UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549


FORM 8-K


CURRENT REPORT

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): August 6, 2019

Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
001-38599
82-3827296
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
(Commission File Number)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

30 Technology Drive
Warren, NJ 07059
(908) 941-1900
(Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Registrant’s Principal Executive Offices)

Not Applicable
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
Title of each class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which
registered
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share
AQST
Nasdaq Global Market

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§ 230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§ 240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company ☒

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐



Item 2.02
Results of Operations and Financial Condition

On August 6, 2019, Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc. (the “Company”) issued a press release announcing its financial results for the three and six months period ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively. A copy of such press release and the attached financial schedules are attached as Exhibit 99.1 to this report and incorporated into this Item 2.02 by reference.

The information in this Item 2.02 (including Exhibit 99.1) is being furnished pursuant to Item 2.02 and shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall it be deemed to be incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in any such filing.

Item 7.01
Other Events.

On August 6, 2019, the Company issued a press release announcing topline results from LibervantTM (Diazepam) Buccal Film Single Dose Crossover Study.  A copy of such press release is attached as Exhibit 99.2 to this report and incorporated into this Item 7.01 by reference.

The information in this Item 7.01 (including Exhibit 99.2) is being furnished pursuant to Item 7.01 and shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall it be deemed to be incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in any such filing.

Item 9.01
Financial Statements and Exhibits

(d) Exhibits.

Exhibit Number
 
Description
     
 
Press Release, dated August 6, 2019, announcing financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
 
Press Release, dated August 6, 2019, announcing topline results from LibervantTM (Diazepam) Buccal Film Single Dose Crossover Study.


SIGNATURE

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

Dated: August 6, 2019
Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc.
     
 
By:
/s/ John T. Maxwell
   
Name: John T. Maxwell
   
Title: Chief Financial Officer




Exhibit 99.1
 
 
Aquestive Therapeutics Reports Second Quarter 2019 Financial Results and Recent Business Highlights


Reported positive topline data from single dose crossover pharmacokinetic (PK) trial for Libervant™ (diazepam) Buccal Film and expects to complete its rolling New Drug Application (NDA) submission in fourth quarter 2019

Reported a 250% increase in Sympazan® shipments compared to the end of the first quarter (Q1)

Completed debt refinancing in July 2019, with a $100 million total facility that provided $70 million at closing and an opportunity for up to an additional $30 million subject to certain conditions

Raises full year guidance for Suboxone-related manufacturing revenue

Hosts investment community conference call at 8:00 a.m. ET on August 7, 2019

Warren, NJ, August 6, 2019 – Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: AQST), a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing differentiated products that meet patients’ unmet needs and solve therapeutic problems, today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2019 and provided an update on recent developments in its business.

“We made significant progress across our programs in recent months. Most importantly, for Libervant, based on preliminary analysis we reported positive topline data from the recently completed crossover study that confirms our dosing algorithm,” said Keith J. Kendall, Chief Executive Officer of Aquestive. “This is an exciting result for Aquestive. Libervant is an important driver of shareholder value and we are pleased that we successfully completed the final clinical step requested by the FDA. We look forward to moving as quickly as possible to complete our NDA filing for Libervant expected later this year.”

Portfolio and Pipeline Update
Aquestive is building a portfolio of differentiated medicines based on its proprietary PharmFilm® technology to overcome shortfalls in medication design and other barriers patients face to using their prescribed medications. The Company’s late stage proprietary products are initially focused on CNS conditions, and other conditions with high unmet need.


The Company reported positive topline data from the single dose crossover study, which compared the pharmacokinetic responses in a common set of patients receiving a dose of LibervantTM (diazepam) Buccal Film and a dose of diazepam rectal gel. Preliminary analyses show that the overall diazepam exposure achieved from the buccal film was the same as for gel based on the patient dosing algorithm and there was no difference between buccal film and gel in the effect of enzyme induction from taking concurrent anti-epileptic medications. Additionally, there were no instances of low or non-responders observed after Libervant administration, while over 10% of those same patients failed to achieve adequate exposure following gel administration.
 

The rolling NDA submission for Libervant commenced in the second quarter 2019 and we expect it to  be completed in in the fourth quarter 2019. Libervant has the potential to be the first oral therapy approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the management of seizure clusters or breakthrough seizures in the population of 1.2 million refractory epilepsy patients.
 


