UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 6-K

 

REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16

UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the month of August 2022

 

Commission File Number: 001-39034

 

BELLUS HEALTH INC.

 

 
(Name of registrant)
 

 

275 Armand-Frappier Blvd.

Laval, Québec

H7V 4A7 

Canada

 

 
(Address of principal executive offices)
 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

 

  ¨ Form 20-F x Form 40-F  

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): ¨

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): ¨

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  BELLUS Health Inc.
   
Date: August 10, 2022 By: /s/ Ramzi Benamar
    Name: Ramzi Benamar
    Title: Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

  

Form 6-K Exhibit Index

 

Exhibit 
Number
  Document Description
     
99.1   Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Unaudited) for the periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.
     
99.2   Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three-month period ended June 30, 2022.
     
99.3   Form 52-109F2 Certification of Interim Filings – CEO.
     
99.4   Form 52-109F2 Certification of Interim Filings – CFO.

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements of

(Unaudited)

 

BELLUS HEALTH INC.

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(In thousands of United States dollars)

 

 

 

 

 

Bellus health INC.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(In thousands of United States dollars)

 

Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements   
    
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Financial Position  1
    
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Loss and Other Comprehensive Loss  2
    
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity  3
    
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows  4
    
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements  5

 

 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Financial Position

(Unaudited)

 

June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021

(In thousands of United States dollars)

 

 

   June 30,   December 31, 
   2022   2021 
Assets          
           
Current assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents (note 4)  $121,715   $150,078 
Short-term investments (note 4)   98,430    98,728 
Trade and other receivables   496    369 
Research tax credit receivable   1,244    1,000 
Prepaid expenses and other assets   10,375    8,029 
Total current assets   232,260    258,204 
           
Non-current assets:          
Right-of-use asset   719    853 
Other assets   245    218 
Deferred tax asset   175    220 
In-process research and development asset (note 5)   50,100    50,100 
Total non-current assets   51,239    51,391 
Total Assets  $283,499   $309,595 
           
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity          
           
Current liabilities:          
Trade and other payables  $18,837   $16,674 
Current income tax liabilities       21 
Lease liability   257    254 
Total current liabilities   19,094    16,949 
           
Non-current liabilities:          
Lease liability   463    617 
Total non-current liabilities   463    617 
Total Liabilities   19,557    17,566 
           
Shareholders' equity:          
Share capital (note 6 (a))   800,045    799,391 
Other equity (notes 6 (b) (i))   42,051    37,664 
Deficit   (587,452)   (554,324)
Accumulated other comprehensive income   9,298    9,298 
Total Shareholders’ Equity   263,942    292,029 
           
Commitments and contingencies (note 9)          
Subsequent event (note 12)          
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity  $283,499   $309,595 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

 

 1 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Loss and Other Comprehensive Loss

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data)

 

 

   Three-month periods ended   Six-month periods ended 
   June 30,   June 30, 
   2022   2021   2022   2021 
Revenues  $4   $4   $8   $8 
                     
Expenses:                    
Research and development   12,600    15,394    23,980    27,980 
Research tax credits   (140)   (193)   (266)   (331)
    12,460    15,201    23,714    27,649 
                     
General and administrative   5,379    2,805    9,429    6,275 
Total operating expenses   17,839    18,006    33,143    33,924 
Loss from operating activities   (17,835)   (18,002)   (33,135)   (33,916)
                     
Finance income   400    182    760    371 
Finance costs   (1,300)   (8)   (687)   (34)
Net finance (costs) income (note 8)   (900)   174    73    337 
Loss before income taxes   (18,735)   (17,828)   (33,062)   (33,579)
Income taxes   41        66     
Net loss and total comprehensive loss for the period  $(18,776)  $(17,828)  $(33,128)  $(33,579)
                     
Loss per share (note 9)                    
Basic and diluted  $(0.18)  $(0.23)  $(0.31)  $(0.43)

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

 

 2 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars)

 

 

               Accumulated     
               other     
   Share   Other       comprehensive     
   capital   equity   Deficit   income   Total 
   (note 6 (a))                 
Balance, December 31, 2021  $799,391   $37,664   $(554,324)  $9,298   $292,029 
                          
Total comprehensive loss for the period:                         
Net loss and comprehensive loss           (33,128)       (33,128)
                          
Total comprehensive loss for the period           (33,128)       (33,128)
                          
Transactions with shareholders, recorded directly in shareholders’ equity:                         
                          
Issued upon stock option exercises (note 6 (b) (i))   654    (573)           81 
                          
Stock-based compensation (note 6 (b) (i))       4,960            4,960 
Balance, June 30, 2022  $800,045   $42,051   $(587,452)  $9,298   $263,942 

 

               Accumulated     
               other     
   Share   Other       comprehensive     
   capital   equity   Deficit   income   Total 
   (note 6 (a))                 
Balance, December 31, 2020  $575,286   $31,360   $(468,829)  $9,298   $147,115 
                          
Total comprehensive loss for the period:                         
Net loss and comprehensive loss           (33,579)       (33,579)
                          
Total comprehensive loss for the period           (33,579)       (33,579)
                          
Transactions with shareholders, recorded directly in shareholders’ equity:                         
                          
Stock-based compensation (note 6 (b) (i))       3,441            3,441 
Balance, June 30, 2021  $575,286   $34,801   $(502,408)  $9,298   $116,977 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

 

 3 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars)

 

 

   Six-month periods ended 
   June 30, 
   2022   2021 
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Net loss for the period  $(33,128)  $(33,579)
Adjustments for:          
Depreciation   144    91 
Stock-based compensation   4,960    3,441 
Net finance (costs) income, excluding realized effect of foreign exchange on operating assets and liabilities   (264)   (337)
Other items   11    (50)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities          
Trade and other receivables   (137)   (209)
Research tax credits receivable   (266)   (55)
Prepaid expenses and other assets   (2,588)   1,279 
Deferred tax asset   45     
Trade and other payables   2,932    3,670 
Current income tax liabilities   (21)    
    (28,312)   (25,749)
           
Cash flows from financing activities:          
Payment of share issue costs - 2021 Offering   (746)    
Issuance of common shares - Proceeds received from exercise of stock options   81     
Payment of deferred financing costs   (142)   (472)
Lease liability – principal repayments   (158)   (102)
Interest paid   (10)   (18)
    (975)   (592)
           
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Purchases of short-term investments   (42,503)    
Sales of short-term investments   42,812    6,308 
Interest received   336    82 
    645    6,390 
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents   (28,642)   (19,951)
           
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   150,078    48,889 
           
Effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents   279    182 
           
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period  $121,715   $29,120 
Supplemental cashflow disclosure:          
Non-cash transactions:          
Share issue costs related to equity offerings, in Trade and other payables  $25   $ 
Deferred financing costs, in Trade and other payables   62      
Ascribed value related to issuance of common shares upon stock options exercise (note 6 (b) (i))   573     
Value of DSUs in Prepaid expenses (note 6 (b) (ii))   216    239 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

 

 4 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

1.Reporting entity:

 

BELLUS Health Inc. (“BELLUS Health” or the “Company”) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics for the treatment of refractory chronic cough (“RCC”) and other cough hypersensitivity indications. The Company's product candidate, BLU-5937, is a highly selective P2X3 antagonist in development for RCC and other cough hypersensitivity indications. The Company is domiciled in Canada. The address of the Company’s registered office is 275 Armand-Frappier Blvd., Laval, Quebec, H7V 4A7. BELLUS Health’s common shares trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market (“Nasdaq”) and on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”), both under the symbol BLU.

 

These condensed consolidated interim financial statements include the accounts of BELLUS Health Inc. and its subsidiaries.

 

The annual consolidated financial statements of the Company as at and for the year ended December 31, 2021 are available on our web site at www.bellushealth.com, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.

 

2.Basis of preparation:

 

(a)Statement of compliance:

 

These condensed consolidated interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard (IAS) 34, Interim Financial Reporting of International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). The condensed consolidated interim financial statements do not include all the information required for full annual consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the annual consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2021.

 

These condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 were approved by the Board of Directors on August 10, 2022.

 

(b)Use of estimates and judgements:

 

The preparation of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. The reported amounts and note disclosures reflect management’s best estimates of the most probable set of economic conditions and planned course of actions. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

 

 5 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

2.Basis of preparation (continued):

 

(b)Use of estimates and judgements (continued):

 

In preparing these condensed consolidated interim financial statements, the significant judgements made by management in applying the Company’s accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty were the same as those applied to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021.

 

(c)Functional and presentation currency:

 

Items included in the condensed consolidated interim financial statements of the Company are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Company operates (the functional currency). These condensed consolidated interim financial statements are presented in United States dollars ("USD"), which is the Company’s functional and presentation currency for all periods presented.

 

(d)COVID-19 pandemic:

 

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause significant financial market and social disruption. The Company cannot presently predict the scope and severity of any potential business shutdowns or disruptions related to COVID-19, the impact of any new variants nor the impact of the vaccines that are now accessible. If the Company or any of the third parties with whom it engages, were to experience shutdowns or other business disruptions due to the pandemic, its ability to conduct its business in the manner and on the timelines presently planned could be materially and negatively impacted. The Company will continue to monitor developments of the pandemic and continuously assess its potential further impact on its operations to prevent any disruptions to the conduct of its business and clinical trials. In the event of a prolonged continuation of the pandemic, it is not clear what the potential impact may be on the Company's business, financial position and financial performance.

 

3.Significant accounting policies and basis of measurement:

 

The accounting policies and basis of measurement applied in these condensed consolidated interim financial statements are the same as those applied by BELLUS Health in its consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021.

