Document and Entity Information	6 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information	Jun. 30, 2013	Aug. 13, 2013
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2013
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Trading Symbol	GALT
Entity Registrant Name	GALECTIN THERAPEUTICS INC
Entity Central Index Key	0001133416
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Smaller Reporting Company
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		16,878,180

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 5,099	$ 9,364
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	88	153
Total current assets	5,187	9,517
Property and equipment, net	6	8
Other long term assets	6	6
Intangible assets, net	26	30
Total assets	5,225	9,561
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	285	397
Accrued expenses	1,129	1,161
Accrued dividends payable	79	80
Total current liabilities	1,493	1,638
Other long-term liabilities	5	6
Total liabilities	1,498	1,644
Commitments and contingencies (Note 8)
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Undesignated stock, $0.01 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized, 8,001,000 designated at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012
Series A 12% convertible preferred stock; 5,000,000 shares authorized, 1,562,500 issued and outstanding at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012	632	632
Common stock, $0.001 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, 16,299,627 and 16,060,853 issued and outstanding at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively	16	16
Additional paid-in capital	91,394	80,535
Deficit accumulated during the development stage	(95,131)	(80,018)
Total stockholders' (deficit) equity	(3,089)	1,165
Total liabilities, redeemable convertible preferred stock and stockholders' (deficit) equity	5,225	9,561
Series B-1 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock
Current liabilities:
Convertible preferred stock, value	1,706	1,698
Series B-2 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock
Current liabilities:
Convertible preferred stock, value	3,005	2,900
Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock
Current liabilities:
Convertible preferred stock, value	$ 2,105	$ 2,154

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Convertible preferred stock, redemption value	$ 241,000
Undesignated stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Undesignated stock, shares authorized	20,000,000	20,000,000
Undesignated stock, shares designated	8,001,000	8,001,000
Series A 12% convertible preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Series A 12% convertible preferred stock, issued	1,562,500	1,562,500
Series A 12% convertible preferred stock, outstanding	1,562,500	1,562,500
Common stock, par value	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, issued	16,299,627	16,060,853
Common stock, outstanding	16,299,627	16,060,853
Series B-1 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock
Convertible preferred stock, shares authorized	900,000	900,000
Convertible preferred stock, issued	900,000	900,000
Convertible preferred stock, outstanding	900,000	900,000
Convertible preferred stock, redemption value	1,800,000
Convertible preferred stock, liquidation value	1,800,000
Series B-2 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock
Convertible preferred stock, shares authorized	2,100,000	2,100,000
Convertible preferred stock, issued	2,100,000	2,100,000
Convertible preferred stock, outstanding	2,100,000	2,100,000
Convertible preferred stock, redemption value	4,200,000
Convertible preferred stock, liquidation value	4,200,000
Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock
Convertible preferred stock, shares authorized	1,000	1,000
Convertible preferred stock, issued	215	220
Convertible preferred stock, outstanding	215	220
Convertible preferred stock, redemption value	5,110,000
Convertible preferred stock, liquidation value	$ 2,182,000

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Operations (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		156 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013
Operating expenses:
Research and development	$ 1,349	$ 1,215	$ 3,101	$ 2,116	$ 30,711
General and administrative	1,198	1,453	2,654	2,505	49,690
Total operating expenses	2,547	2,668	5,755	4,621	80,401
Total operating loss	(2,547)	(2,668)	(5,755)	(4,621)	(80,401)
Other income (expense):
Interest income	3	8	8	11	826
Interest expense					(4,451)
Change in fair value of convertible debt instrument					(3,426)
Change in fair value of warrant liabilities					9,022
Other income					691
Total other income (expense)	3	8	8	11	2,662
Net loss	(2,544)	(2,660)	(5,747)	(4,610)	(77,739)
Preferred stock dividends	(277)	(267)	(490)	(464)	(4,725)
Preferred stock accretion	(57)	(57)	(113)	(114)	(4,158)
Modification of warrants	(8,763)		(8,763)		(8,763)
Net loss applicable to common stockholders	$ (11,641)	$ (2,984)	$ (15,113)	$ (5,188)	$ (95,385)
Net loss per common share - basic and diluted	$ (0.72)	$ (0.19)	$ (0.94)	$ (0.36)
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic and diluted	16,236	15,710	16,158	14,360