The launch of Sympazan® (clobazam) Oral Film for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) in patients two years and older, with the potential we believe has the potential to reach $65 million in peak net revenue within 5 years and driving market understanding about the value of Aquestive’s PharmFilm® technology. Sympazan shipment volume has grown over 250% since the end of the first quarter and the prescribing base has grown over 125%, with over 80% of prescribers writing multiple scripts.
 

An optimized product formulation of AQST-108, a sublingual film formulation of epinephrine for the treatment of anaphylaxis and severe allergic reactions, is being evaluated in a Phase I Proof of Concept study.  Data from this trial is expected in late third quarter 2019.
 

Suboxone® and the authorized generic buprenorphine-naloxone film continue to retain approximately 75% of the market for film treatments as of July 2019, despite the at risk launches of several generic products in the U.S. Aquestive has a strong order book through the first ten months of 2019, based on the slow erosion of brand market share, strong uptake of the authorized generic, and trusted product quality.
 
Completion of Debt Refinancing
In July 2019, Aquestive completed a $100 million facility of 12.5% Senior Secured Notes due in June 2025 and warrants. Aquestive refinanced its existing credit facility at closing with $70 million of Notes issued, netting $15 million of incremental capital, and has an opportunity to issue up to $30 million of additional Notes under certain conditions. The financing was led by Madryn Asset Management, LP ("Madryn"), with participation by other institutional investors. Details related to this financing can be found in Form 8-K filed by the Company on July 15, 2019.

Second Quarter 2019 Financial Results
Total revenues were $11.1 million in the second quarter 2019, compared to $13.9 million reported for the second quarter 2018. This year-over-year decrease reflected a decline in license fees, mostly due to the suspension of license fees related to Suboxone that are pending the outcome of patent litigation against the generics, which launched at risk, partially offset by higher revenue as a result of the launch of Sympazan in late 2018.

Aquestive’s net loss for the second quarter 2019 was $20.5 million, or $0.82 loss per share. The net loss for the second quarter 2018 was $36.5 million. The decrease in year-over-year net loss in the second quarter 2019 was driven primarily by lower one-time expenses related to the IPO incurred in the second quarter of 2018, offset by higher investments in commercialization expenses from the launch of Sympazan, higher litigation costs related to the generics in the market at-risk, and higher costs associated with becoming a public company in the second quarter 2019 period compared to the same period in 2018.

2019 Outlook
Aquestive is revising its full year guidance and financial outlook for 2019. The Company expects:


Total revenues of $38 million to $45 million, including Suboxone and Sandoz authorized generic manufacturing revenue of $29 million to $32 million;

Non-GAAP gross margins of 67% to 69% on total revenues;

Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA loss of $50 million to $52 million; and

Cash burn of approximately $60 to $65 million after considering non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA, net interest expense and principal paid on debt prior to refinancing.


Today’s Conference Call and Webcast Reminder
The management team will host an investment community conference call on August 7, 2019, at 8:00 a.m. EDT. Investors and analysts may participate in the conference call by dialing (866) 417-5886 from the U.S. and (409) 217-8235 internationally, followed by the conference ID: 9956838.

There will also be a simultaneous, live webcast available on the Investors section of the Company’s website at https://investors.aquestive.com/events-and-presentations. The recorded webcast will be available on that same link approximately two hours after the completion of the call and will be archived for 30 days.

About Aquestive Therapeutics
Aquestive Therapeutics is a specialty pharmaceutical company that applies innovative technology to solve therapeutic problems and improve medicines for patients. Aquestive is advancing a late-stage proprietary product pipeline to treat CNS conditions and provide alternatives to invasively-administered standard of care therapies. The Company also collaborates with other pharmaceutical companies to bring new molecules to market using proprietary, best in class technologies, like PharmFilm®, and has proven capabilities for drug development and commercialization.

Non-GAAP Financial Information
This press release and our webcast earnings call regarding our  quarterly financial results contains financial measures that do not comply with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), such as Adjusted EBITDA, non-GAAP gross margins, non-GAAP costs and expenses, and non-GAAP net income (loss), because such measures exclude, as applicable, share-based compensation, interest expense, interest income, depreciation, amortization, and income taxes.