 

 6 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

  

 

4.Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments:

 

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments consist of cash balances with banks and short-term investments:

 

   June 30,   December 31, 
   2022   2021 
Cash balances with banks  $2,976   $31,841 
Short-term investments with initial maturities of three months or less or that can be withdrawn on demand:         
Savings accounts and term deposits, yielding interest at 0.40% to 3.00% as at June 30, 2022 (December 31, 2021 – 0.15% to 0.73%)   118,739    118,237 
Cash and cash equivalents   121,715    150,078 
           
Short-term investments with initial maturities greater than three months:          
Term deposits issued in CAD (CAD $24,137), yielding interest at 1.10% as at June 30, 2022 (December 31, 2021 – (CAD $34,007), 0.45% to 1.10%)   18,749    26,906 
Bearer deposit notes, yielding interest at 0.40% to 1.67% as at June 30, 2022 (December 31, 2021 – 0.40%)   79,681    37,003 
Bearer deposit notes issued in CAD (CAD $44,008), yielding interest at 0.80% to 0.85% as at December 31, 2021       34,819 
Short-term investments   98,430    98,728 
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments  $220,145   $248,806 

 

5.In-process research and development asset:

 

As at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the aggregate carrying value of the in-process research and development (“IPR&D”) asset related to BLU-5937 amounted to $50,100. The IPR&D asset related to BLU-5937 is accounted for as an indefinite-lived intangible asset until the project, currently in its clinical phase, is completed or abandoned, at which point it will be amortized or impaired, respectively.

 

 7 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

6.Shareholders’ equity:

 

(a)Share capital:

 

Changes in issued and outstanding common shares for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:

 

   Number   Dollars 
Balance, December 31, 2021   106,390,361   $799,391 
           
Issued upon stock option exercises (note 6 (b) (i))   380,933    654 
           
Balance, June 30, 2022   106,771,294   $800,045 

 

   Number   Dollars 
Balance, June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020   78,337,361   $575,286 

 

“At-the-market” sales agreement

 

On December 23, 2020, the Company entered into an “at-the-market” (“ATM”) sales agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with Jefferies LLC ("Jefferies") pursuant to which it could from time to time sell through at-the-market distributions with Jefferies acting as sales agent, its common shares for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $50 million, including sales made directly on the Nasdaq or on any other existing trading market for the common shares in the United States. On July 13, 2022, prior to the launch of the 2022 Offering (refer to note 12, Subsequent event), the Company terminated the Sales Agreement.

 

During the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, no common shares were sold under the ATM program. As a result the ATM program termination, total costs incurred to register the Sales Agreement, amounting to $390 and previously recorded as deferred financing costs and classified as prepaids and other assets in the consolidated statement of financial position, were recorded in the condensed consolidated interim statement of loss and other comprehensive loss and are presented in Finance costs.

 

 8 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

6.Shareholders’ equity (continued):

 

(b)Share-based payment arrangements:

 

(i)Stock option plan:

 

Changes in outstanding stock options issued under the stock option plan for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:

 

   Number  

Weighted
average
exercise price (1)

 
Balance, December 31, 2021   7,774,833   $3.89 
Granted (2),(3),(4)    3,555,000   $6.99 
Exercised (5)    (468,054)  $1.38 
Forfeited   (56,000)  $4.32 
Balance, June 30, 2022   10,805,779   $5.02 

 

   Number  

Weighted
average
exercise price (1)

 
Balance, December 31, 2020   6,288,166   $3.88 
Granted (6),(7),(8)    1,508,000   $4.33 
Forfeited   (39,000)  $3.32 
Balance, June 30, 2021   7,757,166   $3.97 

 

(1) USD equivalent of stock options granted in CAD is presented at the closing rate of the corresponding period.

 

(2) 2,945,000 stock options were granted on February 23, 2022, having an exercise price of $7.01; 2,320,000 stock options were granted to key management personnel and 625,000 were granted to other employees.

 

(3) 390,000 stock options were granted to key management personnel on March 23, 2022, having an exercise price of $6.38.

 

(4) 220,000 stock options were granted to other employees on May 11, 2022, having an exercise price of $7.85.

 

(5) Of these stock options exercised, 380,933 common shares were issued, and 87,121 stock options were returned to the Company and cancelled as a result of the cashless exercise feature provided in the Company’s stock option plan.

 

(6) 1,408,000 stock options were granted on February 25, 2021, having an exercise price of $4.36; 1,171,000 stock options granted to key management personnel and 237,000 granted to other employees.

 

(7) 50,000 stock options were granted to key management personnel on March 30, 2021, having an exercise price of $3.83.

 

(8) 50,000 stock options were granted to other employees on May 10, 2021, having an exercise price of $3.92.

 

 9 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

6.Shareholders’ equity (continued):

 

(b)Share-based payment arrangements (continued):

 

(i)Stock option plan (continued):

 

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable as at June 30, 2022:

 

    Options outstanding    Options exercisable 
         Weighted      
         average years      
Exercise price/share   Number    To expiration    Number 
Stock options granted in USD               
$3.83   50,000    8.8    10,000 
$3.92   50,000    8.9    10,000 
$4.36   1,388,000    8.7    277,600 
$6.38   390,000    9.8     
$7.01   2,945,000    9.7     
$7.04   160,000    9.4     
$7.85   220,000    9.9     
                
Stock options granted in CAD (1)                
$0.84 (CAD $1.08)   667,222    4.8    667,222 
$0.98 (CAD $1.26)   1,084,447    5.7    855,558 
$1.17 (CAD $1.51)   41,667    5.4    33,333 
$1.40 (CAD $1.80)   666,945    0.2    666,945 
$1.59 (CAD $2.05)   41,667    6.0    25,000 
$2.44 (CAD $3.14)   162,000    8.4    30,000 
$2.78 (CAD $3.58)   28,000    8.1    4,000 
$3.13 (CAD $4.03)   28,611    3.7    28,611 
$3.20 (CAD $4.12)   420,000    8.5    84,000 
$3.38 (CAD $4.36)   974,998    6.7    582,777 
$6.52 (CAD $8.39)   512,222    7.4    204,889 
$10.81 (CAD $13.91)   910,000    7.8    364,000 
$11.43 (CAD $14.72)   65,000    7.9    26,000 
    10,805,779    7.6    3,869,935 

 

 (1) USD equivalent of stock options granted in CAD is presented at the closing rate.

 

 10 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

6.Shareholders’ equity (continued):

 

(b)Share-based payment arrangements (continued):

 

(i)Stock option plan (continued):

 

Stock-based compensation

 

For the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022, the Company recorded a stock-based compensation expense related to the stock option plan (excluding compensation under the DSU plans) in the amount of $2,927 and $4,960 respectively in the condensed consolidated interim statement of loss and other comprehensive loss; of this amount, $1,175 and $1,874, respectively, is presented in Research and development expenses and $1,752 and $3,086, respectively, is presented in General and administrative expenses ($1,720 and $3,441 for the corresponding periods of the previous year, $625 and $1,199 respectively presented in Research and $1,095 and $2,242 respectively presented in development and General and administrative expenses).

 

The fair value of each stock option granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes pricing model. Expected volatility is estimated by considering historic average share price volatility for a period commensurate with the expected life. The weighted average assumptions for stock options granted during the six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:

 

   2022   2021 
Weighted average fair value of stock options at grant date  $5.14   $3.35 
Weighted average share price  $6.99   $3.97 
Weighted average exercise price  $6.99   $3.97 
Risk-free interest rate   2.02%   0.95%
Expected volatility   100%   112%
Expected life in years   7    7 
Expected dividend yield   Nil    Nil 

 

Dividend yield was excluded from the calculation since it is the present policy of the Company to retain all earnings to finance operations and future growth.

 

 11 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

6.Shareholders’ equity (continued):

 

(b)Share-based payment arrangements (continued):

 

(ii)Deferred share unit (“DSU”) plan:

 

Changes in the number of units outstanding for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:

 

Number of units  2022   2021 
Balance, beginning of period   311,065    253,028 
Units granted (1)    30,208    71,317 
Balance, end of period   341,273    324,345 
Balance of DSU liability, included in Trade and other payables (2)   $3,141   $1,007 

 

(1)  All DSUs were granted to key management personnel.

 

(2) Balance of DSU liability as at December 31, 2021 amounted to $2,503.

 

The stock-based compensation net expense (recovery) related to DSU plan recorded in the condensed consolidated interim statement of loss and other comprehensive loss for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 amounted to $887 and $577, respectively, presented in General and administrative expenses ($(185) and 57 respectively for the corresponding period of the previous year). During the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, the Company granted 30,208 DSUs having a fair value per unit of $8.02 (CAD $10.33) (71,317 DSUs having an average fair value per unit of $3.73 (CAD $4.63) were granted during the six-month period ended June 30, 2021).

 

 12 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

7.Net finance (costs) income:

 

Finance income and Finance costs for three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 were attributed as follows:

 

   Three-month periods ended   Six-month periods ended 
   June 30,   June 30, 
   2022   2021   2022   2021 
Interest income  $400   $63   $696   $134 
Foreign exchange gain       119    64    237 
Finance income   400    182    760    371 
Interest expense on lease liability   (10)   (8)   (19)   (16)
Interest and bank charges   (5)       (10)   (18)
Impairment of deferred financing costs   (390)       (390)    
Realized loss on sale of bearer deposit notes prior to maturity           (268)     
Foreign exchange loss   (895)            
Finance costs   (1,300)   (8)   (687)   (34)
Net finance (costs) income  $(900)  $174   $73   $337 

 

8.Loss per share:

 

   Three-month periods ended   Six-month periods ended 
   June 30,   June 30, 
   2022   2021   2022   2021 
Basic and diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding   106,757,934    78,337,361    106,624,415    78,337,361 
Basic and diluted loss per share  $(0.18)  $(0.23)  $(0.31)  $(0.43)

 

Excluded from the calculation of the diluted loss per share for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 is the impact of all stock options granted under the stock option plan, as they would be anti-dilutive.

