Allergan Enters into Licensing Agreement with AstraZeneca

On Oct. 3, 2016 Allergan announced that it has entered into a licensing agreement with MedImmune, AstraZeneca’s global biologics research and development arm, for the global rights to MEDI2070. MEDI2070 is an anti-IL-23 monoclonal antibody (mAb) currently in Phase IIB clinical development for the treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe Crohn’s disease. In a press announcement, Allergan said the mAb is Phase II ready for ulcerative colitis and other related inflammatory conditions.

Under the terms of the agreement, Allergan will make an upfront payment to AstraZeneca of $250 million for the exclusive license to develop and commercialize MEDI2070. Allergan may make potential payments to AstraZeneca of up to $1.27 billion, payable over a period of up to 15 years, including launch milestone payments of up to $435 million and sales-based milestone payments of $725 million, as well as tiered royalties on sales of the product. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2016.

MEDI2070 targets IL-23, which Allergan says may allow for a broader therapeutic window and better overall efficacy. MedImmune will continue the ongoing MEDI2070 Phase IIA study in Crohn’s disease to completion and will transition the Phase IIB study in Crohn’s disease to Allergan for completion.

Source: Allergan