Specifically, the Company adjusts net income (loss) for one-time IPO related expenditures; change in fair value of warrants; for recurring non-cash expenditures, including share compensation expenses – post-IPO; depreciation and amortization; and for interest expense, interest income and income taxes, with a result of Adjusted EBITDA.  Similarly, manufacturing and supply expense, research and development expense, and selling, general and administrative expense were adjusted for the recurring non-cash expenditures of share compensation expenses – post-IPO and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA and these non-GAAP expense categories are used as a supplement to the corresponding GAAP measures to provide additional insight regarding the Company’s ongoing operating performance.

These measures supplement the Company’s financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP. Aquestive management uses these measures to analyze its financial results, its future manufacturing and supply expenses, gross margins, research and development expense and selling, general and administrative expense and to help make managerial decisions. In management’s opinion, these non-GAAP measures provide added transparency into the operating performance of Aquestive and added insight into the effectiveness of our operating strategies and actions.  We may provide one or more revenue measures adjusted for certain discrete items, such as fees collected on certain licensed products, in order to provide investors added insight into our revenue stream and breakdown, along with providing our GAAP revenue. Such measures are intended to supplement, not act as substitutes for, comparable GAAP measures and should not be read as a measure of liquidity for Aquestive.  Adjusted EBITDA and the other non-GAAP measures are also likely calculated in a way that is not comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.


Non-GAAP Outlook
In providing outlook for non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA, non-GAAP gross margin, and cash burn, we exclude certain items which are otherwise included in determining the comparable GAAP financial measures. A description of the adjustments which have been applicable in determining Adjusted EBITDA are reflected in the table below. In providing outlook for non-GAAP gross margin, we adjust for non-cash share-based compensation and depreciation and amortization. We are providing such outlook only on a non-GAAP basis because the Company is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the totality or ultimate outcome or occurrence of these adjustments for the forward-looking period such as share-based compensation expense, income tax, amortization, and certain other adjusted items, which can be dependent on future events that may not be reliably predicted. Based on past reported results, where one or more of these items have been applicable, such excluded items could be material, individually or in the aggregate, to reported results.

Forward-Looking Statement
This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “believe,” "anticipate," "plan," "expect," "estimate," "intend," "may," "will," or the negative of those terms, and similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our growth and future financial and operating results and financial position, ability to advance Libervant to the market, regulatory approvals and pathways, clinical trial timing and plans, short-term and long-term liquidity and cash requirements, cash funding and cash burn, business strategies, market opportunities, and other statements that are not historical facts.
 
These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the Company's development work, including any delays or changes to the timing, cost and success of our product development activities and clinical trials; the risks of delays in FDA approval of our drug candidates or failure to receive approval; the risks inherent in commercializing a new product (including technology risks, financial risks, market risks and implementation risks and regulatory limitations); risk of development of our sales and marketing capabilities; risk of legal costs associated with and the outcome of our patent litigation challenging third party at risk generic sale of our proprietary products; risk of sufficient capital and cash resources, including access to available debt and equity financing and revenues from operations, to satisfy all of our short-term and longer term cash requirements and other cash needs, at the times and in the amounts needed; risk of failure to satisfy all financial and other debt covenants and of any default; risk related to government claims against Indivior for which we license, manufacture and sell Suboxone and which accounts for the substantial part of our current operating revenues; risks related to the outsourcing of certain sales, marketing and other operational and staff functions to third parties; risk of the rate and degree of market acceptance of our products and product candidates; the success of any competing products, including generics; risk of the size and growth of our product markets; risk of the effectiveness and safety of our products and product candidates; risk of compliance with all FDA and other governmental and customer requirements for our manufacturing facilities; risks associated with intellectual property rights and infringement claims relating to the Company's products; risk of unexpected patent developments; the impact of existing and future legislation and regulatory provisions on product exclusivity; legislation or regulatory action affecting pharmaceutical product pricing, reimbursement or access; claims and concerns that may arise regarding the safety or efficacy of the Company's products and product candidates; risk of loss of significant customers; risks related to legal proceedings, including patent infringement, investigative and antitrust litigation matters; changes in governmental laws and regulations; risk of product recalls and withdrawals; uncertainties related to general economic, political, business, industry, regulatory and market conditions and other unusual items; and other risks and uncertainties affecting the Company including those described in the "Risk Factors" section and in other sections included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10‑K  filed with the SEC on March 14, 2019 and in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. All subsequent forward-looking statements attributable to us or any person acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements or outlook or guidance after the date of this press release whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.