Consolidated Statement Of Changes In Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock And Stockholders' (Deficit) Equity (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data	Total USD ($)	Series B-1 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock USD ($)	Series B-2 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock USD ($)	Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock USD ($)	Series A 12% Convertible Preferred Stock USD ($)	Common Stock USD ($)	Common Stock Series A 12% Convertible Preferred Stock	Common Stock Series B-1 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock	Common Stock Series B-2 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock	Common Stock Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock	Additional Paid-In Capital USD ($)	Additional Paid-In Capital Series A 12% Convertible Preferred Stock USD ($)	Additional Paid-In Capital Series B-1 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock USD ($)	Additional Paid-In Capital Series B-2 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock USD ($)	Additional Paid-In Capital Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock USD ($)	Deficit Accumulated During the Development Stage USD ($)	Deficit Accumulated During the Development Stage Series A 12% Convertible Preferred Stock USD ($)	Deficit Accumulated During the Development Stage Series B-1 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock USD ($)	Deficit Accumulated During the Development Stage Series B-2 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock USD ($)	Deficit Accumulated During the Development Stage Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock USD ($)
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 1,165	$ 1,698	$ 2,900	$ 2,154	$ 632	$ 16					$ 80,535					$ (80,018)
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012		900,000	2,100,000	220	1,562,500	16,060,853
Accretion of Series B redeemable convertible preferred stock	(87)	8	79													(87)
Accretion of beneficial conversion feature for Series B-2	(26)		26													(26)
Convertible preferred stock dividend (in shares)							15,625	28,490	66,476	17,114
Convertible preferred stock dividend												57	111	260	62		(57)	(111)	(260)	(62)
Conversion of Series C to common stock (in shares)				(5)		8,475
Conversion of Series C to common stock	49			(49)							49
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of options (in shares)	102,594					102,594
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of options	90										90
Modification of warrants	(8,763)										8,763					(8,763)
Stock-based compensation expense	1,467										1,467
Net loss	(5,747)															(5,747)
Ending Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	$ (3,089)	$ 1,706	$ 3,005	$ 2,105	$ 632	$ 16					$ 91,394					$ (95,131)
Ending Balance (in shares) at Jun. 30, 2013		900,000	2,100,000	215	1,562,500	16,299,627

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	6 Months Ended		156 Months Ended
Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net loss	$ (5,747,000)	$ (4,610,000)	$ (77,739,000)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	6,000	4,000	561,000
Stock-based compensation expense	1,467,000	1,352,000	13,841,000
Non-cash interest expense			4,279,000
Change in fair value of convertible debt instrument			3,426,000
Change in fair value of warrant liabilities			(9,022,000)
Write off of intangible assets			351,000
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Prepaid expenses and other assets	65,000	19,000	(91,000)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(145,000)	(435,000)	1,481,000
Other long-term liabilities	(1,000)		5,000
Net cash used in operating activities	(4,355,000)	(3,670,000)	(62,908,000)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment			(431,000)
Increase in patents costs and other assets			(404,000)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities			(835,000)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock and warrants		10,403,000	39,093,000
Net proceeds from issuance of convertible debt instruments			10,621,000
Repayment of convertible debt instruments			(1,641,000)
Proceeds from exercise of common stock warrants and options	90,000		11,383,000
Proceeds from shareholder advances			9,000
Net cash provided by financing activities	90,000	10,403,000	68,842,000
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	(4,265,000)	6,733,000	5,099,000
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD	9,364,000	6,397,000
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD	5,099,000	13,130,000	5,099,000
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE - Cash paid for interest			114,000
NONCASH FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Issuance of equity warrants in connection with equity offerings		4,445,000	9,482,000
Conversion of accrued expenses into common stock		16,000	329,000
Cashless exercise of common stock options and warrants	158,000	190,000	832,000
Conversion and redemption of convertible notes and accrued interest into common stock			12,243,000
Conversion of extension costs related to convertible notes into common stock			171,000
Payment of preferred stock dividends in common stock	490,000	464,000	4,645,000
Issuance of warrants to induce conversion of notes payable			503,000
Issuance of stock to acquire Pro-Pharmaceuticals-NV			107,000
Series A 12% Convertible Preferred Stock
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from issuance of convertible preferred stock and related warrants			1,691,000
Series B-1 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from issuance of redeemable convertible preferred stock and related warrants			1,548,000
Series B-2 12% redeemable convertible preferred stock
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from issuance of redeemable convertible preferred stock and related warrants			3,935,000
Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from issuance of convertible preferred stock and related warrants			$ 2,203,000

Basis of Presentation

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Basis of Presentation

1.	Basis of Presentation

Galectin Therapeutics Inc. (the “Company”) is a development-stage company that is applying its leadership in galectin science and drug development to create new therapies for fibrotic disease and cancer. These therapeutic candidates are based on the Company’s targeting of galectin proteins which are key mediators of biologic and pathologic function. These compounds also may have application for drugs to treat other diseases and chronic health conditions.

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements as reported in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q reflect all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present fairly the financial position of the Company as of June 30, 2013 and the results of its operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 and the cumulative period from inception (July 10, 2000) through June 30, 2013 and its cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, and for the cumulative period from inception (July 10, 2000) to June 30, 2013. Such adjustments, other than nonrecurring adjustments that have been separately disclosed, are of a normal, recurring nature. The Company considers events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued to provide additional evidence relative to certain estimates or to identify matters that require additional disclosure. Subsequent events have been evaluated through the date these financial statements are available to be issued. The results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results which may be expected for any other interim period or for the full year. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company should be read in conjunction with its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.

