Acadia Pharma Secures Exclusive License for SAN711 from Saniona

Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. has disclosed an exclusive worldwide license agreement with Saniona for the advancement and commercialization of SAN711. SAN711, a pioneering and highly selective GABA A-α3 positive allosteric modulator, is marked for development, initially focusing on essential tremor. Essential tremor is a neurological disorder that manifests through involuntary shaking or trembling in various body parts. Acadia plans to commence a Phase 2 clinical trial for SAN711 targeting essential tremor in 2026.

Catherine Owen Adams, the CEO of Acadia Pharmaceuticals, emphasized the significance of licensing SAN711 as a strategic move to broaden their pipeline and strengthen their dedication to offering novel therapies for central nervous system disorders. Highlighting the lack of innovation in treating essential tremor over the past decades, Adams pointed out the substantial opportunity to address a pressing and unmet medical need. Acadia aims to leverage its extensive experience in developing and marketing advanced treatments for neurological conditions in its approach to SAN711.

As per the terms of the agreement, Saniona will receive an initial payment of $28 million, along with potential milestone payments that could total up to $582 million. Additionally, Saniona is entitled to tiered royalties ranging from mid-single digits to low double digits based on the net sales of any commercial products derived from SAN711's development. The milestone payments to Saniona include up to $147 million dependent on achieving development and commercial milestones for potential first and second indications and up to $435 million contingent on meeting specified annual global net sales thresholds for SAN711.

Acadia Pharmaceuticals will assume responsibility for further clinical development, regulatory submissions, and worldwide commercialization efforts for SAN711. Moreover, Acadia will provide financial backing for Saniona’s ongoing Phase 1 study and the preparations for a Phase 2 trial.

Acadia Pharmaceuticals has carved a niche in neuroscience, dedicating itself to breakthroughs that enhance lives. Since its inception, the company has pioneered significant healthcare advancements, including the development and commercialization of the first and only FDA-approved medication to treat hallucinations and delusions associated with Parkinson’s disease psychosis. Additionally, Acadia introduced the only approved treatment in the United States and Canada for Rett syndrome. Acadia's ongoing clinical-stage ventures extend to conditions such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease psychosis, and several other programs focusing on neuropsychiatric symptoms within central nervous system disorders.