Norgine and SpePharm to sell Savene to Clinigen

Norgine and its affiliate SpePharm have agreed a deal to sell the product Savene to Clinigen for an undisclosed fee.

The transaction will see Clinigen assume full responsibility for Savene's manufacturing, registration, distribution and commercialisation in all markets, excluding North America, South America, Israel and South Africa.

Meanwhile, in Japan, Savene will be handled by Clinigen through an existing supply and license agreement with Kissei Pharmaceutical, the marketing authorisation holder.

The product is indicated for the treatment of extravasation in anthracycline chemotherapy in adults and is the only authorised treatment of its kind. It has orphan drug status and protection until late 2016, with a worldwide method of use patent until 2020.

Peter Stein, chief executive officer at Norgine, said: "Following a comprehensive strategic review, we believe this transaction represents an excellent outcome to maximise access to Savene for those patients who need it."

This comes after Norgine announced last month that it has commenced a phase IIb trial of a new faecal incontinence therapy, in association with partner Innovacell.