Biopharmaceutical company Critical Therapeutics Inc. said Friday H. Shaw Warren, a co-founder and director of the company since July 2000, is retiring and will be replaced by M. Cory Zwerling, a former executive at Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Zwerling will serve for the remainder of Warren's term, which expires at the 2008 annual meeting of stockholders. The 47-year-old will chair a Strategic Advisory Committee established by the board.

Richard W. Dugan, a member of the board since April 2004, was named lead independent director.

Additionally, Robert H. Zeiger stepped down as executive chairman, but he will remain a director.

Critical Therapeutics focuses on treatments for respiratory, inflammatory and critical care diseases. Shares added 4 cents to $2.32 in midday Nasdaq trading.