Document_and_Entity_Informatio
Document and Entity Information (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Mar. 14, 2014 | Jun. 30, 2013 | |
Document And Entity Information [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' |
Document Type | '10-K | ' | ' |
Amendment Flag | 'false | ' | ' |
Document Period End Date | 31-Dec-13 | ' | ' |
Document Fiscal Year Focus | '2013 | ' | ' |
Document Fiscal Period Focus | 'FY | ' | ' |
Entity Registrant Name | 'CATALYST PHARMACEUTICAL PARTNERS, INC. | ' | ' |
Entity Central Index Key | '0001369568 | ' | ' |
Current Fiscal Year End Date | '--12-31 | ' | ' |
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | 'No | ' | ' |
Entity Current Reporting Status | 'Yes | ' | ' |
Entity Voluntary Filers | 'No | ' | ' |
Entity Filer Category | 'Smaller Reporting Company | ' | ' |
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | ' | 54,145,633 | ' |
Entity Public Float | ' | ' | $32,240,770 |
Balance_Sheets
Balance Sheets (USD $) | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 |
Current Assets: | ' | ' |
Cash and cash equivalents | $2,215,958 | $1,409,939 |
Certificates of deposit | 4,011,576 | 6,502,825 |
Short-term investments | 17,483,062 | 7,504,444 |
Prepaid expenses | 1,609,442 | 1,309,470 |
Total current assets | 25,320,038 | 16,726,678 |
Property and equipment, net | 40,628 | 53,679 |
Deposits | 8,888 | 8,888 |
Total assets | 25,369,554 | 16,789,245 |
Current Liabilities: | ' | ' |
Accounts payable | 850,789 | 1,365,663 |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | 1,288,820 | 281,002 |
Total current liabilities | 2,139,609 | 1,646,665 |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities, non-current | 19,131 | 21,878 |
Warrants liability, at fair value | 1,819,562 | 498,587 |
Total liabilities | 3,978,302 | 2,167,130 |
Commitments and contingencies | ' | ' |
Stockholders' equity: | ' | ' |
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized: none issued and outstanding at December 31, 2013 and 2012 | ' | ' |
Common stock, $0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 54,132,937 shares and 41,420,687 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively | 54,133 | 41,421 |
Additional paid-in capital | 75,670,718 | 56,759,697 |
Deficit accumulated during the development stage | -54,333,599 | -42,179,003 |
Total stockholders' equity | 21,391,252 | 14,622,115 |
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity | $25,369,554 | $16,789,245 |
Balance_Sheets_Parenthetical
Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $) | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 |
Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract] | ' | ' |
Preferred stock, par value | $0.00 | $0.00 |
Preferred stock, shares authorized | 5,000,000 | 5,000,000 |
Preferred stock, shares issued | ' | ' |
Preferred stock, shares outstanding | ' | ' |
Common stock, par value | $0.00 | $0.00 |
Common stock, shares authorized | 100,000,000 | 100,000,000 |
Common stock, shares issued | 54,132,937 | 41,420,687 |
Common stock, shares outstanding | 54,132,937 | 41,420,687 |
Statements_of_Operations
Statements of Operations (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | 144 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | |
Income Statement [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Revenues - government grant | ' | ' | ' | $488,958 |
Operating costs and expenses: | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Research and development | 8,096,774 | 2,659,597 | 3,383,965 | 36,400,079 |
General and administrative | 2,214,884 | 2,561,543 | 2,698,174 | 18,882,175 |
Total operating costs and expenses | 10,311,658 | 5,221,140 | 6,082,139 | 55,282,254 |
Loss from operations | -10,311,658 | -5,221,140 | -6,082,139 | -54,793,296 |
Interest income | 47,421 | 14,976 | 10,985 | 1,540,186 |
Change in fair value of warrants liability | -1,890,359 | 1,129,778 | -319,908 | -1,080,489 |
Loss before income taxes | -12,154,596 | -4,076,386 | -6,391,062 | -54,333,599 |
Provision for income taxes | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Net loss | ($12,154,596) | ($4,076,386) | ($6,391,062) | ($54,333,599) |
Net loss per share - basic and diluted | ($0.27) | ($0.14) | ($0.29) | ' |
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic and diluted | 45,452,447 | 30,033,108 | 21,728,292 | ' |
Statement_of_Stockholders_Equi
Statement of Stockholders' Equity (USD $) | Total | Preferred Stock Series "A" [Member] | Preferred Stock Series "B" [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Additional Paid-In Capital [Member] | Deficit Accumulated During the Development Stage [Member] |
Beginning Balance at Jan. 04, 2002 | $100,000 | ' | ' | $21,888 | $78,112 | ' |
Issuance of common stock, net | 125,000 | ' | ' | 7,296 | 117,704 | ' |
Issuance of stock options for services | 75,833 | ' | ' | ' | 75,833 | ' |
Net loss | -255,945 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -255,945 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2002 | 44,888 | ' | ' | 29,184 | 271,649 | -255,945 |
Issuance of preferred stock, net | 670,457 | 700 | ' | ' | 669,757 | ' |
Issuance of stock options for services | 75,833 | ' | ' | ' | 75,833 | ' |
Net loss | -428,615 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -428,615 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2003 | 362,563 | 700 | ' | 29,184 | 1,017,239 | -684,560 |
Issuance of stock options for services | 294,833 | ' | ' | ' | 294,833 | ' |
Net loss | -539,820 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -539,820 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2004 | 117,576 | 700 | ' | 29,184 | 1,312,072 | -1,224,380 |
Issuance of common stock, net | 1,046,516 | ' | ' | 39,545 | 1,006,971 | ' |
Issuance of common stock and stock options for services | 1,087,750 | ' | ' | 146 | 1,087,604 | ' |
Net loss | -1,805,380 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -1,805,380 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2005 | 446,462 | 700 | ' | 68,875 | 3,406,647 | -3,029,760 |
Change in par value | ' | -630 | ' | -61,988 | 62,618 | ' |
Issuance of preferred stock Series "B", net | 3,225,140 | ' | 8 | ' | 3,225,132 | ' |
Issuance of common stock (IPO), net | 17,638,020 | ' | ' | 3,350 | 17,634,670 | ' |
Conversion of preferred stock Series "A" into common stock, upon closing of IPO | ' | -70 | ' | 1,022 | -952 | ' |
Conversion of preferred stock Series "B" into common stock, upon closing of IPO | ' | ' | -8 | 1,116 | -1,108 | ' |
Issuance of common stock and stock options for services | 1,266,465 | ' | ' | 142 | 1,266,323 | ' |
Net loss | -2,729,454 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -2,729,454 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2006 | 19,846,633 | ' | ' | 12,517 | 25,593,330 | -5,759,214 |
Issuance of common stock and stock options for services | 579,687 | ' | ' | 11 | 579,676 | ' |
Amortization of restricted stock for services | 35,930 | ' | ' | ' | 35,930 | ' |
Net loss | -4,139,493 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -4,139,493 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2007 | 16,322,757 | ' | ' | 12,528 | 26,208,936 | -9,898,707 |
Issuance of common stock, net | 4,087,900 | ' | ' | 1,488 | 4,086,412 | ' |
Issuance of stock options for services | 583,836 | ' | ' | ' | 583,836 | ' |
Issuance of restricted stock units for services, net | 130,319 | ' | ' | 44 | 130,275 | ' |
Net loss | -10,564,597 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -10,564,597 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2008 | 10,560,215 | ' | ' | 14,060 | 31,009,459 | -20,463,304 |
Issuance of common stock, net | 3,698,135 | ' | ' | 3,973 | 3,694,162 | ' |
Issuance of stock options for services | 581,286 | ' | ' | ' | 581,286 | ' |
Issuance of restricted stock units for services, net | 20,152 | ' | ' | 5 | 20,147 | ' |
Net loss | -7,241,928 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -7,241,928 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2009 | 7,617,860 | ' | ' | 18,038 | 35,305,054 | -27,705,232 |
Issuance of common stock, net | 1,456,153 | ' | ' | 1,352 | 1,454,801 | ' |
Issuance of stock options for services | 450,089 | ' | ' | ' | 450,089 | ' |
Issuance of restricted stock units for services, net | ' | ' | ' | 5 | -5 | ' |
Net loss | -4,006,323 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -4,006,323 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2010 | 5,517,779 | ' | ' | 19,395 | 37,209,939 | -31,711,555 |
Issuance of stock options for services | 416,735 | ' | ' | ' | 416,735 | ' |
Issuance of common stock and warrants, net | 4,217,246 | ' | ' | 5,306 | 4,211,940 | ' |
Net loss | -6,391,062 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -6,391,062 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2011 | 3,760,698 | ' | ' | 24,701 | 41,838,614 | -38,102,617 |
Issuance of common stock, net | 33,124 | ' | ' | 53 | 33,071 | ' |
Issuance of stock options for services | 340,039 | ' | ' | ' | 340,039 | ' |
Issuance of common stock and warrants, net | 9,564,640 | ' | ' | 10,000 | 9,554,640 | ' |
Issuance of common stock upon note conversion | 5,000,000 | ' | ' | 6,667 | 4,993,333 | ' |
Net loss | -4,076,386 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -4,076,386 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2012 | 14,622,115 | ' | ' | 41,421 | 56,759,697 | -42,179,003 |
Issuance of common stock, net | 14,095,194 | ' | ' | 8,850 | 14,086,344 | ' |
Issuance of stock options for services | 175,855 | ' | ' | ' | 175,855 | ' |
Exercise of warrants for common stock | 4,652,684 | ' | ' | 3,862 | 4,648,822 | ' |
Net loss | -12,154,596 | ' | ' | ' | ' | -12,154,596 |
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2013 | $21,391,252 | ' | ' | $54,133 | $75,670,718 | ($54,333,599) |
Statements_of_Cash_Flows
Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | 144 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | |
Operating Activities: | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Net loss | ($12,154,596) | ($4,076,386) | ($6,391,062) | ($54,333,599) |
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Depreciation and amortization | 22,483 | 10,889 | 42,835 | 187,361 |
Stock-based compensation | 175,855 | 340,039 | 416,735 | 6,138,055 |
Change in fair value of warrants liability | 1,890,359 | -1,129,778 | 319,908 | 1,080,489 |
(Increase) decrease in: | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Government grant receivable | ' | ' | 134,025 | ' |
Prepaid expenses and deposits | -299,972 | -1,110,354 | -31,272 | -1,618,330 |
Increase (decrease) in: | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Accounts payable | -514,874 | 1,101,729 | 158,001 | 850,789 |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | 1,005,071 | -276,505 | 365,781 | 1,244,599 |
Net cash used in operating activities | -9,875,674 | -5,140,366 | -4,985,049 | -46,450,636 |
Investing Activities: | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Capital expenditures | -9,432 | -52,382 | -3,620 | -164,640 |
Purchase of short-term investments | -9,978,618 | -7,504,444 | ' | -17,483,062 |
Proceeds (purchase) of certificates of deposit | 2,491,249 | -6,502,825 | ' | -4,011,576 |
Net cash used in investing activities | -7,496,801 | -14,059,651 | -3,620 | -21,659,278 |
Financing Activities: | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and warrants, net | 14,071,694 | 9,564,640 | 5,542,578 | 57,210,636 |
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net | ' | ' | ' | 3,895,597 |
Proceeds from issuance of convertible promissory note | ' | 5,000,000 | ' | 5,000,000 |
Proceeds from exercise of warrants | 4,083,300 | 16,249 | ' | 4,099,549 |
Proceeds from exercise of options | 23,500 | ' | ' | 23,500 |
Payment of employee withholding tax related to restricted stock units | ' | ' | ' | -3,410 |
Net cash provided by financing activities | 18,178,494 | 14,580,889 | 5,542,578 | 70,225,872 |
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents | 806,019 | -4,619,128 | 553,909 | 2,115,958 |
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period | 1,409,939 | 6,029,067 | 5,475,158 | 100,000 |
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period | 2,215,958 | 1,409,939 | 6,029,067 | 2,215,958 |
Non-cash investing and financing activities: | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Non-cash incentive received from lessor | ' | ' | ' | 52,320 |
Exercise of liability classified warrants for common stock | 569,384 | 16,875 | ' | 586,259 |
Conversion of note to common stock | ' | $5,000,000 | ' | $5,000,000 |
Organization_and_Description_o
Organization and Description of Business | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2013 | ||
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ' | |
Organization and Description of Business | ' | |
1 | Organization and Description of Business | |
Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners, Inc. (the “Company”) is a development-stage specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of prescription drugs targeting rare (orphan) neurological diseases and disorders, including Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS) and infantile spasms. The Company was incorporated in Delaware in July 2006. It is the successor by merger to Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners, Inc., a Florida corporation, which commenced operations in January 2002. | ||
The Company has incurred operating losses in each period from inception through December 31, 2013. The Company has been able to fund its cash needs to date through public and private offerings of its common stock and warrants and through government grants. See Note 11. | ||
Capital Resources | ||
On January 31, 2014, the Company filed a shelf Registration Statement on Form S-3 (the 2014 Shelf Registration Statement) with the SEC to sell up to $100 million of common stock. The 2014 shelf Registration Statement has not yet been declared effective. See Note 15. | ||
While there can be no assurance, based on available information, the Company currently believes that it has sufficient resources to support its planned operations through at least the end of 2014. The Company will require additional capital to support its planned operations in periods after the end of 2014. | ||
The Company may raise in the future required funds through public or private equity offerings, debt financings, corporate collaborations, governmental research grants or other means. The Company may also seek to raise new capital to fund additional product development efforts, even if it has sufficient funds for its planned operations. Any sale by the Company of additional equity or convertible debt securities could result in dilution to the Company’s current stockholders. There can be no assurance that any required additional funding will be available to the Company at all or available on terms acceptable to the Company. Further, to the extent that the Company raises funds through collaborative arrangements, it may be necessary to relinquish some rights to the Company’s technologies or grant sublicenses on terms that are not favorable to the Company. If the Company is not able to secure additional funding when needed, the Company may have to delay, reduce the scope of, or eliminate one or more research and development programs, which could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business. |
Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||||||
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies | ' | ||||||||||||||||
2 | Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies | ||||||||||||||||
a. | DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY. Since inception, the Company has devoted substantially all of its efforts to business planning, research and development, recruiting management and technical staff, acquiring operating assets and raising capital. Accordingly, the Company is considered to be in the development stage and the Company’s financial statements are presented in that manner in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The Company’s primary focus is on the development and commercialization of its drug candidates. | ||||||||||||||||
b. | USE OF ESTIMATES. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. | ||||||||||||||||
c. | CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS. The Company considers all highly liquid instruments, purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents consist mainly of U.S. Treasury bills, certificates of deposit and money market funds. The Company has substantially all of its cash and cash equivalents deposited with one financial institution. | ||||||||||||||||
d. | CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT. The certificates of deposit were issued by a banking institution and are recorded at cost plus accrued interest. The original maturity was greater than three months but did not exceed one year. Interest income is recorded in the statement of operations as it is earned. Carrying value at December 31, 2013 and 2012 approximates fair value. | ||||||||||||||||
e. | SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS. The Company invests in short-term investments in high credit-quality funds in order to obtain higher yields on its cash available for investments. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012 short-term investments consisted of a short-term bond fund. Such investments are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Short-term investments at December 31, 2013 and 2012 were considered trading securities. Trading securities are recorded at fair value based on the closing market price of the security. For trading securities, the Company charges realized gains and losses and unrealized gains and losses to earnings. Unrealized and realized losses on trading securities for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were nominal. | ||||||||||||||||
f. | PREPAID EXPENSES. Prepaid expenses consist primarily of prepaid research fees, prepaid insurance and prepaid subscription fees. Prepaid research fees consist of advances for the Company’s drug development activities, including drug manufacturing, contracts for pre-clinical studies, clinical trials and studies, regulatory affairs and consulting. Such advances are recorded as expense as the related goods are received or the related services are performed. | ||||||||||||||||
g. | PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT. Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is calculated to amortize the depreciable assets over their useful lives using the straight-line method and commences when the asset is placed in service. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease or the estimated life of the improvement, whichever is shorter. Useful lives generally range from three years for computer equipment to three to six years for furniture and equipment and leasehold improvements. Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged to expenses as incurred. | ||||||||||||||||
h. | OPERATING LEASES. The Company recognizes lease expense on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term. For leases that contain rent holidays, escalation clauses or tenant improvement allowances, the Company recognizes rent expense on a straight-line basis and records the difference between the rent expense and rental amount payable as deferred rent. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had $21,877 and $22,643, respectively, of deferred rent in accrued expenses and other liabilities. | ||||||||||||||||
i. | FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS. The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, certificates of deposit, short-term investments, accounts payable and accrued expenses and other liabilities, and warrants liability. At December 31, 2013, the fair value of these instruments approximated their carrying value. | ||||||||||||||||
j. | FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS. Current Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) fair value guidance emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement. Therefore, a fair value measurement should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. As a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, current FASB guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classified within Levels 1 and 2 of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity’s own assumptions that it believes market participants would use in pricing assets or liabilities (unobservable inputs classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy). | ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 inputs utilize quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs may include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, as well as inputs that are observable for the asset or liability (other than quoted prices), such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, which are typically based on an entity’s own assumptions, as there is little, if any, related market activity. In instances where the determination of the fair value measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. | |||||||||||||||||
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using | |||||||||||||||||
Balances as of | Quoted Prices in | Significant | Significant | ||||||||||||||
December 31, | Active Markets | Other | Unobservable | ||||||||||||||
2013 | for Identical | Observable | Inputs | ||||||||||||||
Assets/Liabilities | Inputs | (Level 3) | |||||||||||||||
(Level 1) | (Level 2) | ||||||||||||||||
Money market funds | $ | 25,693 | $ | 25,693 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Certificates of deposit | $ | 4,011,576 | $ | — | $ | 4,011,576 | $ | — | |||||||||
Short-term investments | $ | 17,483,062 | $ | 17,483,062 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Warrants liability | $ | 1,819,562 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,819,562 | |||||||||
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using | |||||||||||||||||
Balances as of | Quoted Prices in | Significant | Significant | ||||||||||||||
December 31, | Active Markets | Other | Unobservable | ||||||||||||||
2012 | for Identical | Observable | Inputs | ||||||||||||||
Assets/Liabilities | Inputs | (Level 3) | |||||||||||||||
(Level 1) | (Level 2) | ||||||||||||||||
Certificates of deposit | $ | 6,502,825 | $ | — | $ | 6,502,825 | $ | — | |||||||||
Short-term investments | $ | 7,504,444 | $ | 7,504,444 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Warrants liability | $ | 498,587 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 498,587 | |||||||||
k. | WARRANTS LIABILITY. In October 2011, the Company issued 1,523,370 warrants (the 2011 warrants) to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock in connection with a registered direct offering under the 2010 Shelf Registration Statement. The Company accounted for these warrants as a liability measured at fair value due to a provision included in the warrants agreement that provides the warrants holders with an option to require the Company (or its successor) to purchase their warrants for cash in an amount equal to their Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model (the Black-Scholes Model) value, in the event that certain fundamental transactions, as defined, occur. The fair value of the warrants liability is estimated using the Black-Scholes Model which requires inputs such as the expected term of the warrants, share price volatility and risk-free interest rate. These assumptions are reviewed on a quarterly basis and changes in the estimated fair value of the outstanding warrants are recognized each reporting period in the “Change in fair value of warrants liability” line in the statement of operations. As of December 31, 2013, 1,254,870 of the 2011 warrants remained outstanding. | ||||||||||||||||
l. | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT. Costs incurred in connection with research and development activities are expensed as incurred. These costs consist of direct and indirect costs associated with specific projects as well as fees paid to various entities that perform research related services for the Company. | ||||||||||||||||
m. | STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION. The Company recognizes expense in the statement of operations for the fair value of all stock-based payments to employees, directors and consultants, including grants of stock options and other share-based awards. For stock options, the Company uses the Black-Scholes option valuation model, the single-option award approach and straight-line attribution method. Using this approach, compensation cost is amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of each respective stock option, generally three to five years. The Company estimates forfeitures and adjusts this estimate periodically based on actual forfeitures. | ||||||||||||||||
For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense as follows: | |||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||
Research and development | $ | 84,728 | $ | 100,221 | $ | 111,283 | |||||||||||
General and administrative | 91,127 | 239,818 | 305,452 | ||||||||||||||
Total stock-based compensation | $ | 175,855 | $ | 340,039 | $ | 416,735 | |||||||||||
n. | CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK. The financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk are cash equivalents (i.e. money market funds), short-term investments and certificates of deposit. The Company places its cash equivalents with high-credit quality financial institutions. These amounts at times may exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any credit losses in these accounts. | ||||||||||||||||
o. | INCOME TAXES. The Company utilizes the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. | ||||||||||||||||
The Company recognizes the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more-likely-than-not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority. | |||||||||||||||||
The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions. Tax regulations within each jurisdiction are subject to the interpretation of the related tax laws and regulations and require significant judgment to apply. The Company is not subject to U.S. federal, state and local tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2010. If the Company were to subsequently record an unrecognized tax benefit, associated penalties and tax related interest expense would be reported as a component of income tax expense. | |||||||||||||||||
p. | COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS). U.S. generally accepted accounting principles require that all components of comprehensive income (loss) be reported in the financial statements in the period in which they are recognized. Comprehensive income (loss) is net income (loss), plus certain other items that are recorded directly into stockholders’ equity. The Company has reported comprehensive income (loss) in the statement of stockholders’ equity as net income (loss). | ||||||||||||||||
q. | NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE. Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, plus the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents, such as convertible preferred stock, stock options and restricted stock units. For all periods presented, all common stock equivalents were excluded because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. The potential shares, which are excluded from the determination of basic and diluted net loss per share as their effect is anti-dilutive, are as follows, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011: | ||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||
Options to purchase common stock | 3,428,906 | 3,650,535 | 3,723,108 | ||||||||||||||
Warrants to purchase common stock | 4,848,620 | 8,710,870 | 1,523,370 | ||||||||||||||
Potential equivalent common stock excluded | 8,277,526 | 12,361,405 | 5,246,478 | ||||||||||||||
Potentially dilutive options to purchase common stock as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 have exercise prices ranging from $0.47 to $6.00. Potentially dilutive warrants to purchase common stock as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 have exercise prices ranging from $1.04 to $2.08. | |||||||||||||||||
r. | SEGMENT INFORMATION. Management has determined that the Company operates in one reportable segment, which is the development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. | ||||||||||||||||
s. | RECLASSIFICATIONS. Certain prior year amounts in the financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. | ||||||||||||||||
t. | RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS. There are no recent accounting pronouncements which the Company anticipates will have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. |
Warrants_Liability_at_Fair_Val
Warrants Liability, at Fair Value | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||
Text Block [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||
Warrants Liability, at Fair Value | ' | ||||||||||||
3 | Warrants Liability, at Fair Value | ||||||||||||
2011 Warrants | |||||||||||||
The Company allocated approximately $1.3 million of proceeds from its October 2011 registered direct offering to the fair value of common stock purchase warrants issued in connection with the offering that are classified as a liability (the 2011 warrants). The 2011 warrants are classified as a liability because of provisions in such warrants that allow for the net cash settlement of such warrants in the event of certain fundamental transactions (as defined in the warrant agreement). The valuation of the 2011 warrants is determined using the Black-Scholes Model. This model uses inputs such as the underlying price of the shares issued when the warrant is exercised, volatility, risk free interest rate and expected life of the instrument. The Company has determined that the 2011 warrants liability should be classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy by evaluating each input for the Black-Scholes Model against the fair value hierarchy criteria and using the lowest level of input as the basis for the fair value classification. There are six inputs: closing price of the Company’s common stock on the day of evaluation; the exercise price of the warrants; the remaining term of the warrants; the volatility of the Company’s common stock; annual rate of dividends; and the risk free rate of return. Of those inputs, the exercise price of the warrants and the remaining term are readily observable in the warrants agreement. The annual rate of dividends is based on the Company’s historical practice of not granting dividends. The closing price of the Company’s common stock would fall under Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy as it is a quoted price in an active market. The risk free rate of return is a Level 2 input, while the historical volatility is a Level 3 input in accordance with the fair value accounting guidance. Since the lowest level input is a Level 3, the Company determined the 2011 warrants liability is most appropriately classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. This liability is subject to fair value mark-to-market adjustment each reporting period. The calculated value of the 2011 warrants liability was determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions: | |||||||||||||
December 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | ||||||||||||
Risk free interest rate | 0.94 | % | 0.6 | % | |||||||||
Expected term | 3.34 years | 4.34 years | |||||||||||
Expected volatility | 108 | % | 136 | % | |||||||||