 

Stock options granted under the stock option plan could potentially be dilutive in the future.

 

 13 

 

 

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

9.Commitments and contingencies:

 

(a)Contracts in the normal course of business:

 

The Company enters into contracts in the normal course of business, including for research and development activities, consulting and other services.

 

As at June 30, 2022, the Company has commitments for expenditures related to contracts for research and development activities of approximately $19,535 (approximately $15,153 as at December 31, 2021), of which $9,041 is expected to be payable in 2022, $9,145 in 2023 and $1,349 in 2024.

 

(b)Contingencies:

 

On March 16, 2021, a Company stockholder, Carl D. Cachia (“Plaintiff”), filed a complaint against the Company and certain of its executive officers alleging claims under provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”). On September 17, 2021, Plaintiff filed an amended class action complaint, individually and on behalf of all persons who purchased or otherwise acquired Company securities between September 5, 2019 and July 6, 2020, against the Company, certain of its executive officers, the principal investigator of the Company’s Phase 2a RELIEF trial, and the underwriters of the Company’s initial public offering in September 2019. The amended class action complaint alleges claims under the Exchange act and the Securities Act of 1933 relating to disclosures concerning the Company’s Phase 2a RELIEF trial, and seeks compensatory damages, pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, as well as attorneys’ fees, expert fees, and any other reasonable costs and expenses. On November 16, 2021, Plaintiff stipulated to dismissal of all claims against the underwriters without prejudice. Also on November 16, the Company and the named executive officers moved to dismiss the amended complaint, which motion is pending. On January 7, 2022, the principal investigator of the Company’s Phase 2a RELIEF trial also moved to dismiss the amended complaint, which motion is pending. On June 17, 2022, Plaintiff filed a motion for leave to amend his complaint, which all remaining defendants opposed, and which remains pending.

 

On July 6, 2022, a Company stockholder, Jason Gallanti (the “Canadian Plaintiff”), filed a statement of claim before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice against the Company alleging negligent misrepresentation and claims under the Ontario Securities Act (“OSA”) and equivalent provincial securities legislation relating to disclosures concerning the Company's Phase 2a RELIEF trial. The Canadian Plaintiff seeks certification of the action as a class proceeding on behalf of those who purchased the Company's stock on the TSX, leave to pursue statutory claims under the OSA, compensatory damages, prejudgment and post-judgment interest, and costs of the action.

 

No provision has been made in the financial statements for the resolution of the above matters. Resolution of these matters could have an effect on the Company’s financial statements in the period that a determination is made, however, in management’s opinion, given the early stage of these matters, the final resolution is not currently projected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position.

 

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bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

10.Related party transactions:

 

(a)There is no single ultimate controlling party.

 

(b)Dr. Francesco Bellini, Chairman of the Board of Directors, provides ongoing advisory services to the Company under the terms of a consulting and services agreement between the Company and Picchio International, wholly-owned by Dr. Francesco Bellini and his spouse. The agreement has a one-year term and shall renew for successive one-year terms. The Company recorded fees and expenses of $75 and $150 (CAD $95 and CAD$190) and $77 and $152 (CAD$95 and CAD$190) under the consulting and services agreement for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

 

(c)Key management personnel:

 

The Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Medical Officer, the Chief Scientific Officer, the Chief Operating Officer, Senior Vice Presidents and Directors of BELLUS Health are considered key management personnel of the Company.

 

The aggregate compensation for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 to key management personnel of the Company is set out below:

 

   Three-month periods ended   Six-month periods ended 
   June 30,   June 30, 
   2022   2021   2022   2021 
Short term benefits  $1,070   $739   $2,036   $1,475 
DSU plan expense (recovery)   887    (185)   577    57 
Stock option plan expense   2,226    1,294    3,823    2,601 
   $4,183   $1,848   $6,436   $4,133 

 

11.Financial instruments:

 

Carrying values and fair values:

 

Fair value estimates are made as of a specific point in time, using available information about the financial instrument. These estimates are subjective in nature and may not be determined with precision. A three-tier fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value.

 

There was no financial asset or liability fair valued on a recurring basis as at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021.

 

For its financial assets and liabilities measured at amortized cost as at June 30, 2022, the Company has determined that the carrying value of its short-term financial assets and liabilities approximates their fair value because of the relatively short periods to maturity of these instruments.

 

 15 

 

  

bellus health INC.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021

(in thousands of United States dollars, except per share data, unless otherwise noted)

 

 

12.Subsequent event:

 

On July 18, 2022, the Company closed an equity offering, issuing 16,540,541 common shares from treasury at a price of $9.25 per share for gross proceeds of $153,000. On July 28, 2022, the underwriters of the equity offering exercised their option to purchase additional common shares (over-allotment option), resulting in the issuance of an additional 2,481,081 common shares from treasury at a price of $9.25 per share, for additional gross proceeds of $22,950 (together, the “2022 Offering”). As a result, total gross proceeds of $175,950 will be presented in Share Capital, and share issue costs in the approximate amount of $11,500, comprised mainly of underwriters’ commission, legal, professional and filing fees, will be charged to the Deficit.

 

 16 

Exhibit 99.2

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

 

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) provides a review of BELLUS Health Inc.’s operations and financial performance for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022. In this MD&A, unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “BELLUS Health”, “Company”, “we”, “us”, and “our” refer to BELLUS Health Inc. This document should be read in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022, as well as our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021.

 

We prepare our condensed consolidated interim financial statements in accordance with the International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 34, Interim Financial Reporting of International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). The condensed consolidated interim financial statements and MD&A for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 have been reviewed by our Audit Committee and approved by our Board of Directors. This MD&A was prepared by management with information available as at August 10, 2022. Additional information regarding our business and other matters, including related-party transactions, contractual obligations, financial risk management, disclosure controls and procedures, internal control over financial reporting, and risks and uncertainties, can be found in our Annual Report and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2021, as well as in our annual report on Form 40-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and our other public filings, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar. Please also refer to the “Risks and Uncertainties” section, which can be found below.

 

This document contains forward-looking statements, which are qualified by reference to, and should be read together with the “Forward-Looking Statements” cautionary notice, which can be found below.

 

All currency figures reported in the condensed consolidated interim financial statements and in this document are in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise specified.

 

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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

Certain statements contained in this MD&A may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws in Canada and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended (collectively, “forward-looking statements”), which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, objectives and strategies to achieve those objectives, as well as statements with respect to our beliefs, targets, expectations, anticipations, estimates or intentions. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “believe”, “may”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “should”, “plan”, “expect”, “predict”, “potential”, “could”, “assume”, “project”, “guidance” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements include such words. These statements reflect current expectations of management regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this MD&A. The statements we make regarding the following matters are forward-looking by their nature and are based on certain of the assumptions noted below:

 

·our aim to develop and commercialize BLU-5937 for the treatment of hypersensitization disorders, including refractory chronic cough (“RCC”) and other cough-related conditions;

 

·our aim to initiate the Phase 3 clinical program in the fourth quarter of 2022 and the design of such Phase 3 clinical program;

 

·our aim to initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial investigating a once-daily (“QD”) dosing, extended- release formulation of BLU-5937 in the fourth quarter of 2022;

 

·our aim to complete preclinical studies supporting Phase 3 clinical program with BLU-5937;

 

·our aim to complete additional Phase 1 clinical trials supporting Phase 3 clinical program with BLU-5937;

 

·our aim to further explore the potential of BLU-5937 for the treatment of other afferent hypersensitization-related conditions;

 

·our aim to complete all non-clinical and clinical pharmacology activities with BLU-5937 necessary to support a New Drug Application (“NDA”) filing;

 

·our expectations with respect to the timing and cost of the research and development activities of BLU-5937;

 

·our aim to complete the validation of the VitaloJAK for cough frequency measurement in our studied patient population;

 

·the function, potential benefits, tolerability profile and clinical activity of our product candidates, including BLU-5937, including with respect to the patient population studied, pricing and labeling;

 

·our expectations with respect to pre-commercialization activities related to the commercial launch of BLU-5937, if approved;

 

·our expectations regarding the potential development of a QD dosing regimen of BLU-5937 utilizing an extended-release formulation;

 

·our expectations regarding our ability to arrange for and scale up the manufacturing of BLU-5937 to reach commercial scale;

 

·our estimates and assessment of the potential markets (including size) for our product candidates;

 

·our expectations regarding coverage, reimbursement and pricing and acceptance of our product candidates by the market, if approved, including pricing comparisons with other P2X3 antagonists;

 

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·our estimates and projections regarding the size of the total addressable global RCC market and associated P2X3 revenue potential;

 

·the benefits and risks of our product candidates as compared to others;

 

·our aim to obtain regulatory approval to market our product candidates;

 

·our expectations with respect to the cost of preclinical studies, clinical trials and potential commercialization of our product candidates, including BLU-5937;

 

·our expectation of the continued listing of the common shares on the TSX and Nasdaq;

 

·our current and future capital requirements and anticipated sources of financing or revenue;

 

·our expectations regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our business;

 

·our expectations regarding the protection of our intellectual property and our ability to secure patent term extensions for our intellectual property;

 

·our business strategy; and

 

·our development and partnership plans and objectives.

 

The preceding list is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all of our forward-looking statements.

