Although specific financial terms were not announced, Schering will receive an upfront fee, milestone payments and royalties on sales of any compounds successfully commercialized under the agreement.
ADP receptor antagonists are anti-platelet agents that can be used to chronically inhibit arterial thrombosis (formation of blood clots in the arteries) and prevent stroke and heart attack in patients at high risk for cardiovascular events. This high-risk group includes patients with previous stroke, heart attack or established peripheral arterial disease.
The acquisition of exclusive, worldwide rights to this program will provide Pfizer with an opportunity to strengthen its presence in the cardiovascular disease market, which is already supported by leading medicines such as Lipitor and Norvasc.