GlaxoSmithKline signs UK deal for erectile dysfunction product

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has entered into a partnership with Guildford-based Futura Medical for a treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED).

Futura, a pharmaceutical company specialising in sexual health, has developed a topically-applied gel called MED2002. The company claims that it would be the world’s first over-the-counter pharmaceutical treatment for men with ED.

GSK will provide regulatory and technical support for the development of the drug. The pharmaceutical giant will contribute 65 per cent of clinical development costs and receive global marketing rights until the patents run out, expected to be during 2024.

Futura will pay the remaining 35 per cent of development costs and offer GSK first option on two other projects in early-stage development, including a treatment for arousal and desire disorders for women with female sexual dysfunction and a non-prescription treatment for premature ejaculation.

Paul Berman, GSK Consumer Healthcare’s vice-president of business development and strategic planning, remarked: “This is a very exciting new business opportunity for GSK Consumer Healthcare, one that meets a significant unmet need in the marketplace and the prospect to be the first regulatory approved non-prescription erectile dysfunction product is compelling.”

“We have an extensive clinical development program ahead and we look forward to working with Futura Medical to fulfil this opportunity,” he added.

Futura’s chief executive, James Barder, added: “We look forward to continuing this extensive collaboration and converting the potential of MED2002 into a leading product as the world’s first licensed non-prescription treatment for men with erectile dysfunction.”

BUPA describes ED as one of the most common sexual problems and it affects approximately half of men over the age of 40 at some point. However, only a fraction will seek medical help.

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