Akzo's asenapine matches Zyprexa in mania study

LONDON, Oct 17 (Reuters) - An experimental drug likely to be acquired by Schering-Plough SGP.N has a similar power to control mania as the current "gold standard" treatment, researchers said on Wednesday.

Asenapine was developed by Akzo Nobel's (AKZO.AS) Organon drugs unit, which is being bought by Schering-Plough.

Clinical trial results presented at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology Congress showed the new drug was comparable to Eli Lilly's (LLY.N) Zyprexa in reducing mania symptoms in patients with a manic or mixed episode of bipolar disorder.

Another study at the meeting also showed asenapine had little effect on heart rhythm changes in schizophrenia patients.

Asenapine is considered one of the most important compounds being developed by Organon, which Schering-Plough agreed to buy in March for 11 billion euros ($15.60 billion) to expand its line of prescription drugs. The deal is expected to close by the year end.

Some analysts, however, are uncertain about the commercial potential of the product because Pfizer (PFE.N) last year ended a collaboration on the medicine, following clinical data that did not appear to give it a clear lead over existing products.

Akzo and Schering-Plough still believe the drug can be a significant seller, since the complex nature of bipolar disorder means there is a demand for new treatment options.