Pharmaceutical Business review

King buys rights to Pain Therapeutics drug

Remoxy is an investigational drug in late-stage clinical development by Pain Therapeutics for the treatment of moderate-to-severe chronic pain.

Under the terms of the agreement, King will make an upfront payment of $150 million in cash to Pain Therapeutics. Pain Therapeutics could also receive additional milestone payments of up to $150 million in cash based on the successful clinical and regulatory development of Remoxy and other abuse-resistant opioid products.

This amount includes a $15 million cash payment upon acceptance of a regulatory filing for Remoxy and an additional $15 million upon its approval. King is responsible for all R&D expenses related to this alliance, which could total $100 million.

“Today’s announcement underscores King’s commitment to form strategic alliances with companies at the forefront of drug development. We are confident our alliance with Pain Therapeutics adds considerable strength to King’s pipeline and positions both companies for solid long-term growth,” stated Brian Markison, president and chief executive officer of King Pharmaceuticals.