GlaxoSmithKline signs agreement for HIV treatment

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has made a joint announcement with Idenix Pharmaceuticals, confirming that a license agreement for possible HIV treatment IDX899 has been signed.

This contract means GSK will take on all responsibilities and associated costs related to the novel non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI).

Idenix Pharmaceuticals is to receive an initial payment of $34 million (22.9 million pounds), followed by a potential $416 million more for various milestones. Royalties will be paid to the company if IDX899 is developed and commercialised.

According to GSK, new NNRTIs are required because of the side effects and frequency of viral resistance associated with this group of drugs.

It said IDX899 could be a potential solution as it can be administered daily with a “favourable” risk-to-benefit ratio.

Ahi Hong is senior vice-president of the group’s infectious diseases centre of excellence for drug discovery. He explained: “IDX899 may play a significant role in improving treatment options for people with HIV/AIDS … [it] would be valuable to HIV-treating physicians and patients.”

GSK includes some key facts on its website. One of these is that every minute, some 1,100 prescriptions are written for its products.