Cyrano Therapeutics Reports Promising Phase 2 Results for Smell Loss Therapy

Smell and taste disorders have long been overlooked in mainstream medicine, despite their profound impact on daily life. Now, Cyrano Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage regenerative medicine company, has announced encouraging topline results from its Phase 2 FLAVOR trial evaluating CYR-064—an investigational intranasal therapy for persistent post-viral loss of smell, also known as hyposmia.

A Milestone in Smell Loss Treatment

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 2 study enrolled 151 patients across 14 clinical sites in the United States. All participants had experienced persistent hyposmia for at least six months—a point at which spontaneous recovery becomes unlikely.

The trial met its primary endpoint, demonstrating that CYR-064 is safe and well tolerated, with no treatment-related serious adverse events reported. Beyond safety, the therapy also showed durable improvements in smell function across multiple prespecified secondary efficacy endpoints.

Detailed results from the FLAVOR trial are expected to be presented at a medical conference in 2026.

According to Rick Geoffrion, President and CEO of Cyrano Therapeutics, this marks a significant breakthrough. He noted that once smell loss persists beyond six months, the chances of natural recovery drop dramatically. Moreover, the loss of smell can reduce taste perception by up to 80%, affecting two of the five primary human senses. CYR-064, he said, has the potential to become the first approved therapy for millions of patients currently living without effective treatment options.

Expert Perspective on the Findings

Dr. Mas Takashima, Chairman of the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Houston Methodist Hospital and Primary Investigator of the FLAVOR trial, highlighted the importance of the data. He described the study as the first randomized clinical trial evaluating a targeted regenerative therapy for post-viral smell loss.

With tens of millions of individuals worldwide affected—and no approved pharmaceutical treatments currently available—the findings represent a meaningful step toward addressing a serious and often underestimated condition.

How CYR-064 Works?

CYR-064 is a patent-protected, intranasal soft-mist spray formulation of a broad-spectrum phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor. It incorporates a targeted delivery system designed to enhance olfactory neuron excitability, supporting the restoration of smell function.

By directly targeting the biological pathways involved in smell perception, the therapy aims to regenerate or reactivate olfactory function rather than simply manage symptoms.

Understanding Post-Viral Hyposmia

Hyposmia refers to a decreased sense of smell, often occurring after viral infections. In many cases, the condition becomes chronic. Persistent post-viral hyposmia is associated not only with smell impairment but also with diminished taste perception.

The consequences can be far-reaching. Patients frequently report reduced quality of life, nutritional challenges, depression, safety concerns (such as inability to detect smoke or gas), and in older adults, increased risks of cognitive decline and mortality.

More than 60 million people across the United States, Europe, and Japan are currently estimated to suffer from persistent post-viral hyposmia. Despite this significant burden, no drug therapies have yet been approved specifically for the condition.

Looking Ahead

As a private, venture-backed regenerative medicine company, Cyrano Therapeutics has focused its efforts on developing treatments for smell and taste disorders since its founding. The positive Phase 2 results for CYR-064 position the company to potentially pioneer the first approved pharmaceutical therapy for persistent post-viral smell loss.

With further data presentations planned and future development steps ahead, CYR-064 may represent a turning point in the treatment landscape for millions living with chronic sensory impairment.

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