Expected dividend yield | 0 | % | 0 | % | |||||||||
Expected forfeiture rate | 0 | % | 0 | % | |||||||||
The following table rolls forward the fair value of the Company’s warrants liability activity for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011: | |||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||
Fair value, beginning of period | $ | 498,587 | $ | 1,645,240 | $ | — | |||||||
Issuance of warrants | — | — | 1,325,332 | ||||||||||
Exercise of warrants | (569,384 | ) | (16,875 | ) | — | ||||||||
Change in fair value | 1,890,359 | (1,129,778 | ) | 319,908 | |||||||||
Fair value, end of period | $ | 1,819,562 | $ | 498,587 | $ | 1,645,240 | |||||||
During 2013, 256,000 of the 2011 warrants were exercised, with proceeds to the Company of $332,800. During 2012, 12,500 of the 2011 warrants were exercised, with proceeds to the Company of $16,249. The Company recognizes the change in the fair value of the warrants liability as a non-operating income or loss in the accompanying statements of operations. See Note 15. |
Prepaid_Expenses
Prepaid Expenses | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||
Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||
Prepaid Expenses | ' | ||||||||
4 | Prepaid Expenses | ||||||||
Prepaid expenses consist of the following as of December 31: | |||||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||||
Prepaid research fees | $ | 1,334,149 | $ | 1,138,185 | |||||
Prepaid insurance | 219,651 | 143,520 | |||||||
Prepaid subscriptions fees | 24,643 | 12,369 | |||||||
Prepaid rent | 7,848 | 683 | |||||||
Other | 23,151 | 14,713 | |||||||
Total prepaid expenses | $ | 1,609,442 | $ | 1,309,470 | |||||
Property_and_Equipment
Property and Equipment | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||
Property and Equipment | ' | ||||||||
5 | Property and Equipment | ||||||||
Property and equipment, net consists of the following as of December 31: | |||||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||||
Computer equipment | $ | 81,551 | $ | 74,191 | |||||
Furniture and equipment | 51,523 | 49,451 | |||||||
133,074 | 123,642 | ||||||||
Less: Accumulated depreciation | (92,446 | ) | (69,963 | ) | |||||
Total property and equipment, net | $ | 40,628 | $ | 53,679 | |||||
Depreciation expense was $22,483, $10,889 and $42,835, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. |
Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Lia
Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||
Payables And Accruals [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||
Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities | ' | ||||||||
6 | Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities | ||||||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities consist of the following as of December 31: | |||||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||||
Accrued pre-clinical and clinical trial expenses | $ | 1,083,749 | $ | 197,572 | |||||
Accrued professional fees | 117,240 | 51,050 | |||||||
Accrued compensation and benefits | 14,539 | 5,949 | |||||||
Accrued license fees | 65,000 | 15,000 | |||||||
Deferred rent | 2,746 | 765 | |||||||
Other | 5,546 | 10,666 | |||||||
Current accrued expenses and other liabilities | 1,288,820 | 281,002 | |||||||
Deferred rent—non-current | 19,131 | 21,878 | |||||||
Non-current accrued expenses and other liabilities | 19,131 | 21,878 | |||||||
Total accrued expenses and other liabilities | $ | 1,307,951 | $ | 302,880 | |||||
Commitments_and_Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies | 12 Months Ended | ||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ||||
Commitments and Contingencies | ' | ||||
7 | Commitments and Contingencies | ||||
The Company has contracted with drug manufacturers and other vendors, including the clinical research organization (CRO) overseeing the clinical trial of one of the Company’s drug candidates, to assist in the execution of the Company’s pre-clinical and clinical trials, analysis, and the preparation of material necessary for the future filings of new drug applications (NDA’s) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The contracts are cancelable at any time, but obligate the Company to reimburse the providers for any time or costs incurred through the date of termination. | |||||
The Company has executed a noncancellable operating lease agreement for its corporate office. The lease has free and escalating rent payment provisions. The Company recognizes rent expense under such lease on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. As of December 31, 2013, future minimum lease payments under the operating lease agreement are as follows: | |||||
2014 | $ | 68,534 | |||
2015 | 70,576 | ||||
2016 | 72,678 | ||||
2017 | 67,828 | ||||
$ | 279,616 | ||||
During June 2011, in connection with the renewal of the corporate office lease, the Company entered into the first amendment to the lease. The amendment extends the original lease term for five years and relocates the Company into another space within the same building. The corporate office lease is cancellable upon the payment of an early termination penalty during 2015. The relocation occurred in November 2011. The lease provides for fixed increases in minimum annual rent payments, as well as rent free periods. The total amount of rental payments due over the lease term is being charged to rent expense on the straight-line method over the term of the lease. The differences between rent expense recorded and the amount paid is credited or charged to accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying balance sheets. Rent expense was $69,930, $65,310 and $61,653, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. The Company’s leases expire on various dates through November 2017. Subsequent to year end, during February 2014, the Company entered into the second amendment of the lease for an additional contiguous space under substantially the same terms. | |||||
Securities Class Action Lawsuit | |||||
In October 2013 and November 2013, three securities class action lawsuits were filed against the Company and certain of its executive officers and directors seeking unspecified damages in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida (the Court). The complaints, which were substantially identical, purported to state a claim for violation of federal securities laws on behalf of a class of those who purchased the Company’s common stock between October 31, 2012 and October 18, 2013. Two of the cases were voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiffs and the Court granted the Company’s motion to dismiss the third case on January 3, 2014. However, the Court granted leave to the plaintiffs to file an amended complaint within 20 days. | |||||
On January 23, 2014, the plaintiffs filed an amended complaint against the Company and one of its executive officers seeking unspecified damages. The amended complaint purports to state a claim for alleged misrepresentations regarding the development of Firdapse™ on behalf of a class of those who purchased the Company’s common stock between August 27, 2013 and October 18, 2013. The Company has filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint, which has not yet been ruled upon by the Court. The Company believes that the amended lawsuit, which is at a very early stage, is without merit, and the Company intends to vigorously defend this lawsuit. While there can be no assurance, the Company does not expect this lawsuit to have a material adverse effect on the Company, and no amounts have been accrued with respect to this potential contingent liability in the accompanying December 31, 2013 balance sheet. | |||||
Obligations under capital leases are not significant. | |||||
For commitments related to the Company’s license agreements with BioMarin (defined below), Brookhaven (defined below), and Northwestern (defined below), see Note 8. |
Agreements
Agreements | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||
Text Block [Abstract] | ' | ||
Agreements | ' | ||
8 | Agreements | ||
a. | LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH BROOKHAVEN. The Company had a license agreement with Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC, as operator of Brookhaven National Laboratory under contract with the United States Department of Energy (“Brookhaven”), whereby the Company has obtained an exclusive license for several patents and patent applications in the U.S. and outside the U.S. relating to the use of vigabatrin as a treatment for cocaine and other addictions and obsessive-compulsive disorders. This license agreement ran concurrently with the term of the last to expire of the licensed patents, the last of which currently expires in 2023. The Company paid a fee to obtain the license in the amount of $50,000. Under the license agreement, the Company agreed to pay Brookhaven certain milestones and to reimburse them for certain patent related expenses. | ||
On November 8, 2013, effective October 1, 2013, the Company and Brookhaven entered into a termination agreement cancelling the license agreement. As part of that agreement, the Company and Brookhaven entered into mutual releases, including a release from any further obligation for the Company to reimburse Brookhaven for any of Brookhaven’s patent related expenses. | |||
b. | LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY. On August 27, 2009, the Company entered into a license agreement with Northwestern University (Northwestern), under which it acquired worldwide rights to commercialize new GABA aminotransferase inhibitors and derivatives of vigabatrin that have been discovered by Northwestern. Under the terms of the license agreement, Northwestern granted the Company an exclusive worldwide license to certain composition of matter patents related to the new class of inhibitors and a patent application relating to derivatives of vigabatrin. The Company has identified and designated the lead compound under this license as CPP-115. | ||
Under the license agreement with Northwestern, the Company will be responsible for continued research and development of any resulting product candidates. As of December 31, 2013, the Company had paid Northwestern $246,590 in connection with the license and had accrued license fees of $65,000 and $15,000 as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, in the accompanying balance sheets for expenses, maintenance fees and milestones. In addition, the Company is obligated to pay certain milestone payments in future years relating to clinical development activities with respect to CPP-115, and royalties on any products resulting from the license agreement. The next milestone payment of $150,000 is due on the earlier of successful completion of the first Phase 2 clinical trial for CPP-115 or August 27, 2015. | |||
c. | LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH NEW YORK UNIVERSITY AND THE FEINSTEIN INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH. On December 13, 2011, the Company entered into a license agreement with New York University (NYU) and the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research (FIMR) under which it acquired worldwide rights to commercialize GABA aminotransferase inhibitors in the treatment for Tourette’s Syndrome. The Company is obligated to pay certain milestone payments in future years relating to clinical development activities and royalties on any products resulting from the license agreement. | ||
d. | LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH BIOMARIN. On October 26, 2012, the Company entered into a strategic collaboration with BioMarin for Firdapse™. The key components of the collaboration include: (i) the Company licensed the exclusive North American rights to Firdapse™ pursuant to a License Agreement, dated as of October 26, 2012 (the License Agreement) between the Company and BioMarin, and (ii) BioMarin made a $5,000,000 investment in the Company pursuant to the terms of a Convertible Promissory Note and Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 26, 2012 (the Investment Agreement). The Investment Agreement provides that the Company will use the $5 million solely for the purpose of developing Firdapse™. | ||
Initially, the $5,000,000 investment from BioMarin was treated as a loan to the Company. However, on December 10, 2012, the loan automatically converted, at a conversion rate of $0.75 per share, into 6,666,667 shares of the Company’s authorized but unissued common stock. | |||
As part of the License Agreement, the Company has taken over a Phase 3 clinical trial previously being conducted by BioMarin and is obligated to use its diligent efforts to seek to obtain regulatory approval for and to commercialize Firdapse™ in the United States. The Company is obligated to use diligent efforts to complete the double-blind treatment phase of the Phase 3 trial within 24 months of entering into the License Agreement, and BioMarin has the right to terminate the License Agreement if such treatment phase has not been completed in such 24-month period (unless the Company is using diligent effort to pursue the completion of such treatment phase and has spent at least $5 million in connection with the conduct of the Phase 3 clinical trial during such 24 month period). As of December 31, 2013, the Company had disbursed approximately $4.1 million in connection with expenses related to the Phase 3 trial, and the Company anticipates that the remaining $0.9 million will be expended during 2014. | |||
As part of the License Agreement, the Company has agreed to (i) pay BioMarin certain royalty payments based on net sales in North America; (ii) to pay to a third-party licensor of the rights sublicensed certain royalty payments based on net sales in North America, and (iii) to pay certain milestone payments that BioMarin is obligated to make (approximately $2.6 million of which will be due upon acceptance by the FDA of a filing of an NDA for Firdapse™ for the treatment of LEMS, and approximately $7.2 million of which will be due on the unconditional approval by the FDA of an NDA for Firdapse™ for the treatment of LEMS). The Company has also agreed to share in the cost of certain post-marketing studies that are being conducted by BioMarin. | |||
e. | AGREEMENTS WITH CONTRACT MANUFACTURERS, CONTRACT RESEARCH ORGANIZATIONS AND FOR LABORATORIES AND OTHER RELATED TRIAL TESTS. The Company has entered into agreements with contract manufacturers for the manufacture of drug and study placebo for the Company’s trials and studies; with contract research organizations (CROs) to conduct and monitor the Company’s trials and studies; and with various entities for laboratories and other testing related to the Company’s trials and studies. The contractual terms of the agreements vary, but most require certain advances as well as payments based on the achievement of milestones. Further, these agreements are cancellable at any time, but obligate the Company to reimburse the providers for any time or costs incurred through the date of termination. | ||
Related_Party_Transactions
Related Party Transactions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2013 | ||
Related Party Transactions [Abstract] | ' | |
Related Party Transactions | ' | |
9 | Related Party Transactions | |
The Company has entered into consulting agreements with one of the Company’s officers and members of the Company’s Scientific Advisory Board. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company paid approximately $10,000, $42,000 and $93,000, respectively, in consulting fees to related parties. | ||
The Company has an employment agreement with Patrick J. McEnany, its Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. Under this agreement, Mr. McEnany will receive an annual base salary of approximately $425,000 in 2014, and may earn bonus compensation based on performance. This agreement expires in November 2016. |
