In a groundbreaking move, Menarini Asia-Pacific has joined forces with Astellas Pharma Inc., setting the stage for a dynamic partnership aimed at revolutionizing the treatment landscape for rheumatoid arthritis in Taiwan. The collaboration centers around Smyraf®—an orally administered Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor available in 50 mg and 100 mg Tablets (generic name: peficitinib hydrobromide). Smyraf® has already received approval in Taiwan and boasts patent protection for its composition until the year 2032.
Under the terms of this strategic agreement, Astellas stands to gain total payments of up to €5.5 million, inclusive of upfront and milestone payments. Additionally, Menarini has committed to paying Astellas high-single digit percentage royalties on the net sales of Smyraf®. What’s more, Menarini may exercise an option to extend its rights to encompass select South-East Asian markets.
Smyraf®, originally developed and successfully marketed in Japan by Astellas, has gained acclaim for its efficacy in treating rheumatoid arthritis. This includes not only symptom management but also the prevention of structural joint damage, offering hope to patients who have found conventional therapies lacking.
Rheumatoid arthritis, a persistent autoimmune disorder wreaking havoc on joints, continues to be a pressing health concern, especially in Taiwan. With an estimated prevalence rate of 287.0 per 100,000 individuals in the country, the need for advanced diagnostic and treatment solutions is paramount—particularly given the challenges posed by an aging population.
Maurizio Luongo, the Chief Executive Officer of Menarini Asia-Pacific, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing Menarini’s track record as a trusted partner for numerous biopharmaceutical companies across the Asia-Pacific region. He highlighted Smyraf®’s role in offering patients a valuable alternative when conventional treatments fall short, thanks to its proven efficacy and flexible dosing options.
About Menarini Asia-Pacific
Menarini Asia-Pacific, a proud member of the illustrious Menarini Group, brings a rich legacy of over 130 years to the global biopharmaceutical arena. With a remarkable presence spanning over 140 countries and a workforce of over 17,000 dedicated professionals, the Menarini Group stands as the world’s largest Italian biopharmaceutical powerhouse.
Here in the vibrant and diverse Asia-Pacific region, Menarini envisions itself as a trailblazing provider of essential healthcare brands. Their mission is crystal clear: to enhance the lives of people throughout the region. Menarini Asia-Pacific operates seamlessly across the entire commercial spectrum, from pioneering clinical development and navigating regulatory approvals to orchestrating successful product launches and ensuring sustained lifecycle management.
Their extensive portfolio encompasses a captivating array of proprietary and collaborative brands across critical therapeutic domains. These include Consumer Health, Dermatology, Allergy/Respiratory, Gastroenterology, Cardio-metabolic, Anti-infectives, Oncology/Specialty Care, and Men’s Health.
In a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence, the Menarini Group achieved a remarkable revenue milestone of 4.15 billion euros for the Financial Year 2022. What’s more, the Asia Pacific region emerged as a dynamic growth engine for the Group, contributing over 10% of its total revenue.
With a legacy steeped in innovation and a global footprint that continues to expand, Menarini is not just a biopharmaceutical company; it’s a visionary force shaping the future of healthcare worldwide.