to CRBSI for each study subject. Secondary endpoints were catheter patency, which was defined as required use of tPA, or removal of catheter due to dysfunction, and removal of catheter for any reason.
As previously agreed with the FDA, an interim efficacy analysis was performed when the first 28 potential CRBSI cases were identified in our LOCK-IT-100 study that occurred through early December 2017. Based on these first 28 cases, there was a highly statistically significant 72% reduction in CRBSI by DefenCath relative to the active control of heparin (p=0.0034). Because the pre-specified level of statistical significance was reached for the primary endpoint and efficacy had been demonstrated with no safety concerns, the LOCK-IT-100 study was terminated early. The study continued enrolling and treating subjects until study termination, and the final analysis was based on a total of 795 subjects. In a total of 41 cases, there was a 71% reduction in CRBSI by DefenCath relative to heparin, which was highly statistically significant (p=0.0006), with a good safety profile.
The FDA granted our request for a rolling submission and review of the NDA, which is designed to expedite the approval process for products being developed to address an unmet medical need. Although the FDA usually requires two pivotal clinical trials to provide substantial evidence of safety and effectiveness for approval of an NDA, the FDA will in some cases accept one adequate and well-controlled trial, where it is a large multicenter trial with a broad range of subjects and study sites that has demonstrated a clinically meaningful and statistically very persuasive effect on a disease with potentially serious outcome.
In March 2020, we began the modular submission process for the NDA for DefenCath for the prevention of CRBSI in hemodialysis patients, and in August 2020, the FDA accepted for filing the DefenCath NDA. The FDA also granted our request for priority review, which provides for a six-month review period instead of the standard ten-month review period. As we announced in March 2021, the FDA informed in its Complete Response Letter (“CRL”) to us that it cannot approve the NDA for DefenCath in its present form. The FDA noted concerns at the third-party manufacturing facility after a review of records requested by the FDA and provided by the contract manufacturer (“CMO”). Additionally, the FDA is requiring a manual extraction study to demonstrate that the labeled volume can be consistently withdrawn from the vials despite an existing in-process control to demonstrate fill volume within specifications.
In April 2021, we and the CMO met with the FDA to discuss proposed resolutions for the deficiencies identified in the CRL to us and the Post-Application Action Letter received by the CMO from the FDA for the NDA for DefenCath. There was an agreed upon protocol for the manual extraction study identified in the CRL, which now has been successfully completed. Addressing the FDA’s concerns regarding the qualification of the filling operation necessitated adjustments in the process and generation of additional data on operating parameters for manufacture of DefenCath. We and the CMO determined that additional process qualification is needed with subsequent validation to address these issues. The FDA stated that the review timeline would be determined when the NDA resubmission is received and that it expected all corrections to facility deficiencies to be complete at the time of resubmission so that all corrective actions may be verified during an onsite evaluation of the manufacturing facility in the next review cycle, if the FDA determines it will do an onsite evaluation. We and the CMO continue to work closely to ensure that the identified deficiencies are resolved prior to resubmission of the DefenCath NDA, but delays have been encountered at the CMO that are unrelated to DefenCath manufacturing activities and the timeline for CorMedix and the CMO to address deficiencies at the facility that are required for resubmission of the DefenCath NDA is uncertain at this time.
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Satisfactory resolution of these issues is required for approval of the DefenCath NDA. If an onsite inspection is required, we may encounter delays in obtaining FDA approval because the FDA is currently facing a backlog due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The FDA issued a guidance document on its plan to use voluntary remote interactive evaluations at facilities, including for a pre-approval inspection to assess a marketing application. The FDA will request the manufacturing facility to participate in a voluntary remote interactive evaluation, if the FDA believes it is appropriate. A manufacturing facility cannot request the remote interaction. The FDA expects the use of remote interactive evaluations should help the FDA operate within normal timeframes in spite of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The FDA did not request additional clinical data and did not identify any deficiencies related to the data submitted on the efficacy or safety of DefenCath from LOCK-IT-100 in the CRL. In draft labeling discussed with the FDA, the FDA added that the initial approval will be for the limited population of patients with kidney failure receiving chronic hemodialysis through a central venous catheter. This is consistent with our request for approval pursuant to the Limited Population Pathway for Antibacterial and Antifungal Drugs, or LPAD. LPAD, passed as part of the 21st Century Cures Act, is a new program intended to expedite the development and approval of certain antibacterial and antifungal drugs to treat serious or life-threatening infections in limited populations of patients with unmet needs. LPAD provides for a streamlined clinical development program involving smaller, shorter, or fewer clinical trials and is intended to encourage the development of safe and effective products that address unmet medical needs of patients with serious bacterial and fungal infections. We believe that LPAD will provide additional flexibility for the FDA to approve DefenCath to prevent CRBSIs in the limited population of patients with kidney failure receiving hemodialysis through a central venous catheter.
We intend to pursue additional indications for DefenCath use as a CLS in populations with an unmet medical need that also represent a significant market opportunity. For example, we intend to pursue marketing authorization in the U.S. for use as a CLS to reduce CRBSIs in oncology and total parenteral nutrition patients using a central venous catheter.
