Hikma and Vectura collaborate to develop GSK generics
Jordan-based Hikma Pharmaceuticals and British pharmaceutical company Vectura Group have united to develop generic versions of GSK’s Ellipta respiratory products.
Under the agreement, which was announced on Thursday, November 8, Hikma will pay Vectura $15 million upfront.
Hikma said that interactions with the US Food and Drug Administration have led the companies to believe that Vectura’s “open-inhale-close dry powder” inhaler device has the potential to be developed as a generic version of GSK’s products.
Vectura will be responsible for, and fund, initial device and formulation development, while Hikma will cover clinical development, regulatory submission and commercialisation.
Hikma and Vectura will work together to develop generics of up to five of GSK’s respiratory medicines, and the companies have agreed to develop and commercialise at least three of the portfolio products.
A generic version of Breo Ellipta (fluticasone furoate and vilanterol trifenatate) has been prioritised for the first wave of development. GSK’s Breo Ellipta is used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma in adults.
Siggi Olafsson, CEO of Hikma, said: “The generic respiratory market is a key area of pipeline focus for Hikma. This agreement leverages the investment we have made and the experience we have gained through our generic Advair Diskus programme.”
The two companies have worked together on a generic formulation of GSK’s asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary syndrome therapy Advair Diskus.
Olafsson added: “By strengthening and expanding our partnership with Vectura, we will develop a pipeline of complex respiratory products that will enable us to deliver sustainable long-term growth.”
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