 

Conclusions, forecasts and projections set out in forward-looking information are based on our current objectives and strategies and on expectations and estimates and other factors and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable at the time applied but may prove to be incorrect. These include, but are not limited to:

 

·the function, potential benefits, effectiveness and safety of BLU-5937;

 

·the accuracy of our belief that our selective P2X3 antagonist may have an improved tolerability profile compared to the most advanced P2X3 receptor antagonist in development, Merck & Co.’s gefapixant;

 

·our progress, timing and costs related to the development, completion and potential commercialization of our product candidate;

 

·our estimates and projections regarding our industry;

 

·the market acceptance of our product candidate, if approved;

 

·the future success of current research and development activities;

 

·our achievement of development and commercial milestones, including forecasted preclinical study and clinical trial milestones within the anticipated timeframe;

 

·our reliance on third parties to conduct preclinical studies and clinical trials for BLU-5937;

 

·the accuracy of the timelines and cost estimates related to our preclinical and clinical programs;

 

·the successful development of a QD dosing with extended-release formulation for BLU-5937;

 

·our ability to achieve intended order of market entry of BLU-5937 relative to other P2X3 antagonists;

 

·the accuracy of our findings of statistically significant interaction between baseline cough frequency and treatment benefit, and realization of the intended benefits of our enrichment strategy;

 

·the accuracy of our estimates and projections regarding potential pricing for BLU-5937, including parity to other P2X3 antagonists;

 

·the accuracy of our estimates and projections regarding the size of the total addressable global RCC market and associated P2X3 revenue potential;

 

·the capacity of our primary supply chain to produce the required clinical supplies to support a Phase 3 clinical program in RCC within the anticipated timeframe, and the absence of further global supply chain disruptions with respect to such required clinical supplies, including those that may be caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic;

 

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·the absence of interruption or delays in the operations of our suppliers of components or raw materials, contract research organizations or other third parties with whom we engage, whether as a result of disruptions caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic or otherwise;

 

·the accuracy of our expectations regarding labeling indication for BLU-5937 in RCC and the potential to expand the use of P2X3 antagonists to all RCC patients;

 

·the absence of material deterioration in general business and economic conditions, including the impact on the economy and financial markets of the war in Ukraine, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and other health risks;

 

·the effectiveness of COVID-19 containment efforts, including the roll-out of vaccination programs, the effectiveness of vaccines against variant strains of COVID-19 (including the Omicron variants) and the gradual recovery of global environment and global economic conditions;

 

·the impact of COVID-19 on participant enrollment;

 

·the risks of delays and inability to complete clinical trials due to difficulties enrolling participants, including, but not limited to, as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic;

 

·the receipt of regulatory and governmental approvals to continue with research and development projects and timing thereof;

 

·the availability of tax credits and financing for research and development projects, and the availability of financing on favorable terms;

 

·our expectations regarding our status as a passive foreign investment company;

 

·the accuracy of our estimates regarding future financing and capital requirements and expenditures;

 

·the achievement of our forecasted cash burn rate;

 

·the sufficiency and validity of our intellectual property rights;

 

·our ability to secure, maintain and protect our intellectual property rights, and to operate without infringing on the proprietary rights of others or having third parties circumvent the rights owned or licensed by us;

 

·our ability to source and maintain licenses from third-party owners on acceptable terms and conditions;

 

·the risk of patent-related litigation;

 

·the absence of significant changes in Canadian dollar-U.S. dollar and other foreign exchange rates or significant variability in interest rates;

 

·the absence of material changes in market competition and accuracy of our assumptions and projections regarding profile and market dynamic amongst more selective agents;

 

·our ability to attract and retain skilled staff;

 

·our ability to maintain ongoing relations with employees and business partners, suppliers and other third parties;

 

·the accuracy of the market research, third-party industry data and forecasts relied upon by us; and

 

·the absence of adverse changes in relevant laws or regulations.

 

There are important factors that could cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. See the “Risk Factors” section in our Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2021 as well as our other public filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and the United States Securities and Exchange Commission for further risk factors that might affect us and our business. Please also refer to the “Risks and Uncertainties” section, which can be found below. Should one or more of the risks, uncertainties or other factors outlined in our Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2021 as well as our other public filings materialize, our objectives, strategies or intentions change, or any of the factors or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, our actual results and our plans and targets could vary significantly from what we currently foresee. Accordingly, we warn investors to exercise caution when considering statements containing forward-looking information and that it would be unreasonable to rely on such statements as creating legal rights regarding our future results or plans or targets. All of the forward-looking information in this MD&A is qualified by the cautionary statements herein.

 

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In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this MD&A, and while we believe such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements.

 

You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this MD&A, to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.

 

CORPORATE PROFILE

 

We are a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics for the treatment of refractory chronic cough (“RCC”) and other hypersensitization disorders. Our lead product candidate, BLU-5937, is a highly selective second generation antagonist of the P2X3 receptor, a clinically validated target to treat cough hypersensitivity. We are currently developing BLU-5937 for the treatment of adults with RCC. We believe this hypersensitization-related disorder, which includes a pathophysiology that is mediated through the P2X3 receptor, represents an area of significant unmet medical need and its treatment represents a potentially large market opportunity. We believe BLU-5937’s characteristics observed in our preclinical studies, Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials support the development of BLU-5937 and, if approved, position it as a potentially best-in-class agent in the P2X3 antagonist class for the treatment of RCC. On December 13, 2021, we announced positive topline results from SOOTHE, a Phase 2b trial evaluating the tolerability and clinical activity of BLU-5937 in participants diagnosed with RCC. On July 12, 2022, we announced a positive End-of-Phase 2 (“EOP2”) meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and the details of the CALM Phase 3 clinical program for BLU-5937 for the treatment of RCC. In addition, on July 22, 2022, we also received Scientific Advice from the European Medicines Agency's (“EMA”) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (“CHMP”). We are awaiting feedback from the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (“MHRA”). We are preparing to initiate the CALM Phase 3 program in the fourth quarter of 2022.

 

BELLUS Health’s shares trade on the Nasdaq Global Market (“Nasdaq”) and on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) both under the symbol “BLU”.

 

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BUSINESS OVERVIEW

 

Key Updates

 

Completed positive EOP2 meeting with the FDA and received scientific advice from the EMA to support the design of our CALM Phase 3 clinical program for BLU-5937 in RCC.

 

·The CALM Phase 3 clinical program consists of two pivotal trials (CALM-1 and CALM-2), with primary efficacy endpoint of 24-hour cough frequency measured at 12- and 24-weeks, respectively. We have reached alignment with the FDA on the primary efficacy endpoint of 24H cough frequency reduction being assessed using the VitaloJAK cough monitoring system in a patient population enriched for baseline cough frequency.
  
·Secondary efficacy endpoints include Cough Severity using Visual Analogue Scale (CS-VAS), the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) and Chronic Cough Diary (CCD). The CALM Phase 3 trials will also enroll participants with baseline 24H cough frequency <20 coughs/hour. A secondary efficacy endpoint will assess reduction in cough frequency in a broader population including the enriched population and additional participants with baseline 24H cough frequency below 20 coughs/hour.
  
·The first patient is expected to be enrolled in both CALM-1 and CALM-2 in the fourth quarter of 2022. Topline results from CALM-1 are expected in the second half of 2024.
  
·In addition, we have obtained scientific advice from the EMA and based on the feedback, we will not be making any modifications to the CALM Phase 3 program design.
  
·Regulatory path identified for marketing application and potential approval of BLU-5937.

 

Completed a $176.0 million public offering of common shares in Canada and the United States.

 

·In July 2022, we completed an offering of our common shares resulting in gross proceeds of $176.0 million and net proceeds of approximately $164.5 million, including the full exercise of the over-allotment option.

 

Presented at the Twelfth London International Cough Symposium (“LICS”) and the American Thoracic Society (“ATS”) 2022 International Conference.

 

·Clinical data from the Phase 2b SOOTHE trial was presented at both the 12th LICS, held in London, England from July 13-14, 2022 and the ATS 2022 International Conference, held in San Francisco, California from May 13-18, 2022. The presentation materials are available in the “Scientific Publications” section of BELLUS Health's website.

 

Pursuing development of our P2X3 pipeline.

 

·We expect to initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial investigating a once-daily, extended-release formulation of BLU-5937 in the fourth quarter of 2022.

 

Ended the second quarter of 2022 with cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaling $220.1 million (approximately $384.6 million proforma cash that includes the cash at the end of the second quarter and the net proceed from the July 2022 offering).

 

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BUSINESS SECTION

 

Our Pipeline

 

We are developing BLU-5937, an investigational, potent, highly selective, small molecule antagonist of the P2X3 receptor, as an oral therapy for RCC patients.

 

 

On July 12, 2022, we announced a positive EOP-2 meeting with the FDA and the details of the CALM Phase 3 clinical program for BLU-5937. In addition, on July 22, 2022, we received scientific advice from the EMA’s CHMP. Based on this and EMA’s feedback, the CALM Phase 3 clinical program is composed of two pivotal trials, CALM-1 and CALM-2 with 3 expected arms: 25 mg, 50 mg and placebo twice daily (“BID”) dosing. Primary efficacy endpoint is 24H cough frequency at 12 weeks in CALM-1 and 24 weeks in CALM-2. We have reached alignment with the FDA on using primary efficacy endpoint in population enriched for baseline cough frequency, similar to successful SOOTHE Phase 2b clinical trial. The safety database will be supported by randomized extension and an additional open label extension of CALM-1 and open label extension of CALM-2. First patient enrollment in both CALM-1 and CALM-2 is expected in the fourth quarter of 2022; pivotal topline data from CALM-1 are expected in the second half of 2024. The VitaloJAK cough monitoring system, which was used in SOOTHE and most recent cough trials, will be used in the CALM Phase 3 clinical program. A validation study comparing compressed recordings with non-compressed recordings from the SOOTHE Phase 2b clinical trial is ongoing, and preliminary results from the first 30 recordings demonstrated a sensitivity of 98.4% with no systematic errors present. Complete results are expected in the fourth quarter of 2022 or the first quarter of 2023.

 

We are actively planning our Phase 3 clinical program for BLU-5937 and have sought and will continue to seek US FDA, EMA and the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA’) feedback.

