Nature of Operations

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2018

Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]

1.	Nature of Operations

Catalyst Biosciences, Inc. and its subsidiary (the “Company” or “Catalyst”) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing novel medicines to address hematology indications, including the treatment of hemophilia. Its facilities are in South San Francisco, California and it operates in one segment. Prior to August 20, 2015, the name of the Company was Targacept, Inc. (“Targacept”). On August 20, 2015, Targacept completed its business combination with Catalyst (the “Merger”).

Based on the current status of its research and development plans, the Company believes that its existing cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments as of June 30, 2018 will be sufficient to fund its cash requirements for at least the next 12 months from the date of the filing of this quarterly report. If, at any time, the Company’s prospects for financing its research and development programs decline, the Company may decide to reduce research and development expenses by delaying, discontinuing or reducing its funding of one or more of its research or development programs. Alternatively, the Company might raise funds through strategic collaborations, public or private financings or other arrangements. Such funding, if needed, may not be available on favorable terms, or at all.