Astellas and Leo Pharma complete dermatology business transfer

Astellas has completed the sale of its global dermatology business, announced in November 2015, to Leo Pharma.

The companies have completed the relevant closing conditions for the asset purchase agreement, which involves the transfer of Astellas' global portfolio of dermatology products to Leo Pharma, including the eczema treatment Protopic and other products for the treatment of acne and skin infections.

Astellas has received 675 million euros (547.23 million pounds) following the completion of the deal, with the two companies set to continue to work closely together in order to ensure an effective transition, with no disruption of supply to patients.

The deal does not include distribution rights to Protopic in Astellas' home territory of Japan, which were sold to Maruho in April 2014.

Astellas has sold off its dermatology business in order to increase its focus on its core therapeutic focus areas of urology, oncology, immunology, nephrology and neuroscience.