Income_Taxes
Income Taxes | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2013 | ||
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | |
Income Taxes | ' | |
10 | Income Taxes | |
As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had deferred tax assets of approximately $19,387,000 and $15,591,000, respectively, of which approximately $17,685,000 and $13,956,000 represent United States federal and state net operating loss carryforwards and start-up costs. The remaining temporary differences represent non-deductible stock option and equity expense. The related deferred tax asset has a 100% valuation allowance as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, as the Company believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be realized. The change in valuation allowance was approximately $3,796,000, $2,151,000 and $2,012,000 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. There are no other significant temporary differences. The net operating loss carry-forwards of approximately $30,675,000 as of December 31, 2013 will expire at various dates beginning in 2024 and ending in 2033. If an ownership change, as defined under Internal Revenue Code Section 382, occurs, the use of these carry-forwards may be subject to limitation. The effective tax rate of 0% in all periods presented differs from the statutory rate of 35% due to the valuation allowance and because the Company had no taxable income. |
Stockholders_Equity
Stockholders' Equity | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||
Equity [Abstract] | ' | ||
Stockholders' Equity | ' | ||
11 | Stockholders’ Equity | ||
Preferred Stock | |||
The Company has 5,000,000 shares of authorized preferred stock, $0.001 par value per share at December 31, 2013 and 2012. No shares of preferred stock were outstanding at December 31, 2013 and 2012. | |||
Common Stock | |||
The Company has 100,000,000 shares of authorized common stock with a par value of $0.001 per share. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, 54,132,937 and 41,420,687 shares, respectively, of common stock were issued and outstanding. Each holder of common stock is entitled to one vote of each share of common stock held of record on all matters on which stockholders generally are entitled to vote. | |||
2010 Shelf Registration Statement | |||
On December 3, 2010, the Company filed a shelf Registration Statement on Form S-3 (the 2010 Shelf Registration Statement) with the SEC to sell up to $30 million of common stock and common stock purchase warrants. This registration statement (file No. 333-170945) was declared effective by the SEC on December 15, 2010. The Company has to date conducted the following sales of its securities under the 2010 Shelf Registration Statement: | |||
(a) | On March 8, 2011, the Company filed a prospectus supplement and offered for sale to institutional investors 2,259,943 shares of its common stock at a price of $1.12 per share and received gross proceeds of approximately $2.5 million, before underwriting commission and incurred expenses of approximately $300,000. | ||
(b) | On October 28, 2011, the Company filed a prospectus supplement and offered for sale to institutional investors 3,046,740 shares of its common stock together with common stock purchase warrants to purchase 1,523,370 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $1.15 per share and corresponding warrant and received gross proceeds of approximately $3.5 million, before underwriting commission and other expenses totaling approximately $335,000. The warrants issued in this offering, which expire on April 28, 2017 and have an exercise price of $1.30 per share, have been accounted for as a liability. See Note 3. | ||
(c) | On August 28, 2012, the Company filed a prospectus supplement and offered for sale to institutional investors 4,000,000 shares of its common stock together with common stock purchase warrants to purchase 1,200,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $1.50 per share and corresponding warrant and received gross proceeds of approximately $6.0 million, before underwriting commission and other expenses totaling approximately $440,000. These warrants, which will expire on August 28, 2017 and have an exercise price of $2.08 per share, have been accounted for as equity instruments, since they do not contain features (such as cash settlement or anti-dilution features) that would preclude the Company from accounting for these warrants as equity. | ||
(d) | On September 5, 2013, the Company filed a prospectus supplement and offered for sale to institutional investors 8,800,000 shares of its common stock at a price of $1.72 per share and received gross proceeds of approximately $15.1 million before underwriting commissions and incurred expenses of approximately $1,064,000. | ||
The Company has no further availability under the 2010 Shelf Registration Statement. | |||
2012 Form S-1 Registration Statement | |||
On May 24, 2012, the Company sold 6,000,000 shares of its common stock together with common stock purchase warrants to purchase 6,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, at a price of $0.80 per share and corresponding warrant. These securities were issued pursuant to a Form S-1 registration statement that became effective on May 23, 2012 (file no. 333-180617). The Company received gross proceeds of approximately $4.8 million from this offering, before underwriting commission and other expenses totaling approximately $795,000. The May 2012 warrants, which expire five years from their date of issuance and have an exercise price of $1.04 per share, have been accounted for as equity instruments, since they do not contain features (such as net cash settlement or anti-dilution features) that would preclude the Company from accounting for these warrants as equity. | |||
BioMarin convertible promissory note automatic conversion into common stock shares | |||
On October 26, 2012, the Company entered into a note purchase agreement with BioMarin, pursuant to which the Company issued BioMarin a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $5 million. (See Note 8). The $5 million note automatically converted into 6,666,667 shares of the Company’s common stock (at a price of $0.75 per share) on December 10, 2012. | |||
Nasdaq Listing | |||
The Company’s common stock currently trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market. On December 24, 2012, the Company received a staff deficiency letter from The Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”) notifying the Company that it was not in compliance with the minimum bid price requirement set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market. The Nasdaq Listing Rules (the “Rules”) require listed securities to maintain a minimum bid price of $1.00 per share and, based on the then closing bid prices for the last 30 consecutive business days, the Company no longer met that requirement. Under the Rules, the Company had a grace period of 180 days, or until June 24, 2013, to regain compliance. On June 25, 2013, the Company received a letter from the Listing Qualifications Staff of the Nasdaq indicating that the Company had been granted an additional 180-day grace period (until December 23, 2013) to regain compliance with the minimum bid price requirement. On August 1, 2013, the Company received notice from the Nasdaq confirming that as a result of the Company’s common stock closing with a bid price of at least $1.00 for at least ten consecutive trading days, the Company had regained compliance with the $1.00 minimum bid price requirement for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market. | |||
Stockholder Rights Plan | |||
On September 20, 2011, the Board of Directors approved the Company’s adoption of a Stockholder Rights Plan. Under the Plan, a dividend of one preferred share purchase right (a Right) was declared for each share of common stock of the Company that was outstanding on October 7, 2011. Each Right entitles the holder to purchase from the Company one one-hundredth of a share of Series A Junior Preferred Stock at a purchase price of $7.80, subject to adjustment. | |||
The Rights will trade automatically with the common stock and will not be exercisable until a person or group has become an “acquiring person” by acquiring 17.5% or more of the Company’s outstanding common stock, or a person or group commences, or publicly announces a tender offer that will result in such a person or group owning 17.5% or more of the Company’s outstanding common stock. Upon announcement that any person or group has become an acquiring person, each Right will entitle all rightholders (other than the acquiring person) to purchase, for the exercise price of $7.80, a number of shares of the Company’s common stock having a market value equal to twice the exercise price. Rightholders would also be entitled to purchase common stock of the acquiring person having a value of twice the exercise price if, after a person had become an acquiring person, the Company were to enter into certain mergers or other transactions. If any person becomes an acquiring person, the Board of Directors may, at its option and subject to certain limitations, exchange one share of common stock for each Right. | |||
The Rights have certain anti-takeover effects, in that they would cause substantial dilution to a person or group that attempts to acquire a significant interest in the Company on terms not approved by the Board of Directors. In the event that the Board of Directors determines a transaction to be in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders, the Board of Directors may redeem the Rights for $0.001 per share at any time prior to a person or group becoming an acquiring person. The Rights will expire on September 20, 2016, unless earlier redeemed or exchanged. |
Stock_Compensation_Plans
Stock Compensation Plans | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Compensation Plans | ' | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
12 | Stock Compensation Plans | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Company issues options, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights and restricted stock units (collectively, the “Awards”) to employees, directors, consultants and scientific advisors of the Company under the 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) (see Note 2). Prior to July 2006, the Company granted options pursuant to written agreements to purchase an aggregate of 2,352,254 shares of common stock. Under the Plan, 3,688,828 shares of the Company’s common stock were reserved for issuance. At December 31, 2013, 217,604 of these shares remained available for future issuance under the Plan. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock Options | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Company has granted stock options to employees, officers, directors, scientific advisors and consultants generally at exercise prices equal to the market price of the common stock at grant date. Share awards generally vest over a period of 2 to 4 years of continuous service and have contractual terms from 5 to 10 years. Certain awards provide for accelerated vesting if there is a change in control. The Company issues new shares as shares are required to be delivered upon exercise of outstanding stock options. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
During the year ended December 31, 2013, options to purchase 50,000 shares of the Company’s common stock were exercised with proceeds of $23,500. During the year ended December 31, 2012, options to purchase 195,000 shares of the Company’s common stock were exercised on a “cashless” basis, resulting in the issuance of an aggregate of 40,100 shares of the Company’s common stock. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 the Company recorded non-cash stock-based compensation expense related to stock options totaling $175,855, $340,039 and $416,735, respectively. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company granted five-year options to purchase an aggregate of 115,000 shares, 975,000 shares and 625,000 shares, respectively, of the Company’s common stock to certain of the Company’s officers, employees, directors and consultants. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock option activity under the Company’s written stock option agreements and the Plan for the year ended December 31, 2013 is summarized as follows: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of | Weighted | Weighted | Aggregate | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Options | Average | Average | Intrinsic | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercise | Remaining | Value | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Price | Contractual | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Term (in years) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Outstanding at beginning of year | 3,650,535 | $ | 0.89 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Granted | 115,000 | 0.6 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercised | (50,000 | ) | 0.47 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Forfeited or cancelled | (170,333 | ) | 1.2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Expired | (116,296 | ) | 3.04 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Outstanding at end of year | 3,428,906 | $ | 0.8 | 2.26 | $ | 3,999,388 | |||||||||||||||||||
Exercisable at end of year | 3,088,905 | $ | 0.83 | 2.06 | $ | 3,511,386 | |||||||||||||||||||
Other information pertaining to stock option activity during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was as follows: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted–average fair value of granted stock options | $ | 0.48 | $ | 0.32 | $ | 0.79 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total fair value of vested stock options | $ | 166,633 | $ | 348,815 | $ | 438,139 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total intrinsic value of exercised stock options | $ | 17,975 | $ | 45,050 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
The following table summarizes information about the Company’s options outstanding at December 31, 2013: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Options Outstanding | Options Exercisable | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Range of | Number | Weighted | Weighted | Number | Weighted | Weighted | |||||||||||||||||||
Exercise | Outstanding | Average | Average | Exercisable | Average | Average | |||||||||||||||||||
Prices | Remaining | Exercise | Remaining | Exercise | |||||||||||||||||||||
Contractual | Price | Contractual | Price | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Life (Years) | Life (Years) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
$0.47 | 1,000,000 | 3.96 | $ | 0.47 | 699,999 | 3.95 | $ | 0.47 | |||||||||||||||||
$0.69 | 729,610 | 1.17 | $ | 0.69 | 729,610 | 1.17 | $ | 0.69 | |||||||||||||||||
$0.85- $0.90 | 805,000 | 0.98 | $ | 0.9 | 765,000 | 0.8 | $ | 0.9 | |||||||||||||||||
$1.07- $1.09 | 860,000 | 2.48 | $ | 1.08 | 860,000 | 2.48 | $ | 1.08 | |||||||||||||||||
$2.55 | 27,000 | 0.05 | $ | 2.55 | 27,000 | 0.05 | $ | 2.55 | |||||||||||||||||
$6.00 | 7,296 | 0.67 | $ | 6 | 7,296 | 0.67 | $ | 6 | |||||||||||||||||
3,428,906 | 2.26 | $ | 0.8 | 3,088,905 | 2.06 | $ | 0.83 | ||||||||||||||||||