In addition to DefenCath, we are sponsoring a pre-clinical research collaboration for the use of taurolidine as a possible treatment for rare orphan pediatric tumors. In February 2018, the FDA granted orphan drug designation to taurolidine for the treatment of neuroblastoma in children. We may seek one or more strategic partners or other sources of capital to help us develop and commercialize taurolidine for the treatment of neuroblastoma in children. We are also evaluating opportunities for the possible expansion of taurolidine as a platform compound for use in certain medical devices. Patent applications have been filed in several indications, including wound closure, surgical meshes, and wound management. Based on initial feasibility work, we are advancing pre-clinical studies for taurolidine-infused surgical meshes, suture materials and hydrogels. We will seek to establish development/commercial partnerships as these programs advance.
The FDA regards taurolidine as a new chemical entity and therefore an unapproved new drug. Consequently, there is no appropriate predicate medical device currently marketed in the U.S. on which a 510(k) approval process could be based. As a result, we will be required to submit a premarket approval application, or PMA, for marketing authorization for any medical device indications that we may pursue. In the event that an NDA for DefenCath is approved by the FDA, the regulatory pathway for these medical device product candidates may be revisited with the FDA. Although there may be no appropriate predicate, de novo Class II designation can be proposed, based on a risk assessment and a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness.
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In the European Union, or EU, Neutrolin is regulated as a Class 3 medical device. In July 2013, we received CE Mark approval for Neutrolin. In December 2013, we commercially launched Neutrolin in Germany for the prevention of CRBSI, and maintenance of catheter patency in hemodialysis patients using a tunneled, cuffed central venous catheter for vascular access. To date, Neutrolin is registered and may be sold in certain European Union and Middle Eastern countries for such treatment.
In September 2014, the TUV-SUD and The Medicines Evaluation Board of the Netherlands, or MEB, granted a label expansion for Neutrolin to include use in oncology patients receiving chemotherapy, intravenous, or IV, hydration and IV medications via CVC for the EU. In December 2014, we received approval from the Hessian District President in Germany to expand the label for these same expanded indications. The expansion also adds patients receiving medication and IV fluids via CVC in intensive or critical care units (cardiac care unit, surgical care unit, neonatal critical care unit, and urgent care centers). An indication for use in total parenteral nutrition was also approved.
In September 2019, our registration with the Saudi Arabia Food and Drug Administration, or the SFDA, expired. As a result, we cannot sell Neutrolin in Saudi Arabia. We intend to complete the documentation required to renew our registration with the SFDA, however, we cannot predict how long the renewal process will take. There is no assurance that the registration will be renewed by the SFDA.
In June 2021, we received approximately $1.3 million, net of expenses, from the sale of our unused New Jersey net operating losses, or NOL, eligible for sale under the State of New Jersey’s Economic Development Authority’s New Jersey Technology Business Tax Certificate Transfer program, or NJEDA Program. The NJEDA Program allowed us to sell approximately $1.3 million of our total $1.3 million in available NOL tax benefits for the state fiscal year 2020.
The novel coronavirus has been declared a pandemic and has spread to multiple global regions. The outbreak and government measures taken in response have also had a significant impact, both direct and indirect, on businesses and commerce, as worker shortages have occurred; supply chains have been disrupted; facilities and production have been suspended; and demand for certain goods and services, such as medical services and supplies, has spiked, while demand for other goods and services, such as travel, has fallen. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, “shelter in place” orders and other public health guidance measures have been implemented across much of the United States, Europe and Asia, including in the locations of our offices, clinical trial sites, key vendors and partners. Such “shelter in place” orders were previously lifted, at least partially, in many locations. However, an increase in the spread of COVID-19 and variants, including the Delta variant, which may affect the spread or severity of one or more successive waves of the virus, has led, and may continue to lead, to the re-imposition by many nations and U.S. of quarantine requirements for travelers from other regions and may lead to the re-imposition of “shelter-in-place” or other similar orders. Our program timelines may be negatively affected by COVID-19, which could materially and adversely affect its business, financial conditions and results of operations.
Since our inception, our operations have been primarily limited to conducting clinical trials and establishing manufacturing for our product candidates, licensing product candidates, business and financial planning, research and development, seeking regulatory approval for our products, initial commercialization activities for DefenCath in the U.S. and Neutrolin in the EU and other foreign markets, and maintaining and improving our patent portfolio. We have funded our operations primarily through debt and equity financings. We have generated significant losses to date, and we expect to use substantial amounts of cash for our operations as we prepare our pre-launch commercial activities for DefenCath for the U.S. market and commercialize Neutrolin in the EU and other foreign markets, pursue business development activities, and incur additional legal costs to defend our intellectual property. As of September 30, 2021, we had an accumulated deficit of approximately $237.9 million. We are unable to predict the extent of any future losses or when we will become profitable, if ever.
Financial Operations Overview
Revenue
We have not generated substantial revenue since our inception. Through September 30, 2021, we have funded our operations primarily through debt and equity financings.