The Company has operated at a loss since its inception and has had no significant revenues. The Company anticipates that losses will continue for the foreseeable future as is develops its therapeutic candidates. At June 30, 2013, the Company had $5,099,000 of unrestricted cash and cash equivalents available to fund future operations. Subsequent to June 30, 2013, the Company received $2,429,923 from the exercise of warrants for 578,553 shares of common stock. The Company believes that with the cash on hand at June 30, 2013 and the cash received subsequent to quarter end, there is sufficient cash to fund operations through the first quarter of 2014. The Company’s ability to fund operations after its current cash resources are exhausted depends on its ability to obtain additional financing or achieve profitable operations, as to which no assurances can be given. The Company has developed several plans, including cost containment efforts and potential strategic alternatives in the event that such financing cannot be realized by the Company. Accordingly, based on the forecasts and estimates underlying the Company’s current operating plan, the financial statements do not currently include any adjustments that might be necessary if the Company is unable to continue as a going concern.

As shown in the condensed consolidated financial statements, the Company incurred cumulative net losses applicable to common stockholders of $95.4 million for the cumulative period from inception (July 10, 2000) through June 30, 2013. The Company’s net losses have resulted principally from costs associated with (i) research and development expenses, including clinical trial costs, (ii) general and administrative activities and (iii) the Company’s financing transactions including interest, dividend payments, and the costs related to fair value accounting for the Company’s convertible debt instruments. As a result of planned expenditures for future research, discovery, development and commercialization activities and potential legal cost to protect its intellectual property, the Company expects to incur additional losses and use additional cash in its operations for the foreseeable future. Through June 30, 2013, the Company had raised a net total of $68.8 million in capital through sale and issuance of common stock, common stock purchase warrants, convertible preferred stock and debt securities in public and private offerings. From inception (July 10, 2000) through June 30, 2013, the Company used cash of $62.9 million in its operations.

The Company was founded in July 2000, was incorporated in the State of Nevada in January 2001 under the name “Pro-Pharmaceuticals, Inc.,” and changed its name to “Galectin Therapeutics Inc.” on May 26, 2011. On March 23, 2012, the Company began trading on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol GALT. Immediately prior to March 23, 2012, the Company was traded on the Over-the Counter Bulletin Board (“OTCBB”) under the symbol GALT.OB.

The Company is subject to a number of risks similar to those of other development-stage companies, including dependence on key individuals, uncertainty of product development and generation of revenues, dependence on outside sources of capital, risks associated with clinical trials of products, dependence on third-party collaborators for research operations, need for regulatory approval of products, risks associated with protection of intellectual property, and competition with larger, better-capitalized companies. Successful completion of the Company’s development program and, ultimately, the attainment of profitable operations is dependent upon future events, including obtaining adequate financing to fulfill its development activities and achieving a level of revenues adequate to support the Company’s cost structure. There are no assurances that the Company will be able to obtain additional financing on favorable terms, or at all, or successfully market its products.

Accrued Expenses

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Accrued Expenses

2.	Accrued Expenses

Accrued expenses consist of the following:


	June 30, 2013		December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)
Legal and accounting fees	$	83	$	109
Accrued compensation		36		42
Severance agreement (Note 8)		1,000		1,000
Other		10		10

Total	$	1,129	$	1,161

Stock-Based Compensation

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Stock-Based Compensation

3.	Stock-Based Compensation

Following is the stock-based compensation expense related to common stock options, common stock, restricted common stock and common stock warrants:


	Three Months Ended June 30,				Six Months Ended June 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
	(in thousands)
Research and development	$	211	$	359	$	530	$	508
General and administrative		404		520		937		844

Total stock-based compensation expense	$	615	$	879	$	1,467	$	1,352

The following table summarizes the stock option activity in the Company’s equity incentive plans, including non-plan grants to Company executives, from December 31, 2012 through June 30, 2013:


	Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, December 31, 2012		3,539,961		$	5.66
Granted		225,426			3.42
Exercised		(102,594	)		2.57
Options forfeited/cancelled		(109,953	)		6.40

Outstanding, June 30, 2013		3,552,840		$	5.58

As of June 30, 2013, there was $4,962,000 of unrecognized compensation related to 1,315,137 unvested options, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted–average period of approximately 4.1 years. The weighted-average grant date fair value for options granted during the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 was $3.64 and $2.83, respectively. The weighted-average grant date fair value for options granted during the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 was $1.72.

The fair value of all other options granted is determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The following weighted average assumptions were used:


	Six Months Ended June 30,			Cumulative Period from Inception (July 10, 2000) to June 30,
	2013			2013
Risk-free interest rate		0.97	%		1.75	%
Expected life of the options		5.5 years			5.2 years
Expected volatility of the underlying stock		116	%		119	%
Expected dividend rate		0	%		0	%

Common Stock Warrants

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Common Stock Warrants

4.	Common Stock Warrants

The following table summarizes the common stock warrant activity from December 31, 2012 through June 30, 2013:


	Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, December 31, 2012		7,424,241		$	3.71
Granted		5,000			2.65
Exercised		—			—
Forfeited/cancelled		(33,333	)		3.00

