Cubist Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:CBST) has agreed to purchase Exton, Pennsylvania-based Adolor (NASDAQ:ADLR) in a $190 million deal.
Adolor markets Entereg (alvimopan), a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved therapy that accelerates the recovery time following partial large- or small-bowel resection surgery. The drug is an oral, peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist. In the year to June 30, the drug generated $15.7 million in sales.
The deal’s value could rise if Adolor’s second drug, ADL5945 — a treatment for opioid-induced constipation poised for phase 3 clinical trials next year — reaches certain FDA and commercialization milestones.
When Investment Rhymes with Canada
Canada has a proud history of achievement in the areas of science and technology, and the field of biomanufacturing and life sciences is no exception.
Some speculate that the acquisition could spark an interest in drugs aimed at treating opioid-induced constipation, a common side effect of pain medication.
Cubist President and CEO Michael Bonney said: “Entereg is a first-in-class therapy with strong growth potential, and we believe our experienced sales force and strong commercial platform will realize the potential of this important hospital product. With the addition of ADL5945, Cubist will have a truly outstanding late-stage pipeline with three strong candidates addressing significant markets.”