SYMPAZAN IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
BOXED WARNING: RISKS FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH OPIOIDS
Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death.


Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.

Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.

Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.

CONTRAINDICATIONS
SYMPAZAN is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug or its ingredients. Hypersensitivity reactions have included serious dermatological reactions.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Potentiation of Sedation from Concomitant Use with Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants
SYMPAZAN has a CNS depressant effect. Caution patients and/or caregivers against simultaneous use with other CNS depressants or alcohol as the effects of other CNS depressants or alcohol may be potentiated.

Somnolence or Sedation
SYMPAZAN causes dose-related somnolence and sedation, which generally begins within the first month of treatment and may diminish with continued treatment. Monitor patients for somnolence and sedation, particularly with concomitant use of other CNS depressants. Caution patients against engaging in hazardous activities requiring mental alertness, i.e., operating dangerous machinery or motor vehicles, until the effect of SYMPAZAN is known.

Withdrawal Symptoms
Abrupt discontinuation of SYMPAZAN should be avoided. The risk of withdrawal symptoms is greater with higher doses. Withdraw SYMPAZAN gradually to minimize the risk of precipitating seizures, seizure exacerbation, or status epilepticus.

Serious Dermatological Reactions
Serious skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), have been reported with clobazam in both children and adults. Discontinue SYMPAZAN at the first sign of rash, unless the rash is clearly not drug-related.


Physical and Psychological Dependence
Patients with a history of substance abuse should be under careful surveillance when receiving SYMPAZAN.

Suicidal Behavior and Ideation
AEDs, including SYMPAZAN, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients. Patients treated with SYMPAZAN should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, and/or any unusual changes in mood or behavior. Inform patients, their caregivers, and families of the increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Advise them to be alert for and report immediately to healthcare providers any emergence or worsening signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts of self-harm.

ADVERSE REACTIONS
Adverse reactions (≥10% and more frequently than placebo) included constipation, somnolence or sedation, pyrexia, lethargy, and drooling.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
The concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids increases the risk of respiratory depression. Limit dosage and duration of concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids and follow patients closely for respiratory depression and sedation. Concomitant use of SYMPAZAN with other CNS depressants, including alcohol, may increase the risk of sedation and somnolence. Caution patients and/or caregivers against simultaneous use with other CNS depressants or alcohol, as effects of other CNS depressants or alcohol may be potentiated.
Hormonal contraceptives that are metabolized by CYP3A4; effectiveness may be diminished when given with SYMPAZAN. Additional non-hormonal forms of contraception are recommended when using SYMPAZAN. Dose adjustment may be necessary of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 and of SYMPAZAN when co-administered with strong CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole, fluvoxamine, ticlopidine).

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Pregnancy and Lactation: SYMPAZAN may cause fetal harm and should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Infants born to mothers who have taken benzodiazepines during the later stages of pregnancy can develop dependence, withdrawal syndrome and symptoms suggestive of floppy infant syndrome. SYMPAZAN is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from SYMPAZAN, discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug. Encourage patients to call the toll-free number 1-888-233-2334 to enroll in the Pregnancy Registry or visit http://www.aedpregnancyregistry.org/.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please click here to see full Prescribing Information, including the Boxed Warning.

Media inquiries:
Lauren Walrath
lwalrath@aquestive.com

Investor inquiries:
Stephanie Carrington
stephanie.carrington@icrinc.com
646-277-1282


AQUESTIVE THERAPEUTICS, INC.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss
(In thousands, except share and per share data amounts)
(Unaudited)



Three Months Ended
June 30,


Six Months Ended
June 30,

   
2019
   
2018
   
2019
   
2018
 
                         
Revenues
 
$
11,129
   
$
13,928
   
$
23,772
   
$
37,339
 
Costs and Expenses:
                               
Manufacture and supply
   
5,420
     
4,973
     
8,926
     
10,609
 
Research and development
   
8,151
     
7,994
     
12,454
     
12,895
 
Selling, general and administrative
   
16,246
     
33,668
     
34,154
     
41,213
 
Total costs and expenses
   
29,817
     
46,635
     
55,534
     
64,717
 
Loss from operations
   
(18,688
)
   