As of December 31, 2013, there was approximately $111,000 of unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock option awards granted under the Plan. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.45 years. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Company utilizes the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to determine the fair value of stock options on the date of grant. This model derives the fair value of stock options based on certain assumptions related to the expected stock price volatility, expected option life, risk-free interest rate and dividend yield. Expected volatility is based on reviews of historical volatility of the Company’s common stock. The estimated expected option life is based upon estimated employee exercise patterns and considers whether and the extent to which the options are in-the-money. The Company estimates the expected option life for options granted to employees and directors based upon the simplified method. Under this method, the expected life is presumed to be the mid-point between the vesting date and the end of the contractual term. The Company will continue to use the simplified method until it has sufficient historical exercise data to estimate the expected life of the options. The risk-free interest rate assumption is based upon the U.S. Treasury yield curve appropriate for the estimated life of the stock options awards. The expected dividend rate is zero. Stock–based compensation expense also includes an estimate, which the Company makes at grant date, of the number of awards that are expected to be forfeited. The Company revises this estimate in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assumptions used during the years were as follows: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Risk free interest rate | 0.45% to 0.53 | % | 0.28% to 0.66 | % | 0.29% to 1.55 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Expected term | 3 years | 3 to 5 years | 3 to 5 years | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Expected volatility | 137 | % | 120 | % | 130 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Expected dividend yield | — | % | — | % | — | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Expected forfeiture rate | — | % | — | % | — | % |
Benefit_Plan
Benefit Plan | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2013 | ||
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | |
Benefit Plan | ' | |
13 | Benefit Plan | |
The Company maintains an employee savings plan pursuant to Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code covering all eligible employees. Subject to certain dollar limits, eligible employees may contribute up to 15% of their pre-tax annual compensation to the plan. The Company has elected to make discretionary matching contributions of employee contributions up to 4% of an employee’s gross salary. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company’s matching contributions were approximately $30,000, $28,000 and $34,000, respectively. |
Quarterly_Financial_Informatio
Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||||||
Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) | ' | ||||||||||||||||
14 | Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||
The following table presents unaudited supplemental quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012: | |||||||||||||||||
Quarter Ended | |||||||||||||||||
March 31, | June 30, | September 30, | December 31, | ||||||||||||||
2013 | 2013 | 2013 | 2013 | ||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Loss from operations | (1,705,430 | ) | (2,653,529 | ) | (3,245,776 | ) | (2,706,923 | ) | |||||||||
Change in fair value of warrants liability | (45,326 | ) | (498,587 | ) | (2,676,601 | ) | 1,330,155 | ||||||||||
Net loss | (1,744,289 | ) | (3,143,590 | ) | (5,912,059 | ) | (1,354,658 | ) | |||||||||
Loss per share—basic and diluted | $ | (0.04 | ) | $ | (0.08 | ) | $ | (0.13 | ) | $ | (0.03 | ) | |||||
March 31, | June 30, | September 30, | December 31, | ||||||||||||||
2012 | 2012 | 2012 | 2012 | ||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Loss from operations | (1,364,710 | ) | (1,067,364 | ) | (1,283,713 | ) | (1,505,353 | ) | |||||||||
Change in fair value of warrants liability | 274,207 | 776,919 | (1,340,566 | ) | 1,419,218 | ||||||||||||
Net loss | (1,089,186 | ) | (289,080 | ) | (2,621,535 | ) | (76,585 | ) | |||||||||
Loss per share—basic and diluted | $ | (0.04 | ) | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | (0.08 | ) | $ | (0.00 | ) | |||||
Quarterly basic and diluted net loss per common share were computed independently for each quarter and do not necessarily total to the full year basic and diluted net loss per common share. |
Subsequent_Event
Subsequent Event | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2013 | ||
Subsequent Events [Abstract] | ' | |
Subsequent Event | ' | |
15 | Subsequent Event | |
Subsequent to year end, on January 31, 2014, the Company filed a shelf Registration Statement on Form S-3 (the 2014 Shelf Registration Statement) with the SEC to sell up to $100 million of common stock. This shelf registration statement (file No. 333-193699) has not yet been declared effective by the SEC. If this registration statement is declared effective, the Company will be able to sell up to $100 million of its common stock. However, if the Company’s public float (the market value of the Company’s common stock held by non-affiliates) falls below $75 million, the Company will also be subject to a further limitation under which the Company can sell no more than one third of the Company’s public float in any 12-month period. Further, the number of shares the Company can sell at any time may be limited to 20% of the Company’s common stock under applicable Nasdaq Marketplace Rules. | ||
Subsequent to year end, during February 2014, 12,696 of the 2011 warrants were exercised, with proceeds to the Company of $16,505. In addition, on February 27, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the adoption of the “Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners, Inc. 2014 Stock Incentive Plan” (the “2014 Plan”). The 2014 Plan will not become effective until it is approved by the Company’s stockholders. The Company expects to submit the 2014 Plan to its stockholders for approval at the Company’s 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. |
Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign1
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||||||
Development Stage Company | ' | ||||||||||||||||
a. | DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY. Since inception, the Company has devoted substantially all of its efforts to business planning, research and development, recruiting management and technical staff, acquiring operating assets and raising capital. Accordingly, the Company is considered to be in the development stage and the Company’s financial statements are presented in that manner in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The Company’s primary focus is on the development and commercialization of its drug candidates. | ||||||||||||||||
Use of Estimates | ' | ||||||||||||||||
b. | USE OF ESTIMATES. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. | ||||||||||||||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents | ' | ||||||||||||||||
c. | CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS. The Company considers all highly liquid instruments, purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents consist mainly of U.S. Treasury bills, certificates of deposit and money market funds. The Company has substantially all of its cash and cash equivalents deposited with one financial institution. | ||||||||||||||||
Certificates of Deposit | ' | ||||||||||||||||
d. | |||||||||||||||||
CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT. The certificates of deposit were issued by a banking institution and are recorded at cost plus accrued interest. The original maturity was greater than three months but did not exceed one year. Interest income is recorded in the statement of operations as it is earned. Carrying value at December 31, 2013 and 2012 approximates fair value. | |||||||||||||||||
Short-Term Investments | ' | ||||||||||||||||
e. | |||||||||||||||||
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS. The Company invests in short-term investments in high credit-quality funds in order to obtain higher yields on its cash available for investments. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012 short-term investments consisted of a short-term bond fund. Such investments are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Short-term investments at December 31, 2013 and 2012 were considered trading securities. Trading securities are recorded at fair value based on the closing market price of the security. For trading securities, the Company charges realized gains and losses and unrealized gains and losses to earnings. Unrealized and realized losses on trading securities for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were nominal. | |||||||||||||||||
Prepaid Expenses | ' | ||||||||||||||||
f. | PREPAID EXPENSES. Prepaid expenses consist primarily of prepaid research fees, prepaid insurance and prepaid subscription fees. Prepaid research fees consist of advances for the Company’s drug development activities, including drug manufacturing, contracts for pre-clinical studies, clinical trials and studies, regulatory affairs and consulting. Such advances are recorded as expense as the related goods are received or the related services are performed. | ||||||||||||||||
Property and Equipment | ' | ||||||||||||||||
g. | PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT. Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is calculated to amortize the depreciable assets over their useful lives using the straight-line method and commences when the asset is placed in service. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease or the estimated life of the improvement, whichever is shorter. Useful lives generally range from three years for computer equipment to three to six years for furniture and equipment and leasehold improvements. Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged to expenses as incurred. | ||||||||||||||||
Operating Leases | ' | ||||||||||||||||
h. | OPERATING LEASES. The Company recognizes lease expense on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term. For leases that contain rent holidays, escalation clauses or tenant improvement allowances, the Company recognizes rent expense on a straight-line basis and records the difference between the rent expense and rental amount payable as deferred rent. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had $21,877 and $22,643, respectively, of deferred rent in accrued expenses and other liabilities. | ||||||||||||||||
Fair Value of Financial Instruments | ' | ||||||||||||||||
i. | FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS. The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, certificates of deposit, short-term investments, accounts payable and accrued expenses and other liabilities, and warrants liability. At December 31, 2013, the fair value of these instruments approximated their carrying value. | ||||||||||||||||
Fair Value Measurements | ' | ||||||||||||||||
j. | FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS. Current Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) fair value guidance emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement. Therefore, a fair value measurement should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. As a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, current FASB guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classified within Levels 1 and 2 of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity’s own assumptions that it believes market participants would use in pricing assets or liabilities (unobservable inputs classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy). | ||||||||||||||||
Level 1 inputs utilize quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs may include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, as well as inputs that are observable for the asset or liability (other than quoted prices), such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, which are typically based on an entity’s own assumptions, as there is little, if any, related market activity. In instances where the determination of the fair value measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. | |||||||||||||||||
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using | |||||||||||||||||
Balances as of | Quoted Prices in | Significant | Significant | ||||||||||||||
December 31, | Active Markets | Other | Unobservable | ||||||||||||||
2013 | for Identical | Observable | Inputs | ||||||||||||||
Assets/Liabilities | Inputs | (Level 3) | |||||||||||||||
(Level 1) | (Level 2) | ||||||||||||||||
Money market funds | $ | 25,693 | $ | 25,693 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Certificates of deposit | $ | 4,011,576 | $ | — | $ | 4,011,576 | $ | — | |||||||||
Short-term investments | $ | 17,483,062 | $ | 17,483,062 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Warrants liability | $ | 1,819,562 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,819,562 | |||||||||
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using | |||||||||||||||||
Balances as of | Quoted Prices in | Significant | Significant | ||||||||||||||
December 31, | Active Markets | Other | Unobservable | ||||||||||||||
2012 | for Identical | Observable | Inputs | ||||||||||||||
Assets/Liabilities | Inputs | (Level 3) | |||||||||||||||
(Level 1) | (Level 2) | ||||||||||||||||
Certificates of deposit | $ | 6,502,825 | $ | — | $ | 6,502,825 | $ | — | |||||||||
Short-term investments | $ | 7,504,444 | $ | 7,504,444 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Warrants liability | $ | 498,587 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 498,587 | |||||||||
Warrants Liability | ' | ||||||||||||||||
k. | |||||||||||||||||
WARRANTS LIABILITY. In October 2011, the Company issued 1,523,370 warrants (the 2011 warrants) to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock in connection with a registered direct offering under the 2010 Shelf Registration Statement. The Company accounted for these warrants as a liability measured at fair value due to a provision included in the warrants agreement that provides the warrants holders with an option to require the Company (or its successor) to purchase their warrants for cash in an amount equal to their Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model (the Black-Scholes Model) value, in the event that certain fundamental transactions, as defined, occur. The fair value of the warrants liability is estimated using the Black-Scholes Model which requires inputs such as the expected term of the warrants, share price volatility and risk-free interest rate. These assumptions are reviewed on a quarterly basis and changes in the estimated fair value of the outstanding warrants are recognized each reporting period in the “Change in fair value of warrants liability” line in the statement of operations. As of December 31, 2013, 1,254,870 of the 2011 warrants remained outstanding. | |||||||||||||||||
Research and Development | ' | ||||||||||||||||
l. | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT. Costs incurred in connection with research and development activities are expensed as incurred. These costs consist of direct and indirect costs associated with specific projects as well as fees paid to various entities that perform research related services for the Company. | ||||||||||||||||
Stock-Based Compensation | ' | ||||||||||||||||
m. | STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION. The Company recognizes expense in the statement of operations for the fair value of all stock-based payments to employees, directors and consultants, including grants of stock options and other share-based awards. For stock options, the Company uses the Black-Scholes option valuation model, the single-option award approach and straight-line attribution method. Using this approach, compensation cost is amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of each respective stock option, generally three to five years. The Company estimates forfeitures and adjusts this estimate periodically based on actual forfeitures. | ||||||||||||||||