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Research and Development Expense
Research and development, or R&D, expense consists of: (i) internal costs associated with our development activities; (ii) payments we make to third party contract research organizations, or CRO, contract manufacturers, investigative sites, and consultants; (iii) technology and intellectual property license costs; (iv) manufacturing development costs; (v) personnel related expenses, including salaries, stock–based compensation expense, benefits, travel and related costs for the personnel involved in drug development; (vi) activities relating to regulatory filings and the advancement of our product candidates through preclinical studies and clinical trials; (vii) facilities and other allocated expenses, which include direct and allocated expenses for rent, facility maintenance, as well as laboratory and other supplies; and (viii) costs related to the manufacturing of the product that could potentially be available to support the commercial launch prior to marketing approval. All R&D is expensed as incurred.
Conducting a significant amount of development is central to our business model. Product candidates in later-stage clinical development generally have higher development costs than those in earlier stages of development, primarily due to the significantly increased size and duration of the clinical trials. We expect to incur significant R&D expenses for the foreseeable future in order to complete development of Neutrolin in the U.S., including the close out of our LOCK-IT-100 clinical trial and the ongoing filing of an NDA for Neutrolin.
The process of conducting pre-clinical studies and clinical trials necessary to obtain regulatory approval is costly and time consuming. The probability of success for each product candidate and clinical trial may be affected by a variety of factors, including, among others, the quality of the product candidate’s early clinical data, clinical trial enrollment, duration, conduct and results, investment in the program, competition, manufacturing capabilities and commercial viability of the product candidate. As a result of the uncertainties associated with clinical trials in specific, and the risks inherent in the development process in general, we are unable to determine the duration and completion costs of current or future clinical stages of our product candidates or when, or to what extent, we will generate revenues from the commercialization and sale of any of our product candidates that may be approved.
Development timelines, probability of success and development costs vary widely. We are currently focused on securing the marketing approval for DefenCath in the U.S. as well as on continuing sales in foreign markets where Neutrolin is approved. In December 2015, we signed an agreement with a clinical research organization, or CRO, to help us conduct our LOCK-IT-100 Phase 3 clinical trial in hemodialysis patients with central venous catheters to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of DefenCath in preventing catheter-related bloodstream infections and blood clotting in subjects receiving hemodialysis therapy as treatment for end stage renal disease. Our LOCK-IT-100 study was completed and all costs related to the agreement with the CRO have been paid.
We were granted a deferral by the FDA under the Pediatric Research Equity Act (“PREA”), that requires sponsors to conduct pediatric studies for NDAs for a new active ingredient, such as taurolidine in DefenCath, unless a waiver or deferral is obtained from the FDA. A deferral acknowledges that a pediatric assessment is required but permits the applicant to submit the pediatric assessment after the submission of an NDA. We have made a commitment to conduct the pediatric study after approval of the NDA for use in adult hemodialysis patients. Pediatric studies for an approved product conducted under PREA may qualify for pediatric exclusivity, which if granted would provide an additional six months of marketing exclusivity. DefenCath would then have the potential to receive a total marketing exclusivity period of 10.5 years, including exclusivity pursuant to NCE and QIDP.
We are pursuing additional opportunities to generate value from taurolidine, an active component of DefenCath. Based on initial feasibility work, we have completed an initial round of pre-clinical studies for taurolidine-infused surgical meshes, suture materials, and hydrogels, which require a PMA regulatory pathway for approval. We are also involved in a pre-clinical research collaboration for the use of taurolidine as a possible treatment for rare orphan pediatric tumors. In February 2018, the FDA granted orphan drug designation to taurolidine for the treatment of neuroblastoma in children. We may seek one or more strategic partners or other sources of capital to help us develop and commercialize taurolidine for the treatment of neuroblastoma in children.
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Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Selling, general and administrative, or SG&A, expense includes costs related to commercial personnel, medical education professionals, marketing and advertising, salaries and other related costs, including stock-based compensation expense, for persons serving in our executive, sales, finance and accounting functions. Other SG&A expense includes facility-related costs not included in R&D expense, promotional expenses, costs associated with industry and trade shows, and professional fees for legal services and accounting services.
Foreign Currency Exchange Transaction Gain (Loss)
Foreign currency exchange transaction gain (loss) is the result of re-measuring transactions denominated in a currency other than our functional currency and is reported in the condensed consolidated statement of operations as a separate line item within other income (expense). The intercompany loans outstanding between our company based in New Jersey and our subsidiary based in Germany are not expected to be repaid in the foreseeable future and the nature of the funding advanced is of a long-term investment nature. As such, unrealized foreign exchange movements related to long-term intercompany loans are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss).
Interest Income
Interest income consists of interest earned on our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments.
Interest Expense
Interest expense consists of interest incurred on our convertible debt, amortization of debt discount and on financing of expenditures.