(32,707
)
   
(31,762
)
   
(27,378
)
Other income/(expenses):
                               
Interest expense
   
(1,937
)
   
(1,927
)
   
(3,863
)
   
(3,876
)
Interest income
   
153
     
-
     
427
     
22
 
Change in fair value of warrant
   
-
     
(1,859
)
   
-
     
(1,162
)
Net loss before income taxes
   
(20,472
)
   
(36,493
)
   
(35,198
)
   
(32,394
)
Income taxes
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Net loss
   
(20,472
)
   
(36,493
)
   
(35,198
)
   
(32,394
)
Comprehensive loss
 
$
(20,472
)
 
$
(36,493
)
 
$
(35,198
)
 
$
(32,394
)
                                 
Net loss per share - basic and diluted
 
$
(0.82
)
 
$
(1.90
)
 
$
(1.41
)
 
$
(1.89
)
                                 
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - basic and diluted
   
24,980,861
     
19,188,624
     
24,972,280
     
17,144,492
 


AQUESTIVE THERAPEUTICS, INC.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands, except for share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)



June 30,
2019


December 31,
2018

Assets
           
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
22,165
   
$
60,599
 
Trade and other receivables, net
   
10,150
     
6,481
 
Inventories, net
   
4,647
     
5,441
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
2,102
     
1,680
 
Total current assets
   
39,064
     
74,201
 
Property and equipment, net
   
10,933
     
12,207
 
Intangible assets, net
   
178
     
204
 
Other assets
   
233
     
239
 
Total assets
 
$
50,408
   
$
86,851
 
Liabilities and shareholders' (deficit)/equity
               
Current liabilities:
               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
$
23,479
   
$
27,631
 
Deferred revenue, current
   
600
     
721
 
Loans payable, current
   
550
     
4,600
 
Total current liabilities
   
24,629
     
32,952
 
Loans payable, net
   
46,884
     
42,603
 
Deferred revenue, net of current portion
   
2,266
     
-
 
Asset retirement obligations
   
1,286
     
1,216
 
Total liabilities
   
75,065
     
76,771
 
Commitments and contingencies
               
                 
Shareholders’ (deficit)/equity:
               
Common stock, $.001 par value. Authorized 250,000,000 shares; 25,022,660 and 24,957,309 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively
   
25
     
25
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
74,744
     
71,431
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(99,426
)
   
(61,376
)
Total shareholders' (deficit)/equity
   
(24,657
)
   
10,080
 
Total liabilities and shareholders' (deficit) /equity
 
$
50,408
   
$
86,851
 


AQUESTIVE THERAPEUTICS, INC.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjustments - GAAP Expenses to Adjusted Expenses
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)



Three Months Ended
June 30,


Six Months Ended
June 30,

   
2019
   
2018
   
2019
   
2018
 
Total Costs and Expenses
 
$
29,817
   
$
46,635
   
$
55,534
   
$
64,717
 
Non-GAAP adjustments:
                               
Share-based Compensation Expense
   
(1,810
)
   
(27,305
)
   
(3,330
)
   
(27,305
)
Depreciation and Amortization
   
(724
)
   
(777
)
   
(1,473
)
   
(1,730
)
Adjusted Costs and Expenses
 
$
27,283
   
$
18,553
   
$
50,731
   
$
35,682
 

AQUESTIVE THERAPEUTICS, INC.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjustments - GAAP Manufacture & Supply Expense to Adjusted Manufacture and Supply Expense
(In Thousands, except percentages)
(Unaudited)



Three Months Ended
June 30,


Six Months Ended
June 30,

   
2019
   
2018
   
2019
   
2018
 
Manufacture and Supply Expense
 
$
5,420
   
$
4,973
   
$
8,926
   
$
10,609
 
Gross Margin on total revenue
   
51
%
   
64
%
   
62
%
   
72
%
Non-GAAP adjustments:
                               
Share-based Compensation Expense
   
(72
)
   
(345
)
   
(116
)
   
(345
)
Depreciation and Amortization
   
(586
)
   
(629
)
   
(1,193
)
   