Outstanding, June 30, 2013		7,395,908		$	3.74

Warrants Modification

On May 6, 2013, the Company modified the terms of the Class A-2 and Class B warrants that were originally issued to the 10X Fund with the Series B Preferred Stock offering. The Class B warrants were modified to allow for the cashless exercise of all 4,000,000 outstanding Class B warrants. Previously, only half of the Class B warrants allowed for cashless exercise. The Class A-2 warrants for the purchase of 1,000,000 shares of common and all of the Class B warrants had their exercisable life extended by an additional five years. In exchange for these modifications, the 10X Fund agreed to a future amendment of the Company’s Series B certificate of designation to remove the redemption provision such that the Series B Preferred Stock will no longer be redeemable, if and when the Company will no longer be required to issue Dr. Platt a promissory note as may currently be required under the separation agreement (see Note 8). Should the Company amend their Series B certificate of designation in the future as described above, the Company will be required at that time evaluate whether such amendment is to be accounted for as a modification or an extinguishment of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock. The Company has accounted for the modified terms of the Class A-2 and Class B warrants pursuant to ASC 718, Stock Compensation, whereby the Company has recognized a charge for the change in fair value of the warrants immediately before and immediately after the modification. For the three and six month period ended June 30, 2013, the Company recognized a charge of $8,763,000 related to the extension of the 5,000,000 warrants. The following assumptions were used to value the extension of the warrants immediately before and immediately after the modification: a) immediately before the modification—an expected life range of 0.77 to 2.01 years, volatility range of 77% to 96%, risk free interest rate range of 0.11% to 0.22% and zero dividends and; b) immediately following the modification—an expected life range of 5.78 to 7.02 years, volatility range of 113% to 122%, risk free interest rate range of 0.74% to 1.19% and zero dividends.

Consultant Warrants

In January 2013, the Company entered into an agreement with a consultant that provided for the grant of warrants for the purchase of 5,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.65 per share. The following assumptions were used to value the warrants: an expected life of 3 years, volatility of 87%, risk free interest rate of 0.42% and zero dividends. The Company recognized an expense of $7,000 related to these warrants during the six months ended June 30, 2013.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

5.	Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company has certain financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value. Fair values determined by Level 1 inputs utilize observable data such as quoted prices in active markets. Fair values determined by Level 2 inputs utilize data points other than quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly. Fair values determined by Level 3 inputs utilize unobservable data points in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions. The carrying amounts reflected in the consolidated balance sheets for cash equivalents, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximates their carrying value due to their short-term nature. Included in cash and cash equivalents, as of June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company had $2,000 and $583,000, respectively invested in money market funds which had calculated net asset values and were therefore classified as Level 2. There were no level 3 assets held at fair value at June 30, 2013 or December 31, 2012.

Loss Per Share

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Loss Per Share

6.	Loss Per Share

Basic net loss per common share is computed by dividing the net loss available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per common share is computed by dividing the net loss available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares and other potential common shares then outstanding. The computation of diluted net loss per share does not assume the issuance of common shares that have an anti-dilutive effect on net loss per share. Dilutive shares which could exist pursuant to the exercise of outstanding stock instruments and which were not included in the calculation because their affect would have been anti-dilutive are as follows:


	June 30, 2013 (shares)		June 30, 2012 (shares)
Warrants to purchase shares of common stock		7,395,908		7,424,241
Options to purchase shares of common stock		3,552,840		3,291,630
Shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of preferred stock		2,618,772		2,627,110

		13,567,520		13,342,981

Common Stock and Warrant Offering and Reverse Split

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Common Stock and Warrant Offering and Reverse Split

7.	Common Stock and Warrant Offering and Reverse Split

On March 22, 2012, the Company entered into an underwriting agreement relating to the offer and sale of 1,159,445 units (the “Units”) of the Company. Each unit consisted of two shares of Common Stock and one warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock. Pursuant to the underwriting agreement, the Company granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 173,916 Units to cover over-allotments, which they exercised on March 26, 2012. The public offering price for each Unit was $9.00. Each warrant has an initial exercise price of $5.63 per share, is exercisable upon separation of the Units and expires on March 28, 2017.

On March 28, 2012, the Company sold and issued 1,333,361 Units (2,666,722 shares of common stock and related $5.63 warrants to purchase 1,333,361 shares of common stock) for gross proceeds of $12.0 million (net cash proceeds of $10,403,000 after the underwriting discount and offering costs). The warrants were valued at $4,445,000 as of the issuance date of March 28, 2012, using the closing price of $4.20, a life of 5 years, a volatility of 119% and a risk free interest rate of 1.05%. Based upon the Company’s analysis of the criteria contained in ASC Topic 815-40, “Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity” the Company has determined that warrants issued in connection with this financing transaction were not derivative liabilities and therefore, were recorded as additional paid-in capital.