 

The Phase 2b trial SOOTHE trial was initiated at the end of 2020, with the first participant dosed in December 2020. In December 2021, we announced that the 50 mg and 200 mg BID doses of BLU-5937 in our SOOTHE trial for the treatment of RCC achieved statistical significance on the primary endpoint with 34% placebo-adjusted reduction in 24-hour cough frequency observed (p ≤ 0.005) at day 28. BLU-5937 was generally well-tolerated, at all doses and the treatment-emergent adverse events (“TEAEs”) profile was comparable to placebo. A dose response was observed between the 12.5 mg and 50 mg BID doses.

  

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In July 2020, we announced topline results from our Phase 2a RELIEF clinical trial of BLU-5937 that demonstrated proof-of-concept in RCC participants. Numerical differences in favor of BLU-5937 were observed in the primary endpoint of reduction in cough frequency. Clinically meaningful and statistically significant reductions in cough frequency were observed in two pre-specified sub-group analyses in participants with baseline awake cough frequency of ≥ 20 coughs/h (80% of trial participants) and ≥ 32 coughs/h (50% of trial participants). We also announced our intention to move forward with BLU-5937 in a Phase 2b trial.

 

We are also developing a BLU-5937 extended-release formulation for QD dosing. We plan to initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial investigating QD dosing with the extended-release formulation in the fourth quarter of 2022.

 

Our lead indication for BLU-5937 is RCC, defined as a cough lasting more than eight weeks that persists despite treatment of any contributing underlying conditions, and may have a significant adverse impact on patients’ quality of life. It is estimated that approximately 26 million adults in the United States suffer from chronic cough of which approximately 9 million patients are identified as having RCC. It is also estimated that approximately 9 million patients suffer from RCC in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain and Italy. Additionally, RCC is highly prevalent in Asia. Many patients report that their condition has a marked effect on their quality of life including sleep disruption, fatigue, urinary incontinence, and disruption of social interactions. Currently, there is no pharmacologic therapy approved specifically for the treatment of RCC outside of Japan and Switzerland. Available treatment options are limited and may have inadequate benefit and/or significant safety and tolerability issues. We believe that BLU-5937, if approved, may be adopted by physicians as an oral cough therapy in patients for whom cough hypersensitivity is the primary etiology.

 

CALM Phase 3 Clinical Program

 

On July 12, 2022, we announced a positive EOP-2 meeting with the FDA and the details of the CALM Phase 3 clinical program for BLU-5937 for the treatment of RCC. Subsequently, we received scientific advice from the EMA’s CHMP later on in July 2022.

 

The CALM Phase 3 clinical program will evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of BLU-5937 in approximately 675 adults with RCC for each of CALM-1 and CALM-2 trials. CALM-1 and CALM-2 will be placebo-controlled, parallel-arm trials randomized 1:1:1 with expected treatment arms of 25 mg BID, 50 mg BID and placebo. The primary endpoint of 24H cough frequency will be measured at 12-weeks for CALM-1 and 24-weeks for CALM-2. We have reached alignment with the FDA that the CALM Phase 3 clinical trials’ primary endpoint, similar to the successful SOOTHE Phase 2b clinical trial, can be assessed using the VitaloJAK cough monitoring system in a patient population enriched for baseline 24H cough frequency of ≥ 20 coughs/hour (“coughs/h”) (comparable to awake cough frequency of ≥ 25 coughs/h used in SOOTHE Phase 2b clinical trial). Secondary efficacy endpoints include Cough Severity using Visual Analogue Scale (“CS-VAS”), the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (“LCQ”) and Chronic Cough Diary (“CCD”). The CALM Phase 3 clinical program will also enroll participants with baseline 24H cough frequency < 20 coughs/h. A secondary efficacy endpoint will assess reduction in cough frequency in a broader population including the enriched population and additional participants with baseline 24H cough frequency below 20 coughs/h. CALM-1 will have a 40-week randomized extension period and an additional 24-week open label extension. CALM-2 will have a 28-week open label extension. The clinical trials are planned to run in parallel, and the Phase 3 CALM clinical program is expected to enroll its first patient in the fourth quarter of 2022. Topline data from CALM-1 are expected in the second half of 2024.

 

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SOOTHE Phase 2b Clinical Trial

 

On December 8, 2020, we announced that the first participant had been dosed in the Phase 2b SOOTHE clinical trial of BLU-5937. On December 13, 2021, we announced the positive topline data from the SOOTHE trial. The primary efficacy endpoint was statistically significant with a 34% placebo-adjusted reduction in 24-hour cough frequency observed at 50 mg and 200 mg BID doses.

 

Efficacy Results:

 

The SOOTHE clinical trial, which enrolled 249 participants with a baseline awake cough frequency of ≥ 25 per hour, demonstrated a clinically meaningful and statistically significant placebo-adjusted reduction in 24-hour cough frequency of 34% at the 50 mg and 200 mg BID dose levels of BLU-5937 (p ≤ 0.005) at day 28. The 12.5 mg BID dose demonstrated a statistical trend with 21% reduction in placebo-adjusted 24-hour cough frequency (p = 0.098) with a dose response observed between the 12.5 mg and 50 mg BID doses.

 

SOOTHE Primary Efficacy Endpoint

 

 

1 Geometric mean ratio of difference from baseline between BLU-5937 doses and placebo is estimated by back transformation of the LS mean difference. Percent treatment benefit over placebo in mean cough frequency is defined as 100x ((geom. LS mean Ratio)-1).

 

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SOOTHE Secondary Endpoints: Change from Baseline in Key Patient-Reported Outcomes

 

Patient Reported Outcomes (“PROs”) constituted secondary endpoints and included CS-VAS and LCQ. Even though SOOTHE was not powered to demonstrate statistical significance on the PROs, a clinically meaningful and nominally significant benefit of BLU-5937 was observed at multiple timepoints in the PROs.

 

 

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Responder analyses showed that, after 28 days of treatment, ≥ 60% of participants achieved a clinically meaningful ≥ 30% reduction in 24H cough frequency at the two higher doses, with ≥ 44% and ≥ 19% achieving responses of ≥ 50% and ≥ 70% reductions, respectively. Odds ratios numerically favored treatment over placebo for every dose of BLU-5937. The 50 and 200 mg treatment groups demonstrated a nominally significant likelihood (p < 0.01) to achieve a clinically meaningful response (≥ 30%) over placebo.

 

 

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Safety and Tolerability Results:

 

BLU-5937’s safety and tolerability data were consistent with previous trials, including the Phase 2a RELIEF trial. BLU-5937 was well-tolerated with low impact on taste perception. Taste-related side effects were reported in 4.8%, 6.5% and 4.8% of participants at 12.5 mg, 50 mg and 200 mg doses, respectively. No participant reported complete or partial taste loss and there were no discontinuations due to taste-related adverse events.

 

The TEAE profile was comparable to placebo. There were no treatment emergent serious adverse events reported in the trial.

 

Treatment Emergent Adverse Events (1)

 

n (%) Placebo (n=63) BLU-5937 12.5 mg BID (n=62) BLU-5937 50 mg BID (n=62) BLU-5937 200 mg BID (n=62) Subjects with >1 TEAE 22 (34.9%) 23 (37.1%) 13 (21.0%) 19 (30.6%) Subject with >1 TESAE 0 0 0 0 Subjects with TEAE leading to discontinuation, n(%) 1 (1.6%) 0 0 2(3.2%) Most Common TEAEs (>5% at any dose) Nausea 0 0 5 (8.1%) 2 (3.2%) Dysgeusia 0 3 (4.8%) 4 (6.5%) 3 (4.8%) UTI 0 3(4.8%) 0 0

 

 

Notes

 

TEAE reported with an incidence ≥5% in the exploratory population
(1)TEAEs leading to discontinuation, as deemed by investigator. Placebo: worsening of cough; BLU-5937 200 mg BID: worsening of cough and dry mouth

 

Incidence of Taste Disturbance Events

 

Main population Placebo (n=63) BLU-5937 12.5 mg BID (n=62) BLU-5937 50 mg BID (n=62) BLU-5937 200 mg BID (n=62) Taste alteration (dysgeusia) 0 3 (4.8%) 4 (6.5%) 3 (4.8%) Partial taste loss (hypogeusia) 0 0 0 0 Complete taste loss (ageusia) 0 0 0 0 Total taste distribution 0 3 (4.8%) 4 (6.5%) 3 (4.8%)

 

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SOOTHE Trial Design:

 

The SOOTHE trial was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, four-week, parallel-arm, placebo-controlled Phase 2b trial evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of three doses of BLU-5937 (12.5 mg, 50 mg and 200 mg BID) in 310 participants with RCC. Two hundred and forty-nine (249) participants with a baseline awake cough frequency of ≥ 25 coughs per hour were randomized across four treatment arms (1:1:1:1) evaluating the three active doses and placebo in the main trial. Treatment arms were stratified to balance the number of participants per treatment group with baseline awake cough frequency ≥ 45 coughs per hour across trial arms. The primary efficacy endpoint was the placebo-adjusted change in the 24-hour cough frequency from baseline to day 28 collected with a cough recorder. An exploratory group of an additional 61 participants with a baseline awake cough frequency of ≥ 10 and < 25 coughs per hour were randomized across two arms (1:1) evaluating one active dose (200 mg BID) and placebo to further investigate the effect of BLU-5937 in participants with lower cough frequency. Phase 2b clinical trial enrolled participants at 116 sites, of which approximately 50% were in the United States. The SOOTHE trial was initiated in December 2020.

 

On September 13, 2021, we announced positive findings from a preplanned administrative interim analysis of the ongoing Phase 2b SOOTHE trial of BLU-5937 in participants with RCC. Specifically, an independent statistical team reported that the predefined stringent probability threshold for clinical efficacy was met for at least one and up to all three doses of BLU-5937 tested. In addition, the analysis reported that limited taste-related adverse events were observed, consistent with previous trials of BLU-5937, and no serious adverse events were reported. The positive findings from the interim analysis of the Phase 2b SOOTHE trial enabled us to accelerate the planning of our Phase 3 clinical program while awaiting the Phase 2b SOOTHE clinical trial final results.