(1,401
)
Adjusted Manufacture and Supply Expense
 
$
4,762
   
$
3,999
   
$
7,617
   
$
8,863
 
Non-GAAP Gross Margin on total revenue
   
57
%
   
71
%
   
68
%
   
76
%

AQUESTIVE THERAPEUTICS, INC.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjustments - GAAP Research and Development Expense to Adjusted Research and Development Expense
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)



Three Months Ended
June 30,


Six Months Ended
June 30,

   
2019
   
2018
   
2019
   
2018
 
Research and Development Expense
 
$
8,151
   
$
7,994
   
$
12,454
   
$
12,895
 
Non-GAAP adjustments:
                               
Share-based Compensation Expense
   
(140
)
   
(2,186
)
   
(348
)
   
(2,186
)
Depreciation and Amortization
   
(60
)
   
(64
)
   
(121
)
   
(142
)
Adjusted Research and Development Expense
 
$
7,951
   
$
5,744
   
$
11,985
   
$
10,567
 

AQUESTIVE THERAPEUTICS, INC.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjustments - GAAP Selling, General and Administrative Expenses to Adjusted Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)



Three Months Ended
June 30,


Six Months Ended
June 30,

   
2019
   
2018
   
2019
   
2018
 
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
 
$
16,246
   
$
33,668
   
$
34,154
   
$
41,213
 
Non-GAAP adjustments:
                               
Share-based Compensation Expense
   
(1,598
)
   
(24,774
)
   
(2,866
)
   
(24,774
)
Depreciation and Amortization
   
(78
)
   
(84
)
   
(159
)
   
(187
)
Adjusted Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
 
$
14,570
   
$
8,810
   
$
31,129
   
$
16,252
 


AQUESTIVE THERAPEUTICS, INC.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjustments - Net Loss to Adjusted EBITDA
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)



Three Months Ended
June 30,


Six Months Ended
June 30,

   
2019
   
2018
   
2019
   
2018
 
                         
Net loss
 
$
(20,472
)
 
$
(36,493
)
 
$
(35,198
)
 
$
(32,394
)
Share-based Compensation Expense
   
1,810
     
27,305
     
3,330
     
27,305
 
Interest Expense
   
1,937
     
1,927
     
3,863
     
3,876
 
Interest Income
   
(153
)
   
-
     
(427
)
   
(22
)
Depreciation and Amortization
   
724
     
777
     
1,473
     
1,730
 
Income Taxes
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Change in Fair Value of Warrant
   
-
     
1,859
     
-
     
1,162
 
Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
(16,154
)
 
$
(4,625
)
 
$
(26,959
)
 
$
1,657
 
 



Exhibit 99.2


Aquestive Therapeutics Announces Positive Topline Results from LibervantTM (Diazepam) Buccal Film Single Dose Crossover Study


The study confirms the dosing algorithm developed for Libervant (diazepam) buccal film, a potentially first in class oral treatment for breakthrough or cluster seizures

Libervant adult rolling New Drug Application (NDA) submission expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2019

Warren, NJ, August 6, 2019 – Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: AQST), a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing differentiated products that meet patients’ unmet needs and solve therapeutic problems, today announced topline results from the recently completed single dose crossover study for Libervant™ (diazepam) Buccal Film, which is in development for the management of select patients with refractory epilepsy who require treatment to control episodes of increased seizure activity, or “seizure clusters.”

The single dose crossover study was designed to compare diazepam maximum plasma [or blood] concentrations from a dose of Libervant and its reference drug, a diazepam rectal gel, in the same patient population, and provide the final set of data to confirm the proposed dosing regimen for Libervant. Subjects were dosed in accordance with body weight into one of four weight categories. A total of 28 patients enrolled were included in the primary analysis. Patients eligible for analysis were stable on concurrent anti-epileptic medications (no changes to concomitant medications allowed from 30 days prior to dosing and throughout the study). Subjects were dosed within 30 minutes of the start of a moderate fat meal and monitored for 10 days after each dose.

Topline results show the study met its co-primary endpoints for diazepam maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), Area Under the Curve (AUC), and time to maximal concentration (Tmax). As quality reviews and statistical analyses continue, the preliminary findings include:


Diazepam exposure following the buccal film was comparable to the rectal gel as assessed by maximal plasma concentration (Cmax ratio of buccal film to rectal gel = 103%; 90% CI = 76%-141%). Across the four weight classes, buccal film demonstrated more consistent Cmax values than was observed in this study for rectal gel.
 

