Novartis Buys; FDA approves; Mayne Pharma Launches; Oxford Genetics Receives Grant

Novartis Buys Blood Disease Drug Maker for $665mn

Novartis has acquired Selexys Pharmaceuticals, a drug maker specializing in development of therapeutics in certain hematologic and inflammatory disorders. Novartis exercised its right to acquire Selexys following receipt of results of the SUSTAIN study, a Phase II trial evaluating the use of SelG1, an anti-P-selectin antibody, in the reduction of vaso-occlusive pain crises in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Terms of the deal could total up to $665 million in upfront, acquisition and milestone payments.

US FDA approves Intrarosa to treat dyspareunia

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Intrarosa (prasterone) to treat women experiencing moderate-to-severe pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). Dyspareunia is a symptom of vulvar and vaginal atrophy (VVA) caused by the menopause. It is marketed by Canadian company Endoceutics. Levels of oestrogen during menopause decline in vaginal tissues and may cause a condition known as VVA, leading to symptoms such as pain during intercourse.

Mayne Pharma Launches Temozolomide Capsules in U.S.

Mayne Pharma has launched temozolomide capsules in the U.S. in 5mg, 20mg, 100mg, 140mg, 180mg and 250mg doses. The generic version of branded Temodar, temozolomide capsules are indicated for the treatment of adult patients with newly diagnosed cancerous brain tumors known as glioblastoma multiform concomitantly with radiotherapy and then as maintenance treatment. Mayne Pharma will distribute the drug on behalf of its partner, IDT Australia, which developed the product and is manufacturing the product.

Oxford Genetics Receives Grant to Create Virus Packaging Cell Lines

Oxford Genetics, which develops DNA systems and bioproduction solutions, will work in collaboration with the University of Oxford to generate cell lines for the scalable manufacture of retrovirus and lentivirus vectors. The $1 million program will see the provider of synthetic biology solutions use its newly acquired facilities at the Oxford Science Park to extend its product and service offering into the virus manufacturing space. The program will span 12 months and follows the recent announcements from Oxford Genetics that is has expanded its board to include several industry experts, acquired new state-of-the-art cell line development facilities, and received £2 million investment from Mercia Technologies PLC.