For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense as follows: | |||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||
Research and development | $ | 84,728 | $ | 100,221 | $ | 111,283 | |||||||||||
General and administrative | 91,127 | 239,818 | 305,452 | ||||||||||||||
Total stock-based compensation | $ | 175,855 | $ | 340,039 | $ | 416,735 | |||||||||||
Concentration of Credit Risk | ' | ||||||||||||||||
n. | CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK. The financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk are cash equivalents (i.e. money market funds), short-term investments and certificates of deposit. The Company places its cash equivalents with high-credit quality financial institutions. These amounts at times may exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any credit losses in these accounts. | ||||||||||||||||
Income Taxes | ' | ||||||||||||||||
o. | INCOME TAXES. The Company utilizes the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. | ||||||||||||||||
The Company recognizes the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more-likely-than-not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority. | |||||||||||||||||
The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions. Tax regulations within each jurisdiction are subject to the interpretation of the related tax laws and regulations and require significant judgment to apply. The Company is not subject to U.S. federal, state and local tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2010. If the Company were to subsequently record an unrecognized tax benefit, associated penalties and tax related interest expense would be reported as a component of income tax expense. | |||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive Income (Loss) | ' | ||||||||||||||||
p. | COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS). U.S. generally accepted accounting principles require that all components of comprehensive income (loss) be reported in the financial statements in the period in which they are recognized. Comprehensive income (loss) is net income (loss), plus certain other items that are recorded directly into stockholders’ equity. The Company has reported comprehensive income (loss) in the statement of stockholders’ equity as net income (loss). | ||||||||||||||||
Net Income (Loss) Per Share | ' | ||||||||||||||||
q. | NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE. Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, plus the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents, such as convertible preferred stock, stock options and restricted stock units. For all periods presented, all common stock equivalents were excluded because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. The potential shares, which are excluded from the determination of basic and diluted net loss per share as their effect is anti-dilutive, are as follows, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011: | ||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||
Options to purchase common stock | 3,428,906 | 3,650,535 | 3,723,108 | ||||||||||||||
Warrants to purchase common stock | 4,848,620 | 8,710,870 | 1,523,370 | ||||||||||||||
Potential equivalent common stock excluded | 8,277,526 | 12,361,405 | 5,246,478 | ||||||||||||||
Potentially dilutive options to purchase common stock as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 have exercise prices ranging from $0.47 to $6.00. Potentially dilutive warrants to purchase common stock as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 have exercise prices ranging from $1.04 to $2.08. | |||||||||||||||||
Segment Information | ' | ||||||||||||||||
r. | SEGMENT INFORMATION. Management has determined that the Company operates in one reportable segment, which is the development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. | ||||||||||||||||
Reclassifications | ' | ||||||||||||||||
s. | RECLASSIFICATIONS. Certain prior year amounts in the financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. | ||||||||||||||||
Recently Issued Accounting Standards | ' | ||||||||||||||||
t. | RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS. There are no recent accounting pronouncements which the Company anticipates will have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. |
Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign2
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||||||
Fair Value Measurement Specific to Assets or Liability | ' | ||||||||||||||||
The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. | |||||||||||||||||
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using | |||||||||||||||||
Balances as of | Quoted Prices in | Significant | Significant | ||||||||||||||
December 31, | Active Markets | Other | Unobservable | ||||||||||||||
2013 | for Identical | Observable | Inputs | ||||||||||||||
Assets/Liabilities | Inputs | (Level 3) | |||||||||||||||
(Level 1) | (Level 2) | ||||||||||||||||
Money market funds | $ | 25,693 | $ | 25,693 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Certificates of deposit | $ | 4,011,576 | $ | — | $ | 4,011,576 | $ | — | |||||||||
Short-term investments | $ | 17,483,062 | $ | 17,483,062 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Warrants liability | $ | 1,819,562 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,819,562 | |||||||||
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using | |||||||||||||||||
Balances as of | Quoted Prices in | Significant | Significant | ||||||||||||||
December 31, | Active Markets | Other | Unobservable | ||||||||||||||
2012 | for Identical | Observable | Inputs | ||||||||||||||
Assets/Liabilities | Inputs | (Level 3) | |||||||||||||||
(Level 1) | (Level 2) | ||||||||||||||||
Certificates of deposit | $ | 6,502,825 | $ | — | $ | 6,502,825 | $ | — | |||||||||
Short-term investments | $ | 7,504,444 | $ | 7,504,444 | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Warrants liability | $ | 498,587 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 498,587 | |||||||||
Stock-Based Compensation Expense | ' | ||||||||||||||||
For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense as follows: | |||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||
Research and development | $ | 84,728 | $ | 100,221 | $ | 111,283 | |||||||||||
General and administrative | 91,127 | 239,818 | 305,452 | ||||||||||||||
Total stock-based compensation | $ | 175,855 | $ | 340,039 | $ | 416,735 | |||||||||||
Potential Shares Excluded from Determination of Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share | ' | ||||||||||||||||
The potential shares, which are excluded from the determination of basic and diluted net loss per share as their effect is anti-dilutive, are as follows, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011: | |||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||
Options to purchase common stock | 3,428,906 | 3,650,535 | 3,723,108 | ||||||||||||||
Warrants to purchase common stock | 4,848,620 | 8,710,870 | 1,523,370 | ||||||||||||||
Potential equivalent common stock excluded | 8,277,526 | 12,361,405 | 5,246,478 | ||||||||||||||
Warrants_Liability_at_Fair_Val1
Warrants Liability, at Fair Value (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||
Text Block [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||
Calculated Value of Warrants Liability Determined Using Black-Scholes Option-Pricing Model | ' | ||||||||||||
The calculated value of the 2011 warrants liability was determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions: | |||||||||||||
December 31, 2013 | December 31, 2012 | ||||||||||||
Risk free interest rate | 0.94 | % | 0.6 | % | |||||||||
Expected term | 3.34 years | 4.34 years | |||||||||||
Expected volatility | 108 | % | 136 | % | |||||||||
Expected dividend yield | 0 | % | 0 | % | |||||||||
Expected forfeiture rate | 0 | % | 0 | % | |||||||||
Summary of Company's Warrants Liability Activity | ' | ||||||||||||
The following table rolls forward the fair value of the Company’s warrants liability activity for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011: | |||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||
Fair value, beginning of period | $ | 498,587 | $ | 1,645,240 | $ | — | |||||||
Issuance of warrants | — | — | 1,325,332 | ||||||||||
Exercise of warrants | (569,384 | ) | (16,875 | ) | — | ||||||||
Change in fair value | 1,890,359 | (1,129,778 | ) | 319,908 | |||||||||
Fair value, end of period | $ | 1,819,562 | $ | 498,587 | $ | 1,645,240 | |||||||
Prepaid_Expenses_Tables
Prepaid Expenses (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||
Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||
Prepaid Expenses | ' | ||||||||
Prepaid expenses consist of the following as of December 31: | |||||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||||
Prepaid research fees | $ | 1,334,149 | $ | 1,138,185 | |||||
Prepaid insurance | 219,651 | 143,520 | |||||||
Prepaid subscriptions fees | 24,643 | 12,369 | |||||||
Prepaid rent | 7,848 | 683 | |||||||
Other | 23,151 | 14,713 | |||||||
Total prepaid expenses | $ | 1,609,442 | $ | 1,309,470 | |||||
Property_and_Equipment_Tables
Property and Equipment (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||
Property and Equipment Net | ' | ||||||||
Property and equipment, net consists of the following as of December 31: | |||||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||||
Computer equipment | $ | 81,551 | $ | 74,191 | |||||
Furniture and equipment | 51,523 | 49,451 | |||||||
133,074 | 123,642 | ||||||||
Less: Accumulated depreciation | (92,446 | ) | (69,963 | ) | |||||
Total property and equipment, net | $ | 40,628 | $ | 53,679 | |||||
Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Lia1
Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||
Payables And Accruals [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||
Schedule of Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities | ' | ||||||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities consist of the following as of December 31: | |||||||||
2013 | 2012 | ||||||||
Accrued pre-clinical and clinical trial expenses | $ | 1,083,749 | $ | 197,572 | |||||
Accrued professional fees | 117,240 | 51,050 | |||||||
Accrued compensation and benefits | 14,539 | 5,949 | |||||||
Accrued license fees | 65,000 | 15,000 | |||||||
Deferred rent | 2,746 | 765 | |||||||
Other | 5,546 | 10,666 | |||||||
Current accrued expenses and other liabilities | 1,288,820 | 281,002 | |||||||
Deferred rent—non-current | 19,131 | 21,878 | |||||||
Non-current accrued expenses and other liabilities | 19,131 | 21,878 | |||||||
Total accrued expenses and other liabilities | $ | 1,307,951 | $ | 302,880 | |||||
Commitments_and_Contingencies_
Commitments and Contingencies (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ||||
Future Minimum Lease Payments under Operating Lease Agreement | ' | ||||
As of December 31, 2013, future minimum lease payments under the operating lease agreement are as follows: | |||||
2014 | $ | 68,534 | |||
2015 | 70,576 | ||||
2016 | 72,678 | ||||
2017 | 67,828 | ||||
$ | 279,616 | ||||
Stock_Compensation_Plans_Table
Stock Compensation Plans (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Summary of Stock Option Activity under the Company's Written Stock Option Agreements and the Plan | ' | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock option activity under the Company’s written stock option agreements and the Plan for the year ended December 31, 2013 is summarized as follows: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of | Weighted | Weighted | Aggregate | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Options | Average | Average | Intrinsic | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercise | Remaining | Value | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Price | Contractual | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Term (in years) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Outstanding at beginning of year | 3,650,535 | $ | 0.89 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Granted | 115,000 | 0.6 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercised | (50,000 | ) | 0.47 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Forfeited or cancelled | (170,333 | ) | 1.2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Expired | (116,296 | ) | 3.04 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Outstanding at end of year | 3,428,906 | $ | 0.8 | 2.26 | $ | 3,999,388 | |||||||||||||||||||
Exercisable at end of year | 3,088,905 | $ | 0.83 | 2.06 | $ | 3,511,386 | |||||||||||||||||||
Schedule of Other Information Pertaining to Stock Option Activity | ' | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other information pertaining to stock option activity during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was as follows: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted–average fair value of granted stock options | $ | 0.48 | $ | 0.32 | $ | 0.79 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total fair value of vested stock options | $ | 166,633 | $ | 348,815 | $ | 438,139 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total intrinsic value of exercised stock options | $ | 17,975 | $ | 45,050 | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||
Summary of Company's Stock Options Outstanding | ' | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
The following table summarizes information about the Company’s options outstanding at December 31, 2013: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Options Outstanding | Options Exercisable | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Range of | Number | Weighted | Weighted | Number | Weighted | Weighted | |||||||||||||||||||
Exercise | Outstanding | Average | Average | Exercisable | Average | Average | |||||||||||||||||||
Prices | Remaining | Exercise | Remaining | Exercise | |||||||||||||||||||||
Contractual | Price | Contractual | Price | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Life (Years) | Life (Years) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
$0.47 | 1,000,000 | 3.96 | $ | 0.47 | 699,999 | 3.95 | $ | 0.47 | |||||||||||||||||
$0.69 | 729,610 | 1.17 | $ | 0.69 | 729,610 | 1.17 | $ | 0.69 | |||||||||||||||||
$0.85- $0.90 | 805,000 | 0.98 | $ | 0.9 | 765,000 | 0.8 | $ | 0.9 | |||||||||||||||||
$1.07- $1.09 | 860,000 | 2.48 | $ | 1.08 | 860,000 | 2.48 | $ | 1.08 | |||||||||||||||||
$2.55 | 27,000 | 0.05 | $ | 2.55 | 27,000 | 0.05 | $ | 2.55 | |||||||||||||||||
$6.00 | 7,296 | 0.67 | $ | 6 | 7,296 | 0.67 | $ | 6 | |||||||||||||||||
3,428,906 | 2.26 | $ | 0.8 | 3,088,905 | 2.06 | $ | 0.83 | ||||||||||||||||||
Summary of Stock Options Awards Based on Certain Assumptions | ' | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Assumptions used during the years were as follows: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2013 | 2012 | 2011 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Risk free interest rate | 0.45% to 0.53 | % | 0.28% to 0.66 | % | 0.29% to 1.55 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Expected term | 3 years | 3 to 5 years | 3 to 5 years | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Expected volatility | 137 | % | 120 | % | 130 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Expected dividend yield | — | % | — | % | — | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Expected forfeiture rate | — | % | — | % | — | % |
Quarterly_Financial_Informatio1
Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) (Tables) | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | |||||||||||||||||
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ||||||||||||||||
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information | ' | ||||||||||||||||