 

This administrative interim analysis was conducted when approximately 50% of the total planned participants in the main trial completed their 28-day treatment period. Doses were evaluated using predefined efficacy and probability thresholds, with the goal of narrowing down the optimal dose range to confidently prepare for the initiation of the Phase 3 program. The interim analysis was performed for administrative purposes and had no impact on the design or conduct of the SOOTHE trial.

  

On September 23, 2021, we announced that we had completed participant enrollment in the Phase 2b SOOTHE clinical trial of BLU-5937 in RCC.

 

On December 13, 2021, we announced the positive topline results of the Phase 2b SOOTHE clinical trial.

 

RELIEF Phase 2a Clinical Trial

 

In July 2020, we announced topline results from our Phase 2a RELIEF clinical trial of BLU-5937 that demonstrated proof-of-concept in RCC participants. Numerical differences in favor of BLU-5937 were observed in the primary endpoint of reduction in cough frequency. The RELIEF trial did not achieve statistical significance for the primary endpoint of reduction in placebo-adjusted awake cough frequency at any dose tested in the intent to treat population; however, clinically meaningful and statistically significant reductions in cough frequency were observed in two pre-specified sub-group analyses, including participants with baseline awake cough frequency of ≥ 20 coughs per hour (representing 80% of total trial participants) and ≥ 32 coughs per hour (representing 50% of total trial participants), linking higher baseline cough frequency with improved treatment benefit. In the RELIEF trial, BLU-5937 was generally well-tolerated and showed an adverse event profile comparable to placebo. The taste disturbance adverse events were reported in 10% or less of the participants. Additionally, no complete loss of taste was observed at any dose, no severe taste adverse event was reported and no dropouts due to taste disturbance occurred.

 

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Development of a QD Formulation

 

We have initiated activities in preparation for the development of a QD formulation for BLU-5937 using an extended-release tablet formulation. We are developing a QD formulation because BLU-5937 has exhibited favorable physical chemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics, including high solubility and permeability, good absorption in the small and large intestine, linear pharmacokinetic profile, no interaction with food and a low predicted therapeutic dose. A physiological based pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation study has been completed and we have initiated the development of BLU-5937 QD formulation prototypes. We plan to initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial investigating a QD, extended-release formulation of BLU-5937 in the fourth quarter of 2022.

 

Competitive Landscape

 

In addition to BELLUS Health, other companies are developing P2X3 antagonist product candidates for the treatment of RCC, including Merck & Co. (“Merck”) and Shionogi & Co., Ltd (“Shionogi”). The positive Phase 2b SOOTHE results position BLU-5937 as a potential best-in-class product candidate in the P2X3 class in terms of its clinical activity and tolerability profile, if confirmed in Phase 3 development and approved. Additionally, the greater selectivity for P2X3 over P2X2/3 observed for our product candidate, BLU-5937, may contribute to supporting a favorable clinical and commercial profile.

 

The table below shows the selectivity, stage of development and dosing regimen of the different P2X3 product candidates currently in development:

 

 

 

1. Limited head to head studies have been conducted; data presented is derived from company specific disclosures.

2. Ford et al. (2013) FASEB J. 27: 887.5-887.5.

3. Davenport et al. (2021) Sci Rep 6;11(1):19877.

4. Kai et al. 2020 Abstract presented at: ACS Fall 2020 Virtual & Meeting Exposition; August 17-20, 2020.

 

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Merck announced in March of 2020 that the 45 mg BID dose MK-7264 (gefapixant) had reached statistical significance on the primary efficacy endpoint in both the Phase 3 trials, COUGH-1 and COUGH-2 and that the 15 mg BID dose had not achieved statistical significance in either trial. Pursuant to this announcement, in September 2020 at the European Respiratory Society (“ERS”) International conference, Merck presented these results in further detail. The 45 mg BID dose of gefapixant achieved a statistically significant result on its primary endpoint of placebo-adjusted reduction in 24-hour cough frequency (18% in the 12-week COUGH-1 trial and 16% in the 24-week COUGH-2 trial) but showed significant rates of taste disturbance adverse events (58% and 69% in the COUGH-1 and COUGH-2, respectively). In March 2021, Merck announced that the FDA had accepted gefapixant NDA for review. In January 2022, Merck announced that the Japan Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare granted regulatory approval for gefapixant 45 mg tablets for the treatment of adults with RCC. Additionally, Merck reported that the FDA issued a Complete Response Letter (“CRL”), which included the need for additional analyses associated with “measurement of efficacy”. Merck further clarified in February 2022 that the CRL was not related to the safety of gefapixant, but to an algorithm and underlying methodology used by the audio recording device to assess efficacy. In May 2022, Gefapixant was approved in Switzerland. In August 2022, Merck announced that it is performing additional analyses and anticipates submitting this information to the FDA in the first half of 2023 in response to the CRL. Merck also reported that the review period in the EU had been extended pending the receipt of additional information and it plans to submit the information to the EMA in the first half of 2023. Outside of Japan and Switzerland, gefapixant remains an investigational treatment under review by regulatory authorities, such as the EMA.

 

At the American Thoracic Society International Conference held in August 2020, Bayer announced topline results from its Phase 2a clinical trial evaluating BAY 1817080 (eliapixant), which demonstrated that higher doses of Bayer’s P2X3 antagonist significantly reduced 24-hour cough counts in participants with RCC (ranging from 15% to 25% cough reduction compared to placebo) and cough severity. Taste disturbance adverse events were dose-dependent and reported by 5% to 21% of participants receiving eliapixant. In October 2020, Bayer initiated a Phase 2b clinical trial evaluating three doses of a new formulation of eliapixant in 310 RCC participants. Bayer disclosed on August 3, 2021 that the trial had met its primary endpoint. In August 2021 at the ERS Annual Congress, Bayer presented the efficacy observed in the per-protocol population and the tolerability observed in the safety population. The placebo-adjusted relative changes in 24-hour cough frequency were -12%, -27% and -18% with a 24-hour cough frequency at baseline of 30.3, 31.7 and 21.5 coughs/h for 25 mg, 75 mg and 150 mg BID doses, respectively. Taste disturbances reported for the 25 mg, 75 mg and 150 mg BID doses and placebo groups in the safety analysis population were respectively 4%, 13%, 24% and 4%. Adverse event related discontinuations were 8%. The communication reported that one drug-related serious adverse event was observed in the 150 mg arm during the trial, but Bayer did not disclose its nature. Bayer also announced that Phase 3 development was warranted. On February 4, 2022, Evotec, Bayer’s partner, announced that it had been informed by Bayer about the decision to discontinue the development of eliapixant. Following a review of the available data, Bayer concluded that the overall benefit no longer outweighed the risk in the actively pursued indications. As a consequence of Bayer’s decision, Evotec announced that it has regained the rights to all P2X3 assets. The company indicated that it would evaluate the underlying data as soon as they are made available and would assess all options. Subsequently, it was announced in May 2022 at the American Thoracic Society International Conference that the program had been discontinued by Bayer due to a report of drug-induced liver injury.

 

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Shionogi announced topline results of its Phase 2a clinical trial of S-600918 (sivopixant) in participants with RCC at the ERS International Congress in October 2019, which included a placebo-adjusted reduction in 24-hour cough frequency of 32% (p=0.055) and a rate of 6.5% of taste disturbance adverse events. The mean cough per hour frequency at baseline was 56. At the 2020 ERS International Congress, Shionogi reported that it observed an interaction between baseline cough frequency and treatment effect in its Phase 2a clinical trial; this prompted the utilization of a minimal cough frequency threshold as an inclusion criterion in the Phase 2b clinical trial of sivopixant. On September 29, 2021, Shionogi announced that the primary endpoint of placebo adjusted change in 24-hour cough frequency in its Phase 2b clinical trial of sivopixant was not met at any dose in the full analysis set (+13%, -2% and -12% for 50 mg, 150 mg and 300 mg QD, respectively). Post-hoc analysis of participants with a 24-hour cough frequency ≥ 10 or more coughs/h at baseline demonstrated 23% reduction in placebo-adjusted cough frequency for 300 mg QD. Taste related adverse events reported for the 50 mg, 150 mg, 300 mg and placebo groups in the safety analysis population were 2%, 14% and 33% and 2.9%, respectively. Shionogi has indicated that it plans to discuss dose selection and Phase 3 clinical trial design at an upcoming EOP-2 meeting with the FDA. In a conference call in January 2022, Shionogi mentioned in its presentation that it is preparing for a Phase 3 clinical trial.

 

Market Opportunity in RCC

 

According to the 2018 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, across the U.S. in 2018, cough was the reason for 18.5 million in-office physician consultations and 5 million emergency visits.

 

We estimate that 10% of the adult population in developed countries suffer from chronic cough, including the United States, nations in the European Union and the United Kingdom. This represents approximately 26 million patients with chronic cough in the United States alone.

 

We estimate that approximately 30% of chronic cough patients, or approximately 9 million patients in the U.S., are uncontrolled or have RCC, which is the expected addressable patient population for BLU-5937. It is also estimated that approximately 9 million patients suffer from RCC in the EU5 countries. RCC is also prevalent in Asia. RCC patients continue to cough despite treatment for potential underlying causes of their cough or have a cough that is unexplained. We estimate that approximately one-third, or approximately 3 million, of these RCC patients in the U.S. have been coughing for over a year, a key inclusion criteria in current RCC clinical trials, including our Phase 2a RELIEF clinical trial and Phase 2b SOOTHE clinical trial of BLU-5937. Many patients report that their condition has a marked effect on their quality of life including sleep disruption, fatigue, urinary incontinence, and disruption of social interactions. Currently, there is no pharmacological therapy approved specifically for the treatment of RCC outside of Japan and Switzerland. Available treatment options outside of Japan and Switzerland are limited and may have inadequate benefit and/or significant safety and tolerability issues. We believe that BLU-5937, if approved, may be adopted by physicians as an oral cough therapy in patients for whom cough-hypersensitivity is the primary etiology.

