Novartis has signed a licensing agreement with Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Sunovion) for the US commercial rights to its three treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Utibron™ Neohaler® (indacaterol/glycopyrrolate) inhalation powder, Seebri™ Neohaler® (glycopyrrolate) inhalation powder, and Arcapta®Neohaler® (indacaterol) inhalation powder.
This deal is specific to the US only and has no implications outside this market. Novartis will continue to manufacture these medicines for Sunovion. Novartis will also continue to bring Ultibro® Breezhaler® (indacaterol/glycopyrronium), Seebri®Breezhaler® (glycopyrronium) and Onbrez® Breezhaler® (indacaterol) to patients living with COPD outside of the US.
"Given the evolving market dynamics, we believe these products will have the greatest impact in the US when commercialized by a company with an established presence in the COPD field," said Fabrice Chouraqui, President of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. "Novartis will continue to focus on areas in the US where we have strong capabilities and leadership, and can bring the greatest value to physicians and patients."
Outside the US, Novartis' indacaterol/glycopyrronium formulation Ultibro Breezhaler 110/50 mcg administered once-daily is the leading therapy in sales in its class. In all markets other than the US, Novartis has a full respiratory presence and portfolio and is committed to building category leadership and meeting the evolving needs of patients living with respiratory diseases including asthma and COPD. The COPD portfolio remains a global priority for Novartis.
In the US, Novartis remains committed to improving care across respiratory diseases including asthma and cystic fibrosis and, through its pipeline, anticipates expanding its respiratory portfolio.