The following table presents unaudited supplemental quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012: | |||||||||||||||||
Quarter Ended | |||||||||||||||||
March 31, | June 30, | September 30, | December 31, | ||||||||||||||
2013 | 2013 | 2013 | 2013 | ||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Loss from operations | (1,705,430 | ) | (2,653,529 | ) | (3,245,776 | ) | (2,706,923 | ) | |||||||||
Change in fair value of warrants liability | (45,326 | ) | (498,587 | ) | (2,676,601 | ) | 1,330,155 | ||||||||||
Net loss | (1,744,289 | ) | (3,143,590 | ) | (5,912,059 | ) | (1,354,658 | ) | |||||||||
Loss per share—basic and diluted | $ | (0.04 | ) | $ | (0.08 | ) | $ | (0.13 | ) | $ | (0.03 | ) | |||||
March 31, | June 30, | September 30, | December 31, | ||||||||||||||
2012 | 2012 | 2012 | 2012 | ||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Loss from operations | (1,364,710 | ) | (1,067,364 | ) | (1,283,713 | ) | (1,505,353 | ) | |||||||||
Change in fair value of warrants liability | 274,207 | 776,919 | (1,340,566 | ) | 1,419,218 | ||||||||||||
Net loss | (1,089,186 | ) | (289,080 | ) | (2,621,535 | ) | (76,585 | ) | |||||||||
Loss per share—basic and diluted | $ | (0.04 | ) | $ | (0.01 | ) | $ | (0.08 | ) | $ | (0.00 | ) |
Organization_and_Description_o1
Organization and Description of Business - Additional Information (Detail) (2014 Shelf Registration Statement [Member], Subsequent Event [Member], USD $) | Jan. 31, 2014 |
In Millions, unless otherwise specified | |
2014 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | ' |
Organization And Description Of Business [Line Items] | ' |
Maximum common stock to be issued under shelf registration statement | $100 |
Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign3
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Oct. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2013 | |
Segment | October 28, 2011 Warrants [Member] | October 28, 2011 Warrants [Member] | Computer Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||
2010 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | 2010 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | Furniture and Equipment [Member] | Leasehold Improvements [Member] | Furniture and Equipment [Member] | Leasehold Improvements [Member] | |||||||||||
Summary Of Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Maximum maturity period of cash and cash equivalent | '3 months | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Maturity period of certificates of deposit | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | '1 year | ' | ' | ' | ' | '3 months | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Useful life of assets | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | '3 years | ' | ' | ' | '6 years | '6 years | ' | ' | ' | '3 years | '3 years |
Deferred rent in accrued expenses and other liabilities | $21,877 | $22,643 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Number of warrants sold in offering | ' | ' | ' | ' | 1,523,370 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Warrants outstanding | ' | ' | ' | 1,254,870 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Minimum amortization period of compensation cost on straight line basis | '3 years | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Maximum amortization period of compensation cost on straight line basis | '5 years | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stock option exercise price range, Minimum | $0.47 | $0.47 | $0.47 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stock option exercise price range, Maximum | $6 | $6 | $6 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Potentially dilutive warrants to purchase common stock | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 2.08 | 2.08 | 2.08 | ' | ' | 1.04 | 1.04 | 1.04 | ' | ' |
Number of reportable segment | 1 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign4
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies - Fair Value Measurement Specific to Assets or Liability (Detail) (USD $) | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 |
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ' | ' |
Money market funds | $25,693 | ' |
Certificates of deposit | 4,011,576 | 6,502,825 |
Short-term investments | 17,483,062 | 7,504,444 |
Warrants liability | 1,819,562 | 498,587 |
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/Liabilities (Level 1) [Member] | ' | ' |
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ' | ' |
Money market funds | 25,693 | ' |
Short-term investments | 17,483,062 | 7,504,444 |
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | ' | ' |
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ' | ' |
Certificates of deposit | 4,011,576 | 6,502,825 |
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | ' | ' |
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ' | ' |
Warrants liability | $1,819,562 | $498,587 |
Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign5
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies - Stock-Based Compensation Expense (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | 144 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | |
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Total stock-based compensation | $175,855 | $340,039 | $416,735 | $6,138,055 |
Research and Development [Member] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Total stock-based compensation | 84,728 | 100,221 | 111,283 | ' |
General and Administrative [Member] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Total stock-based compensation | $91,127 | $239,818 | $305,452 | ' |
Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign6
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies - Potential Shares Excluded from Determination of Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share (Detail) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Potential equivalent common stock excluded | 8,277,526 | 12,361,405 | 5,246,478 |
Options to Purchase Common Stock [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Potential equivalent common stock excluded | 3,428,906 | 3,650,535 | 3,723,108 |
Warrants to Purchase Common Stock [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Potential equivalent common stock excluded | 4,848,620 | 8,710,870 | 1,523,370 |
Warrants_Liability_at_Fair_Val2
Warrants Liability, at Fair Value - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | 144 Months Ended | 1 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Oct. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | |
October 28, 2011 Warrants [Member] | October 28, 2011 Warrants [Member] | October 28, 2011 Warrants [Member] | |||||
Warrant Liability [Member] | Warrant Liability [Member] | Warrant Liability [Member] | |||||
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Recognition of warrants fair value at date of issuance | ' | ' | $1,325,332 | ' | $1,300,000 | ' | ' |
Number of warrants exercised during the period | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 256,000 | 12,500 |
Proceeds from warrant exercises | $4,083,300 | $16,249 | ' | $4,099,549 | ' | $332,800 | $16,249 |
Warrants_Liability_at_Fair_Val3
Warrants Liability, at Fair Value - Calculated Value of Warrants Liability Determined Using Black-Scholes Option-Pricing Model (Detail) (Warrant [Member]) | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | |
Warrant [Member] | ' | ' |
Fair Value Inputs Assets Liabilities Quantitative Information [Line Items] | ' | ' |
Risk free interest rate | 0.94% | 0.60% |
Expected term | '3 years 4 months 2 days | '4 years 4 months 2 days |
Expected volatility | 108.00% | 136.00% |
Expected dividend yield | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Expected forfeiture rate | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Warrants_Liability_at_Fair_Val4
Warrants Liability, at Fair Value - Summary of Company's Warrants Liability Activity (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' |
Fair value, beginning of period | $498,587 | $1,645,240 | ' |
Issuance of warrants | ' | ' | 1,325,332 |
Exercise of warrants | -569,384 | -16,875 | ' |
Change in fair value | 1,890,359 | -1,129,778 | 319,908 |
Fair value, end of period | $1,819,562 | $498,587 | $1,645,240 |
Prepaid_Expenses_Prepaid_Expen
Prepaid Expenses - Prepaid Expenses (Detail) (USD $) | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 |
Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ' |
Prepaid research fees | $1,334,149 | $1,138,185 |
Prepaid insurance | 219,651 | 143,520 |
Prepaid subscriptions fees | 24,643 | 12,369 |
Prepaid rent | 7,848 | 683 |
Other | 23,151 | 14,713 |
Total prepaid expenses | $1,609,442 | $1,309,470 |
Property_and_Equipment_Propert
Property and Equipment - Property and Equipment, Net (Detail) (USD $) | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ' | ' |
Property and equipment, gross | $133,074 | $123,642 |
Less: Accumulated depreciation | -92,446 | -69,963 |
Total property and equipment, net | 40,628 | 53,679 |
Computer Equipment [Member] | ' | ' |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ' | ' |
Property and equipment, gross | 81,551 | 74,191 |
Furniture and Equipment [Member] | ' | ' |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ' | ' |
Property and equipment, gross | $51,523 | $49,451 |
Property_and_Equipment_Additio
Property and Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' |
Depreciation expenses | $22,483 | $10,889 | $42,835 |
Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Lia2
Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities - Schedule of Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities (Detail) (USD $) | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 |
Payables And Accruals [Abstract] | ' | ' |
Accrued pre-clinical and clinical trial expenses | $1,083,749 | $197,572 |
Accrued professional fees | 117,240 | 51,050 |
Accrued compensation and benefits | 14,539 | 5,949 |
Accrued license fees | 65,000 | 15,000 |
Deferred rent | 2,746 | 765 |
Other | 5,546 | 10,666 |
Current accrued expenses and other liabilities | 1,288,820 | 281,002 |
Deferred rent-non-current | 19,131 | 21,878 |
Non-current accrued expenses and other liabilities | 19,131 | 21,878 |
Total accrued expenses and other liabilities | $1,307,951 | $302,880 |
Commitments_and_Contingencies_1
Commitments and Contingencies - Future Minimum Lease Payments under Operating Lease Agreement (Detail) (USD $) | Dec. 31, 2013 |
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | ' |
2014 | $68,534 |
2015 | 70,576 |
2016 | 72,678 |
2017 | 67,828 |
Total | $279,616 |
Commitments_and_Contingencies_2
Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 1 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||
Nov. 30, 2013 | Oct. 30, 2013 | Jun. 30, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Lawsuits | Lawsuits | Lawsuits | ||||
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Extension period of original lease term | ' | ' | '5 years | ' | ' | ' |
Rent expense | ' | ' | ' | $69,930 | $65,310 | $61,653 |
Operating leases, expiration dates | ' | ' | ' | '2017-11 | ' | ' |
Number of lawsuits filed | 3 | 3 | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Number of lawsuits dismissed | ' | ' | ' | 2 | ' | ' |
Accrued contingent liability | ' | ' | ' | $0 | ' | ' |
Agreements_Additional_Informat
Agreements - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 10, 2012 | Oct. 26, 2012 |
Northwestern License Agreement [Member] | Northwestern License Agreement [Member] | License Agreement with Brookhaven [Member] | License Agreement with BioMarin [Member] | License Agreement with BioMarin [Member] | License Agreement with BioMarin [Member] | |||
License Agreement [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Expiry date of licensed patents | ' | ' | ' | ' | '2023 | ' | ' | ' |
License fee paid | ' | ' | $246,590 | ' | $50,000 | ' | ' | ' |
Accrued license fees | 65,000 | 15,000 | 65,000 | 15,000 | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Milestone payments | ' | ' | 150,000 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Date on which strategic collaboration is entered into | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 26-Oct-12 | ' | ' |
Investment pursuant to strategic collaboration | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 5,000,000 |
Investment solely for purpose of developing Firdapse | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 5,000,000 |
Shares issued upon settlement of promissory convertible note | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 6,666,667 | ' |
Convertible note price per share | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | $0.75 | ' |
Minimum amount to be spent for Firdapse phase three trial | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 5,000,000 | ' | ' |
Estimated time from entering license agreement to completion of double blind treatment phase period of Firdapse phase three trial | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | '24 months | ' | ' |
Paid costs in connection with Firdapse Phase 3 trial | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 4,100,000 | ' | ' |
Minimum amount to be spent on Firdapse Phase 3 trial | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 900,000 | ' | ' |
Milestone payment due upon NDA acceptance | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 2,600,000 | ' | ' |
Milestone payment due upon NDA approval | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | $7,200,000 | ' | ' |
Related_Party_Transactions_Add
Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Related Party Transactions [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' |
Consulting fees to related parties | $10,000 | $42,000 | $93,000 |
Annual base salary of related party | $425,000 | ' | ' |
Expiration date of employment agreement with CEO | '2016-11 | ' | ' |
Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform
Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' |
Deferred tax assets | $19,387,000 | $15,591,000 | ' |
Net operating loss carryforward and start-up costs | 17,685,000 | 13,956,000 | ' |
Valuation allowance | 100.00% | 100.00% | ' |
Change in valuation allowance | 3,796,000 | 2,151,000 | 2,012,000 |
Net operating loss carryforwards | $30,675,000 | ' | ' |
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration date | 'Beginning in 2024 and ending in 2033 | ' | ' |
Effective tax rate | 0.00% | ' | ' |
Statutory rate | 35.00% | ' | ' |
Stockholders_Equity_Additional
Stockholders' Equity - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 0 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 144 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | 0 Months Ended | |||||||
Sep. 20, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Sep. 20, 2011 | Dec. 10, 2012 | 24-May-12 | Sep. 05, 2013 | Mar. 08, 2011 | Dec. 03, 2010 | Oct. 31, 2011 | Aug. 28, 2012 | Oct. 28, 2011 | |
Nasdaq [Member] | Preferred Stock Series "A" [Member] | BioMarin Convertible Promissory Note [Member] | 2012 Form S-1 Registration Statement [Member] | 2010 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | 2010 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | 2010 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | 2010 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | 2010 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | 2010 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | ||||
Warrant Equity [Member] | October 28, 2011 Warrants [Member] | Warrant Equity [Member] | Warrant Liability [Member] | ||||||||||
May 24, 2012 Warrants [Member] | August 28, 2012 Warrants [Member] | October 28, 2011 Warrants [Member] | |||||||||||
