Dov Pharmaceutical has commenced dosing in a second Phase Ib clinical trial of its novel antidepressant, DOV 21,947. The trial is designed to determine the likely upper limit dose to be used in a Phase II evaluation of efficacy and safety.

The 28 subjects involved in the trial will receive single or multiple doses of DOV 21,947 or placebo for one week. Safety is being measured by adverse reaction occurrences, vital signs, ECGs, clinical lab tests and other measures.

The company expects to complete dosing by the end of the first quarter of 2006.