On March 28, 2012, in connection with this underwritten financing as per the underwriting agreement, the Company issued a total of 46,378 common stock purchase warrants to the underwriters. These warrants expire May 2, 2016, have an exercise price of $5.63 per share, and are exercisable beginning 1 year from March 22, 2012 (the date of the underwriting agreement). These warrants were valued at $143,000 as of the date of issuance (March 28, 2012), using the closing price of $4.20, life of 4.1 years, volatility of 117% and risk free interest rate of 0.78. Based upon the Company’s analysis of the criteria contained in ASC Topic 815-40, “Derivatives and Hedging—Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity”, the Company has determined that these warrants issued in connection with this financing transaction were not derivative liabilities and therefore, were recorded as additional paid-in capital.

Effective as of March 23, 2012, and in connection with the pricing of the offering of Units, the Company effected a one-for-six reverse split of its Common Stock. Per the terms of the reverse split, all fractional shares were rounded up.

Commitments, Contingencies and Legal Proceedings

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Commitments, Contingencies and Legal Proceedings

8.	Commitments, Contingencies and Legal Proceedings

Agreement with CTI for Phase I Clinical Trial

On February 1, 2013, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Master Services Agreement (the “Agreement”) with CTI Clinical Trial Services, Inc. and CTI Clinical Consulting Services, Inc. (individually and collectively, “CTI”), whereby CTI is assisting the Company in the design, development and conduct of one or more clinical research studies from time to time. All work performed by CTI for the Company is being conducted pursuant to the terms of work orders that describe the specific obligations undertaken by CTI with respect to any particular clinical research study sponsored or conducted by the Company. Unless otherwise terminated sooner in accordance with the terms of the Agreement, the Agreement will be effective until January 31, 2018.

On February 1, 2013, the Company entered into a work order (the “Work Order”) with CTI in accordance with the terms of the Agreement. The Work Order provides that CTI will provide services with respect to the Company’s Phase I Clinical Trial to evaluate the safety of the Company’s drug GR-MD-02 in subjects with Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (“NASH”) with advanced hepatic fibrosis. CTI is providing the following services, amongst others, with respect to the Work Order: reviewing and providing notices regarding IND safety reports, selecting investigators and monitors for the study, informing investigators of new observations, monitoring the progress of the study and reviewing ongoing investigations, keeping certain records, inspecting the Company’s records and reports, and disposing of any unused supply of the investigational drug.

The Work Order provides for CTI’s anticipated involvement in the study from February 1, 2013 until March 31, 2014. The estimated budget for the Work Order is $2,155,000, which is subject to change as necessary, with payments made throughout the term of the project as the work is performed. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2013, the Company recognized $361,000 and $1,090,000, respectively, of expenses related to this agreement for services performed.

The Agreement or any work order may be terminated for any reason by any party upon ninety (90) days prior written notice to the other party. In addition, the Agreement may be terminated by either party immediately if the other party becomes insolvent, is dissolved or liquidated, makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, files or has filed against it (and does not obtain a dismissal within ninety (90) days) a petition of bankruptcy, or has a receiver appointed for it or a substantial part of its assets, among other reasons. Further, the Agreement or any relevant work order may be terminated immediately by written notice from the Company, in the following circumstances: (1) the FDA withdraws authorization and approval to conduct a study; or (2) the Company reasonably determines that for medical, clinical or patient safety reasons, a study should terminate immediately. In addition, either party may terminate the Agreement or any work order for material breach upon thirty (30) days’ written notice specifying the nature of the breach, if such breach has not been substantially cured within the thirty (30) day period.

Drug Discovery Program with the University of Georgia

In February 2013, the Company established a collaborative drug discovery program at the Complex Carbohydrate Research Center at the University of Georgia. This program is focused on the discovery of new carbohydrate molecules that can be used in the therapy of diseases where galectin proteins play a major role, including cancer and inflammatory and fibrotic disorders. The term of the agreement is effective through December 31, 2013, for which the Company will provide funding of $154,000 during the period as work is performed. The Company has paid $135,000 related to this program through June 30, 2013. This agreement may be terminated by either party upon 90 days notice.

Separation Agreement

In February 2009, the Company entered into a Separation Agreement in connection with the resignation of David Platt, Ph.D., the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors. The Separation Agreement provides for the deferral of a $1.0 million separation payment due to Dr. Platt upon the earlier occurrence of any of the following milestone events: (i) the approval by the Food and Drug Administration for a new drug application (“NDA”) for any drug candidate or drug delivery candidate based on the Company’s GM-CT-01 technology (whether or not such technology is patented), in which case Dr. Platt is also entitled to a fully vested 10-year cashless-exercise stock option to purchase at least 83,334 shares of common stock at an exercise price not less than the fair market value of the common stock determined as of the date of grant; (ii) consummation of a transaction with a pharmaceutical company expected to result in at least $10.0 million of equity investment or $50 million of royalty revenue to the Company, in which case Dr. Platt is also entitled to stock options on the same terms to purchase at least 50,000 shares of common stock; or (iii) the renewed listing of the Company’s securities on a national securities exchange and the achievement of a market capitalization of $100 million. Payment upon the events (i) and (iii) may be deferred up to six months, and if the Company has insufficient cash at the time of any of such events, it may issue Dr. Platt a secured promissory note for such amount. If the Company files a voluntary or involuntary petition for bankruptcy, whether or not a milestone event has occurred, such event shall trigger the obligation to pay the $1.0 million with the result that Dr. Platt may assert a claim for such obligation against the bankruptcy estate. During 2011, when it became probable that the Company could be relisted on a national securities exchange and eventually reach a market capitalization of $100 million, the Company recognized the $1.0 million severance payment due to Dr. Platt and it is included in accrued expenses at June 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