Results of Operations
Three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to three and nine months ended September 30, 2020
The following is a tabular presentation of our consolidated operating results (in thousands):
For the Three Months Ended September 30, | % Increase | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | % Increase | |||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | (Decrease) | 2021 | 2020 | (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenue | $ | 38,088 | $ | 93,020 | (59 | )% | $ | 134,539 | $ | 183,517 | (27 | )% | ||||||||||||
Cost of sales | (25,166 | ) | (79,913 | ) | (69 | )% | (100,931 | ) | (147,614 | ) | (32 | )% | ||||||||||||
Gross profit | 12,922 | 13,107 | (1 | )% | 33,608 | 35,903 | (6 | )% | ||||||||||||||||
Operating Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Research and development | (4,741,228 | ) | (2,925,355 | ) | 62 | % | (9,897,763 | ) | (11,082,764 | ) | (11 | )% | ||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | (3,836,613 | ) | (3,691,507 | ) | 4 | % | (11,793,509 | ) | (10,089,252 | ) | 17 | % | ||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | (8,577,841 | ) | (6,616,862 | ) | 30 | % | (21,691,272 | ) | (21,172,016 | ) | 2 | % | ||||||||||||
Loss from operations | (8,564,919 | ) | (6,603,755 | ) | 30 | % | (21,657,664 | ) | (21,136,113 | ) | 2 | % | ||||||||||||
Interest income | 3,022 | 10,843 | (72 | )% | 10,036 | 113,125 | (91 | )% | ||||||||||||||||
Foreign exchange transaction loss | (2,088 | ) | (35 | ) | 5,866 | % | (11,232 | ) | (59,241 | ) | (81 | )% | ||||||||||||
Interest expense, including amortization of debt discount | (5,381 | ) | (7,800 | ) | (31 | )% | (10,565 | ) | (27,904 | ) | (62 | )% | ||||||||||||
Total other income (expense) | (4,447 | ) | 3,008 | (248 | )% | (11,761 | ) | 25,980 | (145 | )% | ||||||||||||||
Loss before income taxes | (8,569,366 | ) | (6,600,747 | ) | 30 | % | (21,669,425 | ) | (21,110,133 | ) | (3 | )% | ||||||||||||
Tax benefit | - | - | - | 1,250,186 | 5,169,395 | (76 | )% | |||||||||||||||||
Net loss | (8,569,366 | ) | (6,600,747 | ) | 30 | % | (20,419,239 | ) | (15,940,738 | ) | 28 | % | ||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (3,679 | ) | (5,931 | ) | (38 | )% | (6,504 | ) | 2,402 | (371 | )% | |||||||||||||
Comprehensive loss | $ | (8,573,045 | ) | $ | (6,606,678 | ) | 30 | % | $ | (20,425,743 | ) | $ | (15,938,336 | ) | 28 | % |
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Revenue. Revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was $38,000 as compared to $93,000 in the same period last year, a decrease of $55,000. The decrease was attributable to lower sales in the Middle East and EU countries in 2021 as compared to the same period in 2020.
Revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was $135,000 as compared to $184,000 in the same period last year, a decrease of $49,000. The decrease was attributable to lower sales in Germany and other EU countries in 2021 as compared to the same period in 2020.
Cost of Sales. Cost of sales was $25,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $80,000 in the same period last year, a decrease of $55,000. The decrease was primarily attributable to the net decrease in cost of materials as a result of lower sales.
Cost of sales was $101,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $148,000 in the same period last year, a decrease of $47,000. The decrease was primarily attributable to the net decrease in cost of materials as a result of lower sales in 2021 as compared to the same period in 2020.
Research and Development Expense. R&D expense was $4,741,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2021, an increase of $1,816,000, or 62%, from $2,925,000 for the same period in 2020. The increase was driven by net increase in costs related to the manufacturing of DefenCath prior to its potential marketing approval of $1,408,000. Additionally, there were also an increase in personnel expenses of $171,000, as a result of additional hires during the fourth quarter of 2020 through the first half of 2021, and an increase in non-cash charges for stock-based compensation of $145,000.
R&D expense was $9,898,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, a decrease of $1,185,000, or 11%, from $11,083,000 for the same period in 2020. The decrease was driven by net decrease in costs related to the manufacturing of DefenCath prior to its potential marketing approval of $2,469,000. The decrease was partially offset, among others of lesser significance, by an increase in personnel expenses of $813,000, as a result of additional hires during the fourth quarter of 2020 through the first half of 2021, and an increase in non-cash charges for stock-based compensation of $555,000.
Selling, General and Administrative Expense. SG&A expense was $3,837,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2021, an increase of $145,000, or 4%, from $3,692,000 for the same period in 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in non-cash charges for stock-based compensation of $290,000, and an increase in personnel expenses of $240,000, as a result of additional hires during the fourth quarter of 2020 through the first half of 2021. These increases were partially offset, among others of lesser significance, by a decrease in costs related to marketing research studies in preparation for the potential marketing approval of DefenCath of $249,000 and a decrease in consulting fees of $185,000
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SG&A expense was $11,794,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, an increase of $1,705,000, or 17%, from $10,089,000 for the same period in 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in non-cash charges for stock-based compensation of $1,251,000, an increase in personnel expenses of $936,000, as a result of additional hires during the fourth quarter of 2020 through the first half of 2021. These increases were partially offset, among others of lesser significance, by a decrease in consulting fees of $533,000.