 

Supporting Non-Clinical and Clinical Pharmacology Activities

 

Non-clinical toxicology studies and clinical pharmacology studies to support an anticipated NDA filing for RCC are ongoing or planned.

 

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Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls

 

We have a primary supply chain in place with the capacity to produce the required clinical supplies to support a Phase 3 clinical program in RCC and commercial supplies for a potential launch, if BLU-5937 is approved. We continue to work on activities associated with manufacturing process optimization and upscaling to support a potential commercial launch.

 

BLU-5937 in Other P2X3 Hypersensitization-Related Disorders

 

We believe the results of our Phase 2b SOOTHE clinical trial further validate the role of P2X3 in cough hypersensitivity. We intend to evaluate potential opportunities to study BLU-5937 in additional cough indications where hypersensitivity plays an important role.

 

In addition to RCC, the mechanism of action of BLU-5937 may also have broad therapeutic applicability across other afferent hypersensitization-related disorders, enabling us to consider BLU-5937 as a potential treatment for development in a number of other indications. Consequently, we are exploring how P2X3 activation can contribute to irritation and pain, and whether inhibition of P2X3 receptors can help treat these afferent hypersensitization-related disorders.

 

Intellectual Property

 

Our BLU-5937 program is protected by a comprehensive patent estate comprised of issued and allowed patents, as well as pending patent applications. We have secured composition of matter patent protection for BLU-5937 in all major pharmaceutical markets, including the United States of America, Europe, Japan and China, all with an expiration date of 2034. Under certain circumstances, such patent term may be extended for up to five years in certain jurisdictions such as the United States, Europe and Japan. In addition, we have secured methods of use patent protection in the United States for avoiding loss of taste response while treating a chronic cough patient through treatment with BLU-5937, expiring in 2038. Patent applications with similarly broad claims are currently pending in other industrialized nations We own 100% of the intellectual property estate covering BLU-5937 and its use for the treatment of chronic cough.

 

July 2022 Equity Offering

 

In July 2022, we raised total gross proceeds of $176.0 million by issuing a total of 19,021,622 common shares in the United States and in Canada (the “2022 Offering”).

 

More specifically, on July 18, 2022, we closed an equity offering, issuing 16,540,541 common shares from treasury at a price of $9.25 per share for gross proceeds of $153.0 million. On July 28, 2022, the underwriters of the equity offering exercised their option to purchase additional common shares (over-allotment option), resulting in the issuance of an additional 2,481,081 common shares from treasury at a price of $9.25 per share, for additional gross proceeds of $23.0 million. We intend to use the net proceeds of the 2022 Offering, amounting to approximately $164.5 million, primarily to fund BLU-5937 research and development activities, working capital needs and other general corporate purposes.

 

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Prior to the launch of the 2022 Offering, we terminated the “at-the-market” (“ATM”) sales agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) entered in to with Jefferies LLC on December 23, 2020, Refer to the Financial Condition section for details of the ATM Sales Agreement.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

For the three-month period ended June 30, 2022, net loss amounted to $18,776,000 ($0.18 per share), compared to $17,828,000 ($0.23 per share) for the corresponding period the previous year. For the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, net loss amounted to $33,128,000 ($0.31 per share), compared to $33,579,000 ($0.43 per share) for the corresponding period the previous year.

 

Research and development expenses, net of research tax credits, amounted to $12,460,000 for the three-month period ended June 30, 2022 ($23,714,000 for the six-month period), compared to $15,201,000 for the corresponding period the previous year ($27,649,000 for the six-month period), a decrease of $2.7 million or 18% year over year (decrease of $3.9 million or 14% year over year for the six-month period). The decrease in research and development expenses is primarily attributable to the decrease in external R&D spend as we are transitioning from our Phase 2b SOOTHE clinical trial and are in the planning stage of our Phase 3 clinical program, which is expected to be initiated in the fourth quarter of 2022. The decrease is partially offset by higher expenses due to our increased workforce to support the next steps in our development plans for BLU-5937 as well as higher stock-based compensation expense in relation to our stock option plan.

 

General and administrative expenses amounted to $5,379,000 for the three-month period ended June 30, 2022 ($9,429,000 for the six-month period), compared to $2,805,000 for the corresponding period the previous year ($6,275,000 for the six-month period), an increase of $2.6 million or 92% year over year (increase of $3.2 million or 50% year over year for the six-month period). The increase is mainly attributable to higher stock-based compensation expense in relation to our deferred share unit plan and our stock option plan, as well as to higher external G&A expenses.

 

Net finance costs amounted to $900,000 for the three-month period ended June 30, 2022 (net finance income of $73,000 for the six-month period), compared to a net finance income of $174,000 for the corresponding period the previous year (net finance income of $337,000 for the six-month period). The increase in net finance costs for the three-month period is mainly attributable to an increase in foreign exchange loss of $1,014,000 resulting from the conversion in US dollars of our net monetary assets denominated in Canadian dollars during the period.

 

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Quarterly Results (Unaudited)

(in thousands of dollars, except per share data)

 

    2022     2022     2021     2021     2021     2021     2020     2020  
    Q2     Q1     Q4     Q3     Q2     Q1     Q4     Q3  
Revenues   $ 4     $ 4     $ 4     $ 4     $ 4     $ 4     $ 4     $ 3  
                                                                 
Expenses:                                                                
Research and development, net     12,460       11,254       12,334       19,054       15,201       12,448       5,017       5,796  
General and administrative     5,379       4,050       4,167       3,821       2,805       3,470       3,078       456  
Total operating expenses     17,839       15,304       16,501       22,875       18,006       15,918       8,095       6,252  
Operating loss     (17,835 )     (15,300 )     (16,497 )     (22,871 )     (18,002 )     (15,914 )     (8,091 )     (6,249 )
                                                                 
Net finance (costs) income     (900 )     973       1,534       (10 )     174       163       597       540  
Loss before income taxes     (18,735 )     (14,327 )     (14,963 )     (22,881 )     (17,828 )     (15,751 )     (7,494 )     (5,709 )
                                                                 
Income taxes     41       25       (199 )     -       -       -       -       -  
Net loss   $ (18,776 )   $ (14,352 )   $ (14,764 )   $ (22,881 )   $ (17,828 )   $ (15,751 )   $ (7,494 )   $ (5,709 )

 

The variation of the net loss of a quarter compared to the corresponding quarter of the previous year are explained by the elements in the following paragraph.

 

The decrease in net loss for the second and first quarter of 2022 is primarily attributable to lower research and development expenses. The increase in net loss for the fourth and third quarters of 2021 is primarily attributable to higher research and development expenses as well as to a higher stock-based compensation expense related to our deferred share unit plan.

 

Related Party Transactions

 

Dr. Francesco Bellini is the Chairman of our Board of Directors and provides ongoing advisory services under the terms of a consulting and services agreement between us and Picchio International Inc. (“Picchio International”), wholly-owned by Dr. Francesco Bellini and his spouse. Picchio International receives a monthly fee of CAD$20,833, plus the reimbursement of applicable expenses for services rendered under the agreement. The agreement has a one-year term renewable for successive one-year terms. We have recorded fees and expenses of $75,000 and $150,000 (CAD$95,000 and CAD$190,000) and $77,000 and $152,000 (CAD$95,000 and CAD$190,000) under the consulting and services agreement for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

 

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FINANCIAL CONDITION

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As at June 30, 2022, we had available cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaling $220,145,000 compared to $248,806,000 as at December 31, 2021 (including the net proceeds from the 2022 Offering, cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments amounted to approximately $384,598,000 as at June 30, 2022 on a proforma basis). For the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, the net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments amounted to $28,661,000, compared to $25,927,000 for the corresponding period of the previous year. The net decrease for the six-month period ended June 30, 2022 is primarily attributable to funds used to finance our operating activities, mainly the research and development activities associated with our product candidate BLU-5937.

 

Based on management’s estimate and current level of operations, we believe that our current cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, together with the proceeds from the 2022 Offering, are projected to be sufficient to fund our Phase 3 program and extend our runway to the second half of 2025 and through topline results of both CALM-1 and CALM-2 trials. We may need to raise additional capital to fund our operations, develop BLU-5937 and prepare for commercialization.

 

In July 2022, we raised total gross proceeds of $175,950,000 from the 2022 Offering by issuing a total of 19,021,622 common shares at a price of $9.25 per share including the exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase 2,481,081 common shares. Net proceeds from the 2022 Offering amount to approximately $164,453,000. We intend to use the net proceeds from the 2022 Offering primarily to fund BLU-5937 research and development activities, working capital needs and other general corporate purposes.

 

In December 2021, we raised total gross proceeds of $224,000,000 from the 2021 Offering by issuing a total of 28,000,000 common shares at a price of $8 per share including the partial exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase 3,000,000 common shares. Net proceeds from the 2021 Offering amounted to $209,729,000. We intend to use the net proceeds of the 2021 Offering primarily to fund research and development activities, general and administrative expenses, working capital needs and other general corporate purposes.

 

The use of proceeds presented in our prospectus supplements dated December 14, 2021 (2021 Prospectus Supplement) and July 13, 2022 (2022 Prospectus Supplement) did not include funds from the exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option. Taking into consideration these additional funds, we intend to use the net proceeds of the 2021 Offering and 2022 Offering for the purposes and in the amounts indicated below.