Stockholders' Equity [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Preferred stock, shares authorized | ' | 5,000,000 | 5,000,000 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Preferred stock, par value | ' | $0.00 | $0.00 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Preferred stock, shares outstanding | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Common stock, shares authorized | ' | 100,000,000 | 100,000,000 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Common stock, par value | ' | $0.00 | $0.00 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Common stock, shares issued | ' | 41,420,687 | 54,132,937 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Common stock, shares outstanding | ' | 41,420,687 | 54,132,937 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Maximum common stock to be issued under shelf registration statement | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | $30,000,000 | ' | ' | ' |
Number of common stock sold in offering | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 6,000,000 | 8,800,000 | 2,259,943 | ' | ' | 4,000,000 | 3,046,740 |
Common stock offer price per share | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | $1.72 | $1.12 | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Gross proceeds from issuance of common stock | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 15,100,000 | 2,500,000 | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Offering expense | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 1,064,000 | 300,000 | ' | ' | 440,000 | 335,000 |
Number of warrants sold (in shares) | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 6,000,000 | ' | ' | ' | 1,523,370 | 1,200,000 | 1,523,370 |
Common stock and warrants offer price per share | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | $0.80 | ' | ' | ' | ' | $1.50 | $1.15 |
Gross proceeds from issuance of common stock and warrants | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 4,800,000 | ' | ' | ' | ' | 6,000,000 | 3,500,000 |
Warrants exercise price | ' | ' | ' | ' | 7.8 | ' | 1.04 | ' | ' | ' | ' | 2.08 | 1.3 |
Class of warrant or right expiration date | 20-Sep-16 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 28-Aug-17 | 28-Apr-17 |
Underwriting commissions and other expenses | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 795,000 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Warrant expiration period | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | '5 years | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Conversion price per share | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | $0.75 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Convertible promissory note, principal amount | ' | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 | ' | ' | $5,000,000 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Convertible promissory note shares issued upon conversion | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 6,666,667 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Nasdaq listing minimum bid price required | ' | ' | ' | $1 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Number of consecutive business days for basis of bid price requirement | ' | ' | ' | '30 days | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Nasdaq minimum price bid requirement grace period | ' | ' | ' | '180 days | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Last date for compliance of minimum bid price requirement including grace period | ' | ' | ' | 24-Jun-13 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Nasdaq minimum price bid requirement additional grace period | ' | ' | ' | '180 days | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Last date for compliance of minimum bid price requirement including grace period | ' | ' | ' | 23-Dec-13 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Number of consecutive business days above minimum price to regain minimum bid listing compliance | ' | ' | ' | '10 days | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Preferred share purchase right price | ' | ' | ' | ' | $7.80 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Minimum percentage of outstanding stock acquired by a person or group to trigger Shareholder Rights Plan | ' | ' | ' | ' | 17.50% | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stockholders Rights Plan redemption price of right | ' | ' | ' | ' | $0.00 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stock_Compensation_Plans_Addit
Stock Compensation Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | 144 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2013 | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stock options granted | 115,000 | ' | ' | ' |
Stock option contractual term | '2 years 22 days | ' | ' | ' |
Number of stock options exercised | 50,000 | ' | ' | ' |
Proceeds from exercise of options | $23,500 | ' | ' | $23,500 |
Non-cash stock-based compensation expense | 175,855 | 340,039 | 416,735 | 6,138,055 |
Expected dividend rate | ' | ' | ' | ' |
2006 Stock Incentive Plan [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stock options granted | 2,352,254 | ' | ' | ' |
Common stock shares reserved for issuance under the Plan | 3,688,828 | ' | ' | 3,688,828 |
Common stock shares available for future issuance under the Plan | 217,604 | ' | ' | 217,604 |
Stock Options [Member] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stock options granted | 115,000 | 975,000 | 625,000 | ' |
Number of stock options exercised | 50,000 | 195,000 | ' | ' |
Proceeds from exercise of options | 23,500 | ' | ' | ' |
Shares issued for cashless option exercise | ' | 40,100 | ' | ' |
Non-cash stock-based compensation expense | 175,855 | 340,039 | 416,735 | ' |
Stock option granted, contractual term | '5 years | ' | ' | ' |
Unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock option awards granted under the Plan | $111,000 | ' | ' | $111,000 |
Expected remaining weighted average vesting period | '1 year 5 months 12 days | ' | ' | ' |
Expected dividend rate | 0.00% | ' | ' | ' |
Stock Options [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stock option vesting period | '2 years | ' | ' | ' |
Stock option contractual term | '5 years | ' | ' | ' |
Stock Options [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Stock option vesting period | '4 years | ' | ' | ' |
Stock option contractual term | '10 years | ' | ' | ' |
Stock_Compensation_Plans_Summa
Stock Compensation Plans - Summary of Stock Option Activity under the Company's Written Stock Option Agreements and the Plan (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2013 | |
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract] | ' |
Number of options, Outstanding at beginning of year | 3,650,535 |
Number of options, Granted | 115,000 |
Number of options, Exercised | -50,000 |
Number of options, Forfeited or cancelled | -170,333 |
Number of options, Expired | -116,296 |
Number of options, Outstanding at end of year | 3,428,906 |
Number of options, Exercisable at end of year | 3,088,905 |
Weighted average exercise price, Outstanding at beginning of year | $0.89 |
Weighted average exercise price, Granted | $0.60 |
Weighted average exercise price, Exercised | $0.47 |
Weighted average exercise price, Forfeited or cancelled | $1.20 |
Weighted average exercise price, Expired | $3.04 |
Weighted average exercise price, Outstanding at end of year | $0.80 |
Weighted average exercise price, Exercisable at end of year | $0.83 |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years), Outstanding at end of year | '2 years 3 months 4 days |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years), Exercisable at end of year | '2 years 22 days |
Aggregate Intrinsic value, Outstanding at end of year | $3,999,388 |
Aggregate Intrinsic value, Exercisable at end of year | $3,511,386 |
Stock_Compensation_Plans_Sched
Stock Compensation Plans - Schedule of Other Information Pertaining to Stock Option Activity (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' |
Weighted average fair value of granted stock options | $0.48 | $0.32 | $0.79 |
Total fair value of vested stock options | $166,633 | $348,815 | $438,139 |
Total intrinsic value of exercised stock options | $17,975 | $45,050 | ' |
Stock_Compensation_Plan_Summar
Stock Compensation Plan - Summary of Company's Stock Options Outstanding (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices Lower Range | $0.47 | $0.47 | $0.47 |
Range of Exercise Prices Upper Range | $6 | $6 | $6 |
Number Outstanding, Options Outstanding | 3,428,906 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Outstanding | '2 years 3 months 4 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding | $0.80 | ' | ' |
Number Exercisable Options Exercisable | 3,088,905 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Exercisable | '2 years 22 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable | $0.83 | ' | ' |
$0.47 [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices | $0.47 | ' | ' |
Number Outstanding, Options Outstanding | 1,000,000 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Outstanding | '3 years 11 months 16 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding | $0.47 | ' | ' |
Number Exercisable Options Exercisable | 699,999 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Exercisable | '3 years 11 months 12 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable | $0.47 | ' | ' |
$0.69 [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices | $0.69 | ' | ' |
Number Outstanding, Options Outstanding | 729,610 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Outstanding | '1 year 2 months 1 day | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding | $0.69 | ' | ' |
Number Exercisable Options Exercisable | 729,610 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Exercisable | '1 year 2 months 1 day | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable | $0.69 | ' | ' |
$0.85 - $0.90 [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices Lower Range | $0.85 | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices Upper Range | $0.90 | ' | ' |
Number Outstanding, Options Outstanding | 805,000 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Outstanding | '11 months 23 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding | $0.90 | ' | ' |
Number Exercisable Options Exercisable | 765,000 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Exercisable | '9 months 18 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable | $0.90 | ' | ' |
$1.07 - $1.09 [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices Lower Range | $1.07 | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices Upper Range | $1.09 | ' | ' |
Number Outstanding, Options Outstanding | 860,000 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Outstanding | '2 years 5 months 23 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding | $1.08 | ' | ' |
Number Exercisable Options Exercisable | 860,000 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Exercisable | '2 years 5 months 23 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable | $1.08 | ' | ' |
$2.55 [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices | $2.55 | ' | ' |
Number Outstanding, Options Outstanding | 27,000 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Outstanding | '18 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding | $2.55 | ' | ' |
Number Exercisable Options Exercisable | 27,000 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Exercisable | '18 days | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable | $2.55 | ' | ' |
$6.00 [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Range of Exercise Prices | $6 | ' | ' |
Number Outstanding, Options Outstanding | 7,296 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Outstanding | '8 months 1 day | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Outstanding | $6 | ' | ' |
Number Exercisable Options Exercisable | 7,296 | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years), Options Exercisable | '8 months 1 day | ' | ' |
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable | $6 | ' | ' |
Stock_Compensation_Plans_Summa1
Stock Compensation Plans - Summary of Stock Options Awards Based on Certain Assumptions (Detail) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Risk free interest rate, Minimum | 0.45% | 0.28% | 0.29% |
Risk free interest rate, Maximum | 0.53% | 0.66% | 1.55% |
Expected term | '3 years | ' | ' |
Expected volatility | 137.00% | 120.00% | 130.00% |
Expected dividend yield | ' | ' | ' |
Expected forfeiture rate | ' | ' | ' |
Minimum [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Expected term | ' | '3 years | '3 years |
Maximum [Member] | ' | ' | ' |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' |
Expected term | ' | '5 years | '5 years |
Benefit_Plan_Additional_Inform
Benefit Plan - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | |
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' |
Employees contribution of pre-tax annual compensation | 15.00% | ' | ' |
Discretionary matching contributions of employee contributions of an employee's gross salary | 4.00% | ' | ' |
Contributions | $30,000 | $28,000 | $34,000 |
Quarterly_Financial_Informatio2
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) - Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Detail) (USD $) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | 144 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Sep. 30, 2013 | Jun. 30, 2013 | Mar. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Sep. 30, 2012 | Jun. 30, 2012 | Mar. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010 | Dec. 31, 2009 | Dec. 31, 2008 | Dec. 31, 2007 | Dec. 31, 2006 | Dec. 31, 2005 | Dec. 31, 2004 | Dec. 31, 2003 | Dec. 31, 2002 | Dec. 31, 2013 | |
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Revenues | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | $488,958 |
Loss from operations | -2,706,923 | -3,245,776 | -2,653,529 | -1,705,430 | -1,505,353 | -1,283,713 | -1,067,364 | -1,364,710 | -10,311,658 | -5,221,140 | -6,082,139 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | -54,793,296 |
Change in fair value of warrants liability | 1,330,155 | -2,676,601 | -498,587 | -45,326 | 1,419,218 | -1,340,566 | 776,919 | 274,207 | 1,890,359 | -1,129,778 | 319,908 | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 1,080,489 |
Net loss | ($1,354,658) | ($5,912,059) | ($3,143,590) | ($1,744,289) | ($76,585) | ($2,621,535) | ($289,080) | ($1,089,186) | ($12,154,596) | ($4,076,386) | ($6,391,062) | ($4,006,323) | ($7,241,928) | ($10,564,597) | ($4,139,493) | ($2,729,454) | ($1,805,380) | ($539,820) | ($428,615) | ($255,945) | ($54,333,599) |
Loss per share-basic and diluted | ($0.03) | ($0.13) | ($0.08) | ($0.04) | $0 | ($0.08) | ($0.01) | ($0.04) | ($0.27) | ($0.14) | ($0.29) | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Subsequent_Event_Additional_In
Subsequent Event - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended | 144 Months Ended | 2 Months Ended | 1 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Jun. 30, 2013 | Feb. 28, 2014 | Jan. 31, 2014 | |
Subsequent Event [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||
2014 Shelf Registration Statement [Member] | ||||||
Subsequent Event [Line Items] | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' |
Maximum common stock to be issued under shelf registration statement | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | $100,000,000 |
Minimum required public float | ' | ' | ' | 32,240,770 | ' | 75,000,000 |
Maximum percentage of company float allowed to sell under registration statement | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 33.00% |
Maximum percentage of outstanding shares that company can sell under shelf registration statement | ' | ' | ' | ' | ' | 20.00% |
Issuance of common stock for warrant exercises | ' | ' | ' | ' | 12,696 | ' |
Gross proceeds from issuance of common stock for exercise of warrants | $4,083,300 | $16,249 | $4,099,549 | ' | $16,505 | ' |