Foreign Exchange Transaction Gain (Loss). A foreign exchange transaction loss of $2,000 was recorded for the three months ended September 30, 2021 compared to no foreign exchange transaction loss or gain recorded for the three months ended September 30, 2020. These losses occur due to the re-measuring of transactions denominated in a currency other than our functional currency.
Foreign exchange transaction losses were recorded for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020 of $11,000 and $59,000, respectively. These losses occurred due to the re-measuring of transactions denominated in a currency other than our functional currency.
Interest Income. Interest income was $3,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $11,000 for the same period last year, a decrease of $8,000. The decrease was attributable to lower interest rates this year as compared to last year.
Interest income was $10,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $113,000 for the same period last year, a decrease of $103,000. The decrease was attributable to lower interest rates this year as compared to last year.
Interest Expense. Interest expense was $5,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2021 as compared to $8,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2020, a decrease of $3,000.
Interest expense was $11,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 compared to $28,000 for the same period last year.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss). Unrealized foreign exchange movements related to long-term intercompany loans, the translation of the foreign affiliate financial statements to U.S. dollars and unrealized movements related to short-term investment resulted in losses of $4,000 and $6,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Unrealized foreign exchange movements related to long-term loans and the translation of the foreign affiliate financial statements to U.S. dollars and unrealized movements related to short term investment are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) totaling a loss of $7,000 and a gain of $2,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Tax Benefit. Tax benefits for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020 of $1,250,000 and $5,169,000, respectively, was an income tax benefit due to the sale of our unused NOL for the state fiscal years 2020 and 2019, respectively, through the NJEDA Program.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Sources of Liquidity
As a result of our cost of sales, R&D and SG&A expenditures and the lack of substantial product sales revenue, our ongoing operations have not been profitable since our inception. During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, we received net proceeds of $41,456,000 from the issuance of 3,737,862 shares of common stock under our at-the-market-issuance sales agreement as compared to $3,046,000 of net proceeds for the same period in 2020 from the issuance of 477,721 shares of common stock. Additionally, we also received $165,000 and $412,000 from the exercise of warrants during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively. We will continue to be reliant on external sources of cash for the foreseeable future until we are able to generate revenue.
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In June 2021, we received approximately $1,250,000, net of expenses, from the sale of our unused New Jersey NOL eligible for sale under the NJEDA Program. The NJEDA Program allowed us to sell approximately $1,250,000 of our total $1,337,000 in available NOL tax benefits for the state fiscal year 2020.
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities
Net cash used in operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was $15,286,000 as compared to $16,034,000 for the same period in 2020, a decrease in net cash used in operations of $748,000. The decrease was driven by an increase in accrued expenses of $1,065,000 as compared to a decrease of $2,286,000 for the same period in 2020, partially offset by an increase in net loss of $4,479,000 mainly attributable to lower cash received from the NOL sale of $1,250,000 as compared to $5,169,000 for the same period in 2020.
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was $2,006,000 as compared to $9,274,000 provided by investing activities in the same period in 2020. The net cash used during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was mainly driven by the higher amount invested in short-term investments in addition to an increase in purchases of equipment offset by the lower amount of matured investments as compared to the same period in 2020.
Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was $41,758,000 as compared to $24,778,000 for the same period in 2020, an increase of $16,980,000. During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, we generated net proceeds of $41,456,000 from the sale of our common stock in our at-the-market, or ATM program, $165,000 from the exercise of warrants and $137,000 from the exercise of stock options. In the same period in 2020, we generated net proceeds of $21,320,000 from the underwritten public offering of our common stock, $3,046,000 from the sale of our common stock in our ATM program, and $412,000 from the exercise of warrants.
Funding Requirements and Liquidity
Our total cash on hand and short-term investments as of September 30, 2021 was $72.0 million, excluding restricted cash of $0.2 million, compared with $46.3 million at December 31, 2020. As of September 30, 2021, we have $150.0 million available under our new shelf registration statement filed on August 12, 2021 for the issuance of equity, debt or equity-linked securities and $50.0 million under our ATM program relating to our shelf registration statement filed in November 2020.
Because our business has not generated positive operating cash flow, additional capital will likely be required in order to fund pre-commercial launch activities for DefenCath, as well as other taurolidine-based research and development activities and our operations generally. Our continued operations will depend on our ability to raise sufficient funds through various potential sources, such as equity, debt financings, and/or strategic relationships. We can provide no assurances that financing or strategic relationships will be available on acceptable terms, or at all.
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We expect to continue to fund operations from cash on hand and through capital raising sources as previously described, which may be dilutive to existing stockholders, through revenues from the licensing of our products, or through strategic alliances. We may seek to sell additional equity or debt securities through one or more discrete transactions, or enter into a strategic alliance arrangement, but can provide no assurances that any such financing or strategic alliance arrangement will be available on acceptable terms, or at all. Moreover, the incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased fixed obligations and could contain covenants that would restrict our operations. Raising additional funds through strategic alliance arrangements with third parties may require significant time to complete and could force us to relinquish valuable rights to our technologies, future revenue streams, research programs or product candidates, or to grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us or our stockholders. Our actual cash requirements may vary materially from those now planned due to a number of factors, any change in the focus and direction of our research and development programs, any acquisition or pursuit of development of new product candidates, competitive and technical advances, the costs of commercializing any of our product candidates, and costs of filing, prosecuting, defending and enforcing any patent claims and any other intellectual property rights.