The bioavailability of diazepam administered as the buccal film, assessed by AUC, was the same or higher than rectal gel for the study population overall and also within each of the four weight categories. This finding suggests that any effect of enzyme induction from concomitant medications acted with equal effect on the film and the gel.
 

The Tmax of diazepam film administration in patients under fed conditions (moderate fat) was comparable to the results from previous studies of healthy volunteers who were under fasting conditions (Tmax ~1 hour).

Among the 28 patients valid for analysis, three patients (10.7%) failed to achieve therapeutic concentrations of diazepam when using rectal gel. There were no such failures following buccal film administration.

“We believe Libervant can be a major contribution to patient care for refractory epilepsy patients seeking a better alternative to existing therapies for the management of breakthrough seizures,” said Keith J. Kendall, Chief Executive Officer of Aquestive Therapeutics. “We believe the results of this study confirm our dosing algorithm and satisfy the final clinical requirement requested by the FDA. We expect to successfully complete the NDA filing this year and, bring Libervant to patients in 2020, following approval.”
 
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About Aquestive Therapeutics
Aquestive Therapeutics is a specialty pharmaceutical company that applies innovative technology to solve therapeutic problems and improve medicines for patients. Aquestive is advancing a late-stage proprietary product pipeline to treat CNS conditions and provide alternatives to invasively-administered standard of care therapies. The Company also collaborates with other pharmaceutical companies to bring new molecules to market using proprietary, best in class technologies, like PharmFilm®, and has proven capabilities for drug development and commercialization.

Forward-Looking Statement
This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “believe,” "anticipate," "plan," "expect," "estimate," "intend," "may," "will," or the negative of those terms, and similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our growth and future financial and operating results and financial position, ability to advance Libervant to the market, regulatory approvals and pathways, clinical trial timing and plans, short-term and long-term liquidity and cash requirements, cash funding and cash burn, business strategies, market opportunities, and other statements that are not historical facts.

These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the Company's development work, including any delays or changes to the timing, cost and success of our product development activities and clinical trials; the risks of delays in FDA approval of our drug candidates or failure to receive approval; the risks inherent in commercializing a new product (including technology risks, financial risks, market risks and implementation risks and regulatory limitations); risk of development of our sales and marketing capabilities; risk of legal costs associated with and the outcome of our patent litigation challenging third party at risk generic sale of our proprietary products; risk of sufficient capital and cash resources, including access to available debt and equity financing and revenues from operations, to satisfy all of our short-term and longer term cash requirements and other cash needs, at the times and in the amounts needed; risk of failure to satisfy all financial and other debt covenants and of any default; risk related to government claims against Indivior for which we license, manufacture and sell Suboxone and which accounts for the substantial part of our current operating revenues; risks related to the outsourcing of certain sales, marketing and other operational and staff functions to third parties; risk of the rate and degree of market acceptance of our products and product candidates; the success of any competing products, including generics; risk of the size and growth of our product markets; risk of the effectiveness and safety of our products and product candidates; risk of compliance with all FDA and other governmental and customer requirements for our manufacturing facilities; risks associated with intellectual property rights and infringement claims relating to the Company's products; risk of unexpected patent developments; the impact of existing and future legislation and regulatory provisions on product exclusivity; legislation or regulatory action affecting pharmaceutical product pricing, reimbursement or access; claims and concerns that may arise regarding the safety or efficacy of the Company's products and product candidates; risk of loss of significant customers; risks related to legal proceedings, including patent infringement, investigative and antitrust litigation matters; changes in governmental laws and regulations; risk of product recalls and withdrawals; uncertainties related to general economic, political, business, industry, regulatory and market conditions and other unusual items; and other risks and uncertainties affecting the Company including those described in the "Risk Factors" section and in other sections included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10‑K  filed with the SEC on March 14, 2019 and in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. All subsequent forward-looking statements attributable to us or any person acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements or outlook or guidance after the date of this press release whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.

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Media inquiries:
Lauren Walrath
lwalrath@aquestive.com

Investor inquiries:
Stephanie Carrington
stephanie.carrington@icrinc.com
646-277-1282


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