The FDA approved Qutenza is for neuropathic pain management related with postherpetic neuralgia, while NP-1998 is a Phase 3 ready, prescription strength capsaicin topical solution under evaluation to treat neuropathic pain.
As part of the transaction, approximately $8m payment was made by Acorda to NeurogesX for development and commercialization rights for Qutenza and NP-1998 in the US, Canada, Latin America and certain other territories.
Additionally, $7m was paid to NeurogesX and approximately $900,000 for certain assumed accounts payable, while $5m in payments contingent on achieving certain regulatory and sales milestones related to NP-1998.
Qutenza’s exclusive commercialization rights are held by Astellas Pharma Europe in the EEA, including EU’s 27 countries, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein as well as Switzerland, certain countries in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The company also vests an option to develop NP-1998 in those same territories.
Clinical trials of Qutenza, including a Phase 3 trial to assess its use in the treatment of pain associated with PDN is currently carried out by Astellas.
Acorda will have rights to review data from that trial, and the companies may also collaborate and/or share costs of future clinical trials.