Sales of Neutrolin outside the U.S. are not expected to generate significant product revenues for the foreseeable future, and we expect to grow product sales for DefenCath in the U.S., should we receive FDA approval. In the absence of significant revenue, we are likely to continue generating operating cash flow deficits. We will continue to use cash as we increase other activities leading to the commercialization of DefenCath upon approval, pursue business development activities, and incur additional legal costs to defend our intellectual property.
We currently estimate that as of September 30, 2021, we have sufficient cash on hand to fund operations at least through 2022, after taking into consideration the costs for re-submission of the NDA and initial preparations for the commercial launch for DefenCath. Additional financing may be required to build out our commercial infrastructure following FDA approval and to continue our operations should we decide to market and sell DefenCath in the U.S. on our own. If we are unable to raise additional funds when needed, we may be forced to slow or discontinue our preparations for the commercial launch of DefenCath. We may also be required to delay, scale back or eliminate some or all of our research and development programs. Each of these alternatives would likely have a material adverse effect on our business.
Contractual Obligations
We entered into a seven-year operating lease agreement in March 2020 for an office space at 300 Connell Drive, Berkeley Heights, New Jersey 07922. The lease agreement, with a monthly average cost of approximately $17,000, commenced on September 16, 2020. Our sublease on our previous premises at 400 Connell Drive, Berkeley Heights, New Jersey 07922 terminated on November 30, 2020.
Critical Accounting Policies
Our management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or GAAP. The preparation of these condensed consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities and expenses. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate these estimates and judgments, including those described below. We base our estimates on our historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates and assumptions form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results and experiences may differ materially from these estimates.
For the nine-month period ended September 30, 2021, there were no significant changes to our critical accounting policies as identified in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2019, the FASB issued new guidance which removes certain exceptions to the general principles of the accounting for income taxes and also improves consistent application of and simplification of other areas when accounting for income taxes. The guidance was effective for us beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021. Early adoption was permitted. This adoption on January 1, 2021 did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements.
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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk.
None.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures are designed only to provide reasonable assurance that information to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) as of September 30, 2021. Based on the foregoing evaluation, our Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Other than the appointment of our current Chief Financial Officer as an interim Chief Executive Officer in addition to his role as our Chief Financial Officer on October 4, 2021, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls, that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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PART
II
OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
On or around July 22, 2021, a purported stockholder of ours filed a putative class action complaint in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, naming us as defendants, Khoso Baluch, Matthew David and Phoebe Mounts. The complaint alleges violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, based on alleged misstatements and omissions in connection with the NDA submitted to the FDA for DefenCath, and the subsequent notification by the FDA that the NDA could not be approved in its present form. The complaint purports to assert claims on behalf of persons that purchased or otherwise acquired shares of our securities between July 8, 2020 and May 13, 2021. On or around September 13, 2021, another purported stockholder of ours filed a substantially similar complaint in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, naming us as defendants, Khoso Baluch, Matthew David and Phoebe Mounts and purporting to assert claims on behalf of persons that purchased or otherwise acquired shares of our securities between October 16, 2020 and May 13, 2021. On October 13, 2021, the Court consolidated the actions into In re CorMedix Inc. Securities Litigation, Case No. 2:21-cv014020-JXN-CLW and appointed lead counsel and lead plaintiff. On October 15, 2021, the Court entered a stipulation and order outlining that the lead plaintiff shall file an amended complaint within 60 days; the defendants shall file a motion to dismiss within 45 days thereafter; the lead plaintiff shall file an opposition within 45 days thereafter; and the defendants shall file a reply within 30 days thereafter. We intend to vigorously contest such claims.
On or about October 13, 2021, a purported shareholder, derivatively and on our behalf, filed a shareholder derivative complaint in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, against Khoso Baluch, Janet Dillione, Alan W. Dunton, Myron Kaplan, Steven Lefkowitz, Paulo F. Costa, Greg Duncan, Matthew David, and Phoebe Mounts along with us as Nominal Defendant. The complaint alleges breaches of fiduciary duties, abuse of control, and waste of corporate assets against the defendants and a claim for contribution for purported violations of Sections 10(b) and 21D of the Exchange Act against certain defendants. The case is at an early stage.
On September 9, 2014, we filed in the District Court of Mannheim, Germany a patent infringement action against TauroPharm GmbH and Tauro-Implant GmbH as well as their respective CEOs, referred to as the Defendants claiming infringement of our European Patent EP 1 814 562 B1, which was granted by the EPO on January 8, 2014, or the Prosl European Patent. The Prosl European Patent covers a low dose heparin catheter lock solution for maintaining patency and preventing infection in a hemodialysis catheter. In this action, we claim that the Defendants infringe on the Prosl European Patent by manufacturing and distributing catheter locking solutions to the extent they are covered by the claims of the Prosl European Patent. We believe that our patent is sound and are seeking injunctive relief and raising claims for information, rendering of accounts, calling back, destruction and damages. Separately, TauroPharm has filed an opposition with the EPO against the Prosl European Patent alleging that it lacks novelty and inventive step. We cannot predict the ultimate outcome of either of these related matters. At present, the EPO has revoked the Prosl European Patent as invalid, and we have filed an appeal, which is currently pending.
