Cephalon to acquire muscle relaxant Amrix

Cephalon has announced that it has signed an agreement with ECR Pharmaceuticals to acquire the rights to Amrix (cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride extended-release capsules).

The drug was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 15 mg and 30 mg doses in February 2007 for use as a short-term treatment for muscle spasm associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions as an adjunctive treatment with physical therapy and rest.

Under the terms of the agreement, Cephalon will pay ECR $100 million (50.4 million pounds) in cash for the North American rights to the compound, with Cephalon expecting to launch the drug in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Cephalon will also pay ECR further payments upon the achievement of specified cumulative net sales.

Robert Roche, executive vice-president of worldwide pharmaceutical operations at the firm, said: “Amrix is an excellent strategic fit with our current sales organization, providing us with a second product that is complementary to many pain relievers used today.”

He added that the drug has a “convenient” once-a-day dosing regiment with an adverse effect profile boasting low rates of sedation which will result in the provision of an appealing alternative to existing treatments for doctors and patients.

Earlier this month, Cephalon announced positive results from a phase III clinical trial assessing the use of Fentora (fentanyl buccal tablet) [C-II] as a therapy for chronic breakthrough pain in non-cancer indications.