Pharmaceutical Business review

Astellas terminates licensing agreement with Neurosearch

ASP2314/ACR-16 represents a novel class for the treatment of schizophrenia and other CNS disorders. In 2005, Astellas obtained rights from Carlsson Research (current Neurosearch) to develop, manufacture and market the product worldwide for all indications except Huntington’s disease, and has engaged in the development of ASP2314/ACR-16 for the treatment of schizophrenia.

Astellas said that it has decided to withdraw from further development of ASP2314/ACR-16 due to strategic considerations with respect to the development for the treatment of schizophrenia. The company has terminated the licensing agreement with Neurosearch and returned all the rights regarding the development, manufacturing and marketing of ASP2314/ACR-16 worldwide.