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8 September 2016Americas

Aralez buys US and Canadian rights to Zontivity from Merck

Aralez Pharmaceuticals has acquired the US and Canadian rights to Zontivity (vorapaxar) in an agreement with Merck.

Announced yesterday, September 7, the asset purchase agreement includes an initial upfront payment of $25 million.

The companies also entered into a supply agreement, a licensing agreement covering trademarks and certain proprietary know-how, and a transition service agreement.

As part of the transition agreement, Merck will continue to distribute Zontivity on behalf of Aralez for up to 12 months while the product rights, packaging and labelling and other responsibilities are transferred to Aralez.

Zontivity is a drug used to lower the risk of stroke or serious heart problems in people who have had a heart attack or blood vessel disorder affecting circulation in the arms and legs.

Adrian Adams, CEO of Aralez, said the transaction is consistent with the business model designed to “build value organically” through the approval and commercialisation of Yosprala (aspirin and omeprazole), which is currently pending US Food and Drug Administration approval.

“And through seizing high potential growth opportunities through aggressive business development and licensing in our anchor positions in cardiovascular disease, pain management and other speciality therapeutic areas,” he added .