 

   As per 2021 and 2022
Prospectus Supplements
without overallotment options
   As at August 10, 2022
including overallotment
options
 
BLU-5937 clinical trials in chronic cough   $217.9 million   $238.4 million 
Manufacturing, formulation and scale-up  $42.1 million   $51.8 million 
Other BLU-5937 project costs  $36.5 million   $42.4 million 
Working capital and other general administration costs  $ 34.4 million   $ 41.5 million 

 

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As at June 30, 2022, we have not used any of the 2021 and 2022 Offering net proceeds. For additional details regarding the development of BLU-5937, see “Business Section” – “Our Pipeline” in this MD&A.

 

On December 23, 2020, we entered into an “at-the-market” (“ATM”) sales agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with Jefferies LLC ("Jefferies") pursuant to which we could from time to time sell through at-the-market distributions with Jefferies acting as sales agent, our common shares for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $50 million, including sales made directly on the Nasdaq or on any other existing trading market for the common shares in the United States. On July 13, 2022, prior to the 2022 Offering, we terminated the Sales Agreement. We did not make any sales of common shares under the Sale Agreement.

 

During the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, we purchased short-term investments with initial maturities greater than three months and less than a year for an aggregate amount of $42,503,000 and redeemed at maturity or sold short-term investments for an aggregate amount of $42,812,000. We did not sell nor redeem at maturity short-term investments with initial maturities greater than three months and less than a year in 2021.

 

There has been no significant change to our contractual obligations since December 31, 2021 other than in the ordinary course of business. As at June 30, 2022, we had commitments for expenditures related to contracts for research and development activities of approximately $19,535,000 (approximately $15,153,000 as at December 31, 2021), of which $9,041,000 is expected to be payable in 2022, $9,145,000 in 2023 and $1,349,000 in 2024.

 

We are an “emerging growth company” as defined in the JOBS Act. As of June 30, 2022, the market value of our common shares held by non-affiliates exceeded US$700 million, and as a result, as of January 1, 2023, we will no longer qualify as an emerging growth company. For so long as we remain an emerging growth company, we are permitted to and intend to rely upon exemptions from certain disclosure requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies. Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (2002), as amended, we are required to furnish a report by our management on our internal control over financial reporting (“ICFR”), which, after we are no longer an emerging growth company, must be accompanied by an attestation report on ICFR issued by our independent registered public accounting firm. We will require an attestation report on ICFR for the year ended December 31, 2022.

 

21

 

 

On March 16, 2021, a Company stockholder, Carl D. Cachia (“Plaintiff”), filed a complaint against the Company and certain of its executive officers alleging claims under provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”). On September 17, 2021, Plaintiff filed an amended class action complaint, individually and on behalf of all persons who purchased or otherwise acquired Company securities between September 5, 2019 and July 6, 2020, against the Company, certain of its executive officers, the principal investigator of the Company’s Phase 2a RELIEF trial, and the underwriters of the Company’s initial public offering in September 2019. The amended class action complaint alleges claims under the Exchange Act and the Securities Act of 1933 relating to disclosures concerning the Company’s Phase 2a RELIEF trial, and seeks compensatory damages, pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, as well as attorneys’ fees, expert fees, and any other reasonable costs and expenses. On November 16, 2021, Plaintiff stipulated to dismissal of all claims against the underwriters without prejudice. Also on November 16, 2021, the Company and the named executive officers moved to dismiss the amended complaint, which motion is pending. On January 7, 2022, the principal investigator of the Company’s Phase 2a RELIEF trial also moved to dismiss the amended complaint, which motion is pending. On June 17, 2022, Plaintiff filed a motion for leave to amend his complaint, which all remaining defendants opposed, and which remains pending.

 

On July 6, 2022, a Company stockholder, Jason Gallanti (the “Canadian Plaintiff”), filed a statement of claim before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice against the Company alleging negligent misrepresentation and claims under the Ontario Securities Act (“OSA”) and equivalent provincial securities legislation relating to disclosures concerning the Company's Phase 2a RELIEF trial. The Canadian Plaintiff seeks certification of the action as a class proceeding on behalf of those who purchased the Company's stock on the TSX, leave to pursue statutory claims under the OSA, compensatory damages, prejudgment and post-judgment interest, and costs of the action.

 

No provision has been made in the financial statements for the resolution of the above matters. Resolution of these matters could have an effect on our financial statements in the period that a determination is made, however, in management’s opinion, given the early stage of these matters, the final resolution is not currently projected to have a material adverse effect on our financial position.

 

During the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, we granted 3,555,000 stock options, 468,054 stock options were exercised, and 56,000 stock options were forfeited.

 

As at August 10, 2022, we had 125,792,916 common shares outstanding and 136,798,695 common shares on a fully diluted basis, including 11,005,779 stock options granted under the stock option plan.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

 

The preparation of our condensed consolidated interim financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. The reported amounts and note disclosures reflect management’s best estimate of the most probable set of economic conditions and planned course of actions. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

 

In preparing these condensed consolidated interim financial statements, the significant judgements made by management in applying our accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty were the same as those applied to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021.

 

Refer to the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021 for discussions on our accounting policies and estimates that are most important in assessing, understanding and evaluating our consolidated financial statements. Change in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

22

 

 

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

The accounting policies and basis of measurement applied in our condensed consolidated interim financial statements as at June 30, 2022 are the same as those applied in our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021.

 

CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING (ICFR)

 

There have been no changes in our ICFR that occurred during the period beginning January 1, 2022 and ended June 30, 2022 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our ICFR.

 

RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

 

We are a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that operates in an industry that is dependent on a number of factors that include the capacity to raise additional capital on reasonable terms, obtain positive results of clinical trials, obtain positive results of clinical trials without serious adverse or inappropriate side effects, and obtain market acceptance of its product. An investment in our common shares is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. An investor should carefully consider the risks described in our AIF and our annual report on Form 40-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as our other public filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and the United States Securities and Exchange Commission for further risk factors that might affect us and our business before investing in our common shares. If any of such described risks occur, or if others occur, our business, operating results and financial condition could be seriously harmed, and investors may lose a significant proportion of their investment. There are important risks which management believes could impact our business. For information on risks and uncertainties, please refer to the “Risk Factors” section of our most recent AIF filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and included in the annual report on exhibit 99.3 to Form 40-F filed on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar and our other public filings.

 

23

 

Exhibit 99.3

 

FORM 52-109F2

CERTIFICATION OF INTERIM FILINGS

FULL CERTIFICATE

 

I, Roberto Bellini, President and Chief Executive Officer of BELLUS Health Inc., certify the following:

 

1.            Review: I have reviewed the interim financial report and interim MD&A (together, the “interim filings”) of BELLUS Health Inc. (the “issuer”) for the interim period ended June 30, 2022.

 

2.            No misrepresentations: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, with respect to the period covered by the interim filings.

 

3.            Fair presentation: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim financial report together with the other financial information included in the interim filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, financial performance and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date of and for the periods presented in the interim filings.

 

4.            Responsibility: The issuer’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), as those terms are defined in Regulation 52-109 respecting Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings (c. V-1.1, r. 27), for the issuer.

 

5.            Design: Subject to the limitations, if any, described in paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3, the issuer’s other certifying officer(s) and I have, as at the end of the period covered by the interim filings

 

(a)            designed DC&P, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance that

 

(i)            material information relating to the issuer is made known to us by others, particularly during the period in which the interim filings are being prepared; and

 

(ii)            information required to be disclosed by the issuer in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted by it under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation; and

 

(b)            designed ICFR, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuer’s GAAP.

 

5.1            Control framework: The control framework the issuer’s other certifying officer(s) and I used to design the issuer’s ICFR is based on the framework established in the Internal Control – Integrated Framework by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

 

5.2            ICFR – material weakness relating to design: N/A

 

 

 

 

5.3            Limitation on scope of design: N/A

 

6.            Reporting changes in ICFR: The issuer has disclosed in its interim MD&A any change in the issuer’s ICFR that occurred during the period beginning on April 1, 2022 and ended on June 30, 2022 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer’s ICFR.

 

Date: August 10, 2022.

 

 

/s/ Roberto Bellini  
Roberto Bellini  
President and Chief Executive Officer  

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.4

 

FORM 52-109F2

CERTIFICATION OF INTERIM FILINGS

FULL CERTIFICATE

 

I, Ramzi Benamar, Chief Financial Officer of BELLUS Health Inc., certify the following:

 

1.            Review: I have reviewed the interim financial report and interim MD&A (together, the “interim filings”) of BELLUS Health Inc. (the “issuer”) for the interim period ended June 30, 2022.

 

2.            No misrepresentations: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, with respect to the period covered by the interim filings.

 

3.            Fair presentation: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim financial report together with the other financial information included in the interim filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, financial performance and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date of and for the periods presented in the interim filings.

 

4.            Responsibility: The issuer’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), as those terms are defined in Regulation 52-109 respecting Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings (c. V-1.1, r. 27), for the issuer.

 

5.            Design: Subject to the limitations, if any, described in paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3, the issuer’s other certifying officer(s) and I have, as at the end of the period covered by the interim filings

 

(a)            designed DC&P, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance that

 

(i)            material information relating to the issuer is made known to us by others, particularly during the period in which the interim filings are being prepared; and

 

(ii)            information required to be disclosed by the issuer in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted by it under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation; and

 

(b)            designed ICFR, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuer’s GAAP.

 

5.1            Control framework: The control framework the issuer’s other certifying officer(s) and I used to design the issuer’s ICFR is based on the framework established in the Internal Control – Integrated Framework by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

 

 

 

 

5.2            ICFR – material weakness relating to design: N/A

 

5.3            Limitation on scope of design: N/A

 

6.            Reporting changes in ICFR: The issuer has disclosed in its interim MD&A any change in the issuer’s ICFR that occurred during the period beginning on April 1, 2022 and ended on June 30, 2022 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer’s ICFR.

 

Date: August 10, 2022.

 

 

/s/ Ramzi Benamar  
Ramzi Benamar  
Chief Financial Officer