In the same complaint against the same Defendants, we also alleged an infringement (requesting the same remedies) of NDP’s utility model DE 20 2005 022 124 U1, referred to as the Utility Model, which we believe is fundamentally identical to the Prosl European Patent in its main aspects and claims. The Court separated the two proceedings and the Prosl European Patent and the Utility Model claims were tried separately. TauroPharm has filed a cancellation action against the Utility Model before the German Patent and Trademark Office, or German PTO based on the similar arguments as those in the opposition against the Prosl European Patent.
The Court issued its decisions on May 8, 2015, staying both proceedings. In its decisions, the Court found that the commercialization by TauroPharm in Germany of its TauroLock catheter lock solutions Hep100 and Hep500 infringes both the Prosl European Patent and the Utility Model and further that there is no prior use right that would allow TauroPharm to continue to make, use or sell its product in Germany. However, the Court declined to issue an injunction in favor of us that would preclude the continued commercialization by TauroPharm based upon its finding that there is a sufficient likelihood that the EPO, in the case of the Prosl European Patent, or the German PTO, in the case of the Utility Model, may find that such patent or utility model is invalid. Specifically, the Court noted the possible publication of certain instructions for product use that may be deemed to constitute prior art. As such, the District Court determined that it will defer any consideration of the request by us for injunctive and other relief until such time as the EPO or the German PTO made a final decision on the underlying validity of the Prosl European Patent and the Utility Model.
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The opposition proceeding against the Prosl European Patent before the EPO is ongoing. Oral proceedings before the Opposition Division at the EPO were held on November 25, 2015, at which the three-judge patent examiner panel considered arguments related to the validity of the Prosl European Patent. The hearing was adjourned due to the fact that the panel was of the view that Claus Herdeis, one of the managing directors of TauroPharm, had to be heard as a witness in a further hearing in order to close some gaps in the documentation presented by TauroPharm as regards the publication of prior art.
The German PTO held a hearing in the validity proceedings relating to the Utility Model on June 29, 2016, at which the panel affirmed its preliminary finding that the Utility Model was invalid based upon prior publication of a reference to the benefits that may be associated with adding heparin to a taurolidine based solution. We filed an appeal against the ruling on September 7, 2016. An oral hearing was held on September 17, 2019 in which the German Federal Patent Court affirmed the first instance decision that the Utility Model was invalid. The decision has only a declaratory effect, as the Utility Model had expired in November 2015. On April 28, 2020, we filed a withdrawal of the complaint on the German utility model, thereby waiving our claims on these proceedings.
On November 22, 2017, the EPO in Munich, Germany held a further oral hearing in this matter. At the hearing, the panel held that the Prosl European Patent would be invalidated because it did not meet the requirements of novelty based on a technical aspect of the European intellectual property law. We disagree with this decision and have appealed the decision. We continue to believe that the Prosl European Patent is indeed novel and that its validity should be maintained. There can be no assurance that we will prevail in this matter.
On January 16, 2015, we filed a complaint against TauroPharm GmbH and its managing directors in the District Court of Cologne, Germany. In the complaint, we allege violation of the German Unfair Competition Act by TauroPharm and that TauroPharm is improperly and unfairly using our proprietary information relating to the composition and manufacture of Neutrolin, in the manufacture and sale of TauroPharm’s products TauroLockTM, TauroLock-HEP100 and TauroLock-HEP500. We sought a cease and desist order against TauroPharm from continuing to manufacture and sell any product containing taurolidine (the API of Neutrolin) and citric acid in addition to possible other components, damages for any sales in the past and the removal of all such products from the market. Hearings in this matter were held in the District Court of Cologne, Germany on November 19, 2015, on November 15, 2016 and on November 20, 2018. A decision was rendered by the Court on December 11, 2018, dismissing the complaint in its entirety. We appealed in January 2019. An oral hearing was held on September 6, 2019. In view of new arguments brought forward in this hearing, the Court issued an evidentiary order on September 27, 2019 ordering an expert opinion. The expert opinion was not in our favor. In a supplementary expert opinion submitted after we had brought forward arguments against the first expert opinion, the expert confirmed his view. In an oral hearing held on June 18, 2021, the Court only heard from the expert, and the Court as well as both parties asked further questions to the expert around his expert opinion. At the end of the hearing and internal deliberation among the panel of judges, the Court indicated that it would dismiss our complaint if we did not withdraw the appeal. As there were no advantages to further pursuing the matter in view of the Court’s statements, we withdrew the appeal and the proceedings are therefore now closed. TauroPharm requested an increase of the value in dispute determined by the Court in order to receive a higher reimbursement of costs (as this is based on the value in dispute under German law) but the request was rejected in view of arguments brought forward against it by our legal counsel. The cost proceedings are ongoing and the amount of costs we will have to reimburse is still to be determined by the Court.