On May 2, 2012, Dr. Platt instituted an arbitration with the American Arbitration Association seeking the $1 million payment based on a claim that the milestone event in the Separation Agreement described in clause (iii) above had occurred. Although the Company had listed its common stock on the Nasdaq Capital Markets as of March 22, 2012, the market capitalization since the listing had not reached $100 million when the arbitration was heard in October 2012. On November 1, 2012, the arbitrator denied Dr. Platt’s demand in all respects.

On October 12, 2012, Dr. Platt commenced a lawsuit under the Massachusetts Wage Act against Dr. Traber and Mr. McGauley who in their capacities as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer respectively can be held individually liable under the Wage Act for non-payment of wages. The lawsuit is based on the facts and issues raised in the arbitration regarding the payment of the $1.0 million separation payment under the Separation Agreement, and other unspecified “wages”. The statute provides that a successful claimant may be entitled to multiple damages, interest and attorney’s fees. Although the Company is not a party to the lawsuit, it plans to indemnify Dr. Traber and Mr. McGauley consistent with its obligations under the by-laws and applicable law, believes the lawsuit is without merit, and intends a vigorous defense on their behalf. On April 29, 2013, the Court allowed Dr. Traber’s and Mr. McGauley’s motion to dismiss. Dr. Platt filed a Notice of Appeal to appeal the Court’s order allowing the defendants’ motion to dismiss.

On March 29, 2013, the Company instituted arbitration before the American Arbitration Association, seeking to rescind or reform the Separation Agreement discussed above. The Company claims that Dr. Platt fraudulently induced the Company to enter into the Separation Agreement, breached his fiduciary duty to the Company, and was unduly enriched from his conduct. Along with removal of the $1.0 million milestone payment under the Separation Agreement, the Company is seeking repayment of all separation benefits paid to Dr. Platt to date. Depending on the outcome of the arbitration, the previously accrued $1.0 million could be reversed. The timing and ultimate outcome of this arbitration, though, is uncertain and there is no guarantee that the Company will be successful in this demand.

On August 1, 2013, the market capitalization of the Company’s common stock exceeded $100 million. As described in the preceding paragraph, the Company had previously instituted an arbitration against Dr. Platt seeking to rescind the Separation Agreement, including the milestone payment provision.

Series C Post Conversion Dividend Rights

In January 2013, 5 shares of the Company’s Series C Super Dividend Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series C”) were converted into 8,475 shares of common stock (consisting of 8,334 shares of common stock for principal and 141 shares for accrued interest at the time of the conversion) which also resulted in the issuance of 5 Series C post-conversion dividend rights (“Dividend Rights”). Under the terms of the Series C, the Dividend Rights entitle the holder only to dividend payments based on actual sales of GM-CT-01 and will not participate in the 6% dividend payable on outstanding shares of Series C following a conversion to common stock. At June 30, 2013, there are a total of 10 outstanding Dividend Rights which were determined to have a de minimis value, because payment of a dividend for the Dividend Rights is considered improbable at this time and the Company has not recorded a liability related to the Dividend Rights. The Company will continue to evaluate and assess the Dividend Rights for each reporting period. At June 30, 2013, the Dividend Rights had a redemption value of $241,000.

Other Legal Proceedings

The Company records accruals for such contingencies to the extent that the Company concludes that their occurrence is probable and the related damages are estimable, except as noted above. There has been no change in the matters reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Accrued Expenses (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Accrued Expenses

Accrued expenses consist of the following:


	June 30, 2013		December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)
Legal and accounting fees	$	83	$	109
Accrued compensation		36		42
Severance agreement (Note 8)		1,000		1,000
Other		10		10

Total	$	1,129	$	1,161

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Common Stock Options, Common Stock, Restricted Common Stock and Common Stock Warrants

Following is the stock-based compensation expense related to common stock options, common stock, restricted common stock and common stock warrants:


	Three Months Ended June 30,				Six Months Ended June 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
	(in thousands)
Research and development	$	211	$	359	$	530	$	508
General and administrative		404		520		937		844

Total stock-based compensation expense	$	615	$	879	$	1,467	$	1,352

Summary of Stock Option Activity

The following table summarizes the stock option activity in the Company’s equity incentive plans, including non-plan grants to Company executives, from December 31, 2012 through June 30, 2013:


	Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, December 31, 2012		3,539,961		$	5.66
Granted		225,426			3.42
Exercised		(102,594	)		2.57
Options forfeited/cancelled		(109,953	)		6.40

Outstanding, June 30, 2013		3,552,840		$	5.58

Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Fair Value of Options Granted

