Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. and Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc. announced a licensing and supply deal for the U.S. rights to commercialize EXSERVAN (riluzole), an oral film formulation of riluzole for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
“Patients are always the central focus of our work as we try to make a difference in their lives,” said Atsushi Fujimoto, President, MTPA. “This licensing deal will enable us to bring patients a riluzole oral film designed to address the needs of people with ALS, including those who have difficulties swallowing some medications. We are honored to have this opportunity to expand our offerings to the ALS community.”
As a result of the deal, MTPA will commercialize EXSERVAN in the U.S. Aquestive will serve as the exclusive sole manufacturer and supplier for the product.
MTPA plans to make EXSERVAN available to patients in the middle of 2021.
“As a company applying innovative technology to improve medicines for patients, we are delighted to be working with a world-leading innovator in ALS with a deep commitment to the patient community,” said Keith J. Kendall, President and Chief Executive Officer of Aquestive. “Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America is the right partner for commercializing EXSERVAN oral film formulation of riluzole in the United States.”
Under the terms of the deal agreement, Aquestive will receive upfront consideration, milestone payments, royalties on net sales of EXSERVAN in the U.S., and will earn revenue pursuant to the exclusive supply agreement.