AbbVie and Gedeon Richter Launch Collaboration for Neuropsychiatric Target Discovery

AbbVie and Gedeon Richter Forge New Agreement to Develop Neuropsychiatric Therapies

In an effort to advance treatment for neuropsychiatric conditions, AbbVie and Gedeon Richter have announced a new agreement to discover and co-develop novel therapeutic targets. This new partnership builds on a nearly two-decade-long collaboration between the two companies, which has previously yielded significant products in the central nervous system (CNS) domain, such as cariprazine (VRAYLAR®/REAGILA®) and the investigational ABBV-932, intended for bipolar depression and generalized anxiety disorder.

Jonathon Sedgwick, Ph.D., senior vice president and head of discovery research at AbbVie, emphasized the critical need for innovative approaches in treating neuropsychiatric disorders. He expressed enthusiasm about expanding the existing partnership with Richter to address these complex medical challenges. Gábor Orbán, CEO of Gedeon Richter, echoed Sedgwick's sentiments, highlighting the new agreement as a testament to the robust scientific foundation of Richter’s discovery platform.

As per the agreement, the collaboration encompasses both preclinical and clinical research and development (R&D) efforts, with financial contributions from both companies. Gedeon Richter will receive an initial cash payment of $25 million and could gain additional payments based on development, regulatory, and commercialization milestones. Furthermore, Richter may earn royalties based on sales, while AbbVie retains global commercialization rights, excluding Richter's traditional markets, such as Europe, Russia, CIS countries, and Vietnam.

AbbVie and Gedeon Richter have a longstanding history of successful collaboration, focusing on CNS disorders. This new initiative aims to harness and build upon their previous achievements to develop new treatments for various neuropsychiatric conditions.

VRAYLAR® (cariprazine) is a significant product resulting from their collaboration, approved for multiple uses in adults including the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in combination with antidepressants, acute treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, treatment of depressive episodes in bipolar I disorder, and schizophrenia.

However, the use of VRAYLAR is accompanied by several important safety considerations. For instance, elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis face an increased risk of death when taking such medications. VRAYLAR is not approved for this demographic. Additionally, VRAYLAR and antidepressants may elevate the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in some young individuals, particularly during the initial months of treatment or when the dosage is altered.

Serious side effects of VRAYLAR can include neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal condition characterized by symptoms like high fever, stiff muscles, and confusion. Tardive dyskinesia, marked by uncontrollable body movements, can also occur and sometimes persists even after discontinuation of the drug. Metabolic issues such as high blood sugar and diabetes, increased fat levels, and weight gain are also potential risks. Other side effects include low white blood cell counts, decreased blood pressure upon standing, and falls due to dizziness or drowsiness.

Patients are advised against operating heavy machinery or driving until they understand how VRAYLAR affects them due to potential drowsiness and impairment in thinking and motor skills. It's also important to avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated while taking VRAYLAR.

Before starting VRAYLAR, patients should inform their healthcare provider about their medical history, including any heart problems, blood pressure issues, diabetes, cholesterol levels, seizures, kidney or liver problems, low white blood cell count, pregnancy intentions, or breastfeeding.

Common side effects of VRAYLAR include difficulty moving, tremors, restlessness, sleepiness, nausea, constipation, and dizziness. These are not exhaustive, and patients are encouraged to discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.

The collaboration between AbbVie and Gedeon Richter aims to leverage their combined expertise to bring forth new treatments for neuropsychiatric conditions, continuing their legacy of innovative CNS therapies.