The fair value of all other options granted is determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The following weighted average assumptions were used:


	Six Months Ended June 30,			Cumulative Period from Inception (July 10, 2000) to June 30,
	2013			2013
Risk-free interest rate		0.97	%		1.75	%
Expected life of the options		5.5 years			5.2 years
Expected volatility of the underlying stock		116	%		119	%
Expected dividend rate		0	%		0	%

Common Stock Warrants (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Common Stock Warrant Activity

The following table summarizes the common stock warrant activity from December 31, 2012 through June 30, 2013:


	Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, December 31, 2012		7,424,241		$	3.71
Granted		5,000			2.65
Exercised		—			—
Forfeited/cancelled		(33,333	)		3.00

Outstanding, June 30, 2013		7,395,908		$	3.74

Loss Per Share (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Dilutive Shares Which Could Exist Pursuant to Exercise of Outstanding Stock Instruments and Which Were Not Included in Calculation

Dilutive shares which could exist pursuant to the exercise of outstanding stock instruments and which were not included in the calculation because their affect would have been anti-dilutive are as follows:


	June 30, 2013 (shares)		June 30, 2012 (shares)
Warrants to purchase shares of common stock		7,395,908		7,424,241
Options to purchase shares of common stock		3,552,840		3,291,630
Shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of preferred stock		2,618,772		2,627,110

		13,567,520		13,342,981

Basis of Presentation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		156 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Aug. 14, 2013 Subsequent Event
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents	$ 5,099,000	$ 13,130,000	$ 5,099,000	$ 13,130,000	$ 5,099,000	$ 9,364,000	$ 6,397,000
Proceeds from exercise of warrants								2,429,923
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of warrants								578,553
Net losses applicable to common stockholders	(11,641,000)	(2,984,000)	(15,113,000)	(5,188,000)	(95,385,000)
Net total capital through sale and issuance of common stock and warrants					68,800,000
Net cash used in operating activities			$ (4,355,000)	$ (3,670,000)	$ (62,908,000)

Accrued Expenses (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 28, 2009
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Legal and accounting fees	$ 83	$ 109
Accrued compensation	36	42	1,000
Severance agreement (Note 8)	1,000	1,000
Other	10	10
Total	$ 1,129	$ 1,161

Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Common Stock Options, Common Stock, Restricted Common Stock and Common Stock Warrants (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		156 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 615,000	$ 879,000	$ 1,467,000	$ 1,352,000	$ 13,841,000
Research and development
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	211,000	359,000	530,000	508,000
General and administrative
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 404,000	$ 520,000	$ 937,000	$ 844,000

Summary of Stock Option Activity (Detail) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
Summary of Stock Option Activity (Detail) (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2013
Shares
Beginning Balance	3,539,961
Granted	225,426
Exercised	(102,594)
Options forfeited/cancelled	(109,953)
Ending Balance	3,552,840
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Beginning Balance	$ 5.66
Granted	$ 3.42
Exercised	$ 2.57
Options forfeited/cancelled	$ 6.40
Ending Balance	$ 5.58

Stock-Based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost	$ 4,962,000		$ 4,962,000
Unvested option	1,315,137		1,315,137
Unrecognized compensation cost, recognition period	4 years 1 month 6 days
Weighted-average grant-date fair values of options granted	$ 3.64	$ 1.72	$ 2.83	$ 1.72

Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Fair Value of Options Granted (Detail)	6 Months Ended	156 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	0.97%	1.75%
Expected life of the options	5 years 6 months	5 years 2 months 12 days
Expected volatility of the underlying stock	116.00%	119.00%
Expected dividend rate	0.00%	0.00%

Common Stock Warrant Activity (Detail) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
Common Stock Warrant Activity (Detail) (USD $)	Jun. 30, 2013
Shares
Outstanding, December 31, 2012	7,424,241
Granted	5,000
Exercised
Forfeited/cancelled	(33,333)
Outstanding, June 30, 2013	7,395,908
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, December 31, 2012	$ 3.71
Granted	$ 2.65
Exercised
Forfeited/cancelled	$ 3.00
Outstanding, June 30, 2013	$ 3.74