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Item 1A. Risk Factors.
The outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19, or other pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of an infectious disease may materially and adversely impact our business, including our preclinical studies and clinical trials.
In December 2019, the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19, was identified in Wuhan, China. This virus has been declared a pandemic and has spread to multiple global regions. The outbreak and government measures taken in response have also had a significant impact, both direct and indirect, on businesses and commerce, as worker shortages have occurred; supply chains have been disrupted; facilities and production have been suspended; and demand for certain goods and services, such as medical services and supplies, has spiked, while demand for other goods and services, such as travel, has fallen. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, “shelter in place” orders and other public health guidance measures have been implemented across much of the United States, Europe and Asia, including in the locations of our offices, clinical trial sites, key vendors and partners. Such “shelter in place” orders were previously lifted, at least partially, in many locations. However, an increase in the spread of COVID-19 and variants, including the Delta variant, which may affect the spread or severity of one or more successive waves of the virus, has led, and may continue to lead, to the re-imposition by many nations and U.S. of quarantine requirements for travelers from other regions and may lead to the re-imposition of “shelter-in-place” or other similar orders. Although several vaccines for prevention or mitigation of the severity of the virus have been granted Emergency Use Authorization by the FDA and foreign regulatory authorities, the timely distribution, public acceptance and effectiveness thereof in reducing the pandemic remain uncertain. If an onsite inspection of the third-party manufacturing facility of our contract manufacturer is required for the satisfactory resolution of issues required for approval of the DefenCath NDA, the Company may encounter additional delays in obtaining FDA approval because the FDA is currently facing a backlog due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Our clinical development program timelines may be negatively affected by COVID-19, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further, due to “shelter in place” orders and other public health guidance measures, we have implemented a work-from-home policy for all staff members excluding those necessary to maintain minimum basic operations. Our increased reliance on personnel working from home may negatively impact productivity, or disrupt, delay or otherwise adversely impact our business. Furthermore, a widespread return of in-person workplace or commercial activities could lead to a resurgence of the virus.
As a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, or similar pandemics, and related travel restrictions and “shelter in place” orders and other public health guidance measures, we have and may in the future experience disruptions that could materially and adversely impact our clinical trials, business, financial condition and results of operations. Potential disruptions include but are not limited to:
● | delays or difficulties at our third-party vendors on whom we are dependent for manufacturing activities; | |
● | delays or difficulties in enrolling patients in our clinical trials; | |
● | delays or difficulties in initiating or expanding clinical trials, including delays or difficulties with clinical site initiation and recruiting clinical site investigators and clinical site staff; | |
● | increased rates of patients withdrawing from our clinical trials following enrollment as a result of contracting COVID-19 or other health conditions or being forced to quarantine; | |
● | diversion of healthcare resources away from the conduct of clinical trials, including the diversion of hospitals serving as our clinical trial sites and hospital staff supporting the conduct of our clinical trials; | |
● | interruption of key clinical trial activities, such as clinical trial site data monitoring, due to limitations on travel imposed or recommended by federal or state governments, employers and others or interruption of clinical trial subject visits and study procedures, which may impact the integrity of subject data and clinical study endpoints; | |
● | interruption or delays in the operations of the FDA or other regulatory authorities, including a halt in on-site inspections, which may impact review and approval timelines for our NDA; | |
● | delays or disruptions in preclinical experiments and investigational new drug application-enabling studies due to restrictions of on-site staff and unforeseen circumstances at contract research organizations and vendors; | |
● | interruption of, or delays in receiving supplies of our product candidates from our contract manufacturing organizations due to staffing shortages, production slowdowns or stoppages and disruptions in delivery systems; | |
● | limitations on our ability to recruit and hire key personnel due to our inability to meet with candidates because of travel restrictions and “shelter in place” orders; | |
● | limitations on employee resources that would otherwise be focused on the conduct of our preclinical studies and clinical trials, including because of sickness of employees or their families or the desire of employees to avoid contact with large groups of people; and | |
● | interruption or delays to our sourced discovery and clinical activities. |
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The COVID-19 pandemic continues to rapidly evolve. The extent to which the outbreak impacts our business, preclinical studies and clinical trials will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, such as the ultimate geographic spread of the disease, the severity of any new variations of the virus, the duration of the pandemic, travel restrictions and social distancing in the United States and other countries, business closures or business disruptions and the effectiveness of actions taken in the United States and other countries to contain and treat the disease. If we or any of the third parties with whom we engage were to experience shutdowns or other business disruptions, our ability to conduct our business in the manner and on the timelines presently planned could be materially and negatively impacted.
In addition, the trading prices for our common stock and other biopharmaceutical companies have been highly volatile as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, we may face difficulties raising capital through sales of our common stock or such sales may be on unfavorable terms.
Item 6. Exhibits. – Morgan to update
The exhibit index set forth below is incorporated by reference in response to this Item 6.
* | Filed herewith. |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
CORMEDIX INC. | |||
Date: November 9, 2021 | By: | /s/ Matthew David | |
Name: | Matthew David | ||
Title: | Interim
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer | ||
(Principal
Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer) |
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