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Teva bolsters neurology unit through Auspex deal

pharmafile | March 31, 2015 | News story | Sales and Marketing CNS, SD-809, Teva, Tourette syndrome, auspex, deutetrabenazine, neurology 

Teva is significantly enhancing its neurology business by acquiring US biopharma firm Auspex in a deal worth $3.5 billion.

Teva says its revenue and core central nervous system (CNS) franchise will be strengthened by the deal, with its president and chief executive Erez Vigodman adding: “We look forward to accelerating the development and commercialisation of the Auspex portfolio based on our infrastructure, capabilities and strong commercial and R&D position in CNS.”

The Israeli firm’s CNS business will benefit with the addition of Auspex’s selection of medicines for people who live with movement disorders. One such offering includes investigational product SD-809 (deutetrabenazine) for the treatment of Huntington’s disease.

In 2014, Auspex reported positive results from its Phase III clinical trial for SD-809 in Huntington’s, with plans to submit a New Drug Application for this indication shortly. It has already been granted orphan drug designation by the US Food and Drug Administration.

SD-809 is also currently in Phase I studies for Tourette syndrome, and Phase III for tardive dyskinesia – a difficult-to-treat condition which is characterised by involuntary movements such as grimacing, excessive eye blinking and pursing of the lips.

“This transaction will enhance Auspex’s mission by bringing innovative therapies to patients across the world as quickly and efficiently as possible,” says Pratik Shah, the president and chief executive of Auspex.

He adds: “The transaction also marks a great outcome for Auspex shareholders and stakeholders as it not only validates our portfolio of drug candidates while delivering significant financial return, but it also puts our programmes into the hands of a company that has the experience and commitment to deliver our pipeline of therapies to patients in need.”

The deal between Teva and Auspex is expected to close mid-2015.

Tom Robinson

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