Common Stock Warrants - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		156 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended		1 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013 Warrants	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013 Warrants	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 22, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013 Before Modification	Jun. 30, 2013 Before Modification	Jun. 30, 2013 Before Modification Minimum	Jun. 30, 2013 Before Modification Minimum	Jun. 30, 2013 Before Modification Maximum	Jun. 30, 2013 Before Modification Maximum	Jun. 30, 2013 After Modification	Jun. 30, 2013 After Modification	Jun. 30, 2013 After Modification Minimum	Jun. 30, 2013 After Modification Minimum	Jun. 30, 2013 After Modification Maximum	Jun. 30, 2013 After Modification Maximum	May 06, 2013 Class B Warrants	May 06, 2013 Class A-2 Warrants	Jan. 31, 2013 Warrant	Jun. 30, 2013 Warrant
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding Class B warrants having cashless exercise rights																			4,000,000
Warrants for purchase common stock shares																				1,000,000
Warrants exercisable life extended period																				5 years
Expense related to extension of warrants	$ 8,763,000		$ 8,763,000
Number of warrants required for extensions	5,000,000		5,000,000
Expected life			5 years 6 months		5 years 2 months 12 days				9 months 7 days	9 months 7 days	2 years 4 days	2 years 4 days			5 years 9 months 11 days	5 years 9 months 11 days	7 years 7 days	7 years 7 days			3 years
Volatility rate,minimum							77.00%	77.00%					113.00%	113.00%
Volatility rate,maximum							96.00%	96.00%					122.00%	122.00%
Risk free interest,minimum							0.11%	0.11%					0.74%	0.74%
Risk free interest,maximum							0.22%	0.22%					1.19%	1.19%
Expected dividend payment							0	0					0	0
Warrants to purchase shares of common stock																					5,000
Exercise price of warrant						5.63															2.65
Expected volatility of the underlying stock			116.00%		119.00%																87.00%
Risk-free interest rate			0.97%		1.75%																0.42%
Expected dividend rate			0.00%		0.00%																0.00%
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 615,000	$ 879,000	$ 1,467,000	$ 1,352,000	$ 13,841,000																	$ 7,000

Dilutive Shares Which Could Exist Pursuant to Exercise of Outstanding Stock Instruments and Which were not Included in Calculation (Detail)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Dilutive shares not included in calculation	13,567,520	13,342,981
Warrant
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Dilutive shares not included in calculation	7,395,908	7,424,241
Stock Options
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Dilutive shares not included in calculation	3,552,840	3,291,630
Contingently Issuable Shares
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Dilutive shares not included in calculation	2,618,772	2,627,110

Common Stock and Warrant Offering and Reverse Split - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended
	Mar. 22, 2012	Mar. 23, 2012	Mar. 28, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Stockholders Equity [Line Items]
Stock issued, shares	1,159,445		1,333,361
Common share issued	2			16,299,627	16,060,853
Warrant to purchase common stock	1
Option to purchase additional units to cover over-allotments	45 days
Additional units authorize for issuance	173,916
Public Offering price	$ 9.00
Exercise price of warrant	5.63
Expiration date of warrant	Mar. 28, 2017
Issuance of common stock and warrants			2,666,722
Gross proceeds from issuance of stock and warrants			$ 12,000,000
Net proceeds from issuance of stock and warrants			10,403,000
Reverse stock split ratio		0.1667
Warrant one
Stockholders Equity [Line Items]
Price per share of warrants			$ 5.63
Warrants to purchase shares of common stock			1,333,361
Value of warrants			4,445,000
Closing price of warrant issued			$ 4.20
Warrant, expected life			5 years
Warrant, volatility rate			119.00%
Warrant, risk free interest rate			1.05%
Warrant two
Stockholders Equity [Line Items]
Exercise price of warrant			5.63
Expiration date of warrant			May 02, 2016
Warrants to purchase shares of common stock			46,378
Value of warrants			$ 143,000
Closing price of warrant issued			$ 4.20
Warrant, expected life			4 years 1 month 6 days
Warrant, volatility rate			117.00%
Warrant, risk free interest rate			0.78%

Commitments, Contingencies and Legal Proceedings - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended					3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended			1 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
	Feb. 01, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	May 31, 2012	Feb. 28, 2009	Jun. 30, 2013 Right	Jun. 30, 2013 Right	Dec. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2013 Subsequent Event	Feb. 01, 2013 Drug Discovery Program with the University of Georgia	Jan. 31, 2013 Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock	Jun. 30, 2013 Series C super dividend convertible preferred stock	Jan. 31, 2013 Common Stock	Jan. 31, 2013 Common Stock Principal shares	Jan. 31, 2013 Common Stock Accrued Interest	Feb. 28, 2009 Minimum
Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items]
Service agreement expiration date							Jan. 31, 2018
Estimated budget for work order	$ 2,155,000
Recognized expenses related to agreement for services performed						361,000	1,090,000
Agreement termination notice period	90 days									90 days
Breach of contract termination notice period	30 days
Collaborative funding agreement										154,000
Agreement related payment										135,000
Severance payment due to Dr. Platt					1,000,000	36,000	36,000	42,000
Cashless stock option exercisable period																10 years
Number of options vested					83,334
Equity investment																10,000,000
Royalty revenue					50,000,000
Cashless stock option exercisable																50,000
Market capitalization					100,000,000				100,000,000
Severance payment period					6 months
Separation based payments				1,000,000
Lawsuit payment			1,000,000
Series C prefer stock converted to common stock											5
Conversion of share, common stock issued													8,475	8,334	141
Dividend rights issued		5
Rate of dividend		6.00%
Outstanding Dividend Rights						10	10
Redemption value of dividend rights						$ 241,000	$ 241,000					$ 5,110,000

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) (Money market funds, Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2, USD $)	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Money market funds \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Fair value of cash and cash equivalents invested in money market funds	$ 2,000	$ 583,000