Novo Nordisk signs inhaled insulin patent deal

Insulin analogue manufacturer Novo Nordisk has announced it has purchased a number of patents for Aradigm’s AERx technology, with the intention of strengthening its patent position in the inhaled insulin market.

This latest agreement between the two companies restructures an existing agreement over licences for electronic delivery systems for inhaled products. Novo Nordisk will pay Aradigm, an American-based company, $12 million (6.53 million pounds) for a number of patents described as “especially important” for inhaled insulin, while Aradigm will retain control of these patents for uses other than insulin glucose control.

A further $7.5 million payment has been made by Novo Nordisk in a five per cent, eight year note, to be made in three equal payments commencing in six years upon the marketing of AERx iDMS product.

Dr Bryan Lawlis, chief executive officer of Aradigm, stated: “We appreciate and are impressed by the significant and increased commitment by Novo Nordisk to both the AERx technology and bringing the AERx iDMS to market in the fight to manage the growing diabetes epidemic.”

“Going forward, it is our intent to balance both partnered and self-initiated AERx opportunities with the goal of full ownership of products in the future,” he added.

In January, the European Medicines Evaluation Agency granted a licence to the first inhaled insulin, Exubera, manufactured by Pfizer. However, a recent NICE appraisal ruled that the drug should only be used in patients with serious blood/glucose level control problems and a proven injection phobia or persistent problems with injection sites.

Eli Lilly is also developing an inhaled insulin product.

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