Grünenthal acquires Valinor Pharma and Movantik

Grünenthal has successfully completed the acquisition of US-based Valinor Pharma, including its therapy for opioid-induced constipation (OIC), Movantik, in a deal valued at $250 million. This acquisition also covers all royalty obligations associated with Movantik. Funding for this transaction will come from Grünenthal’s existing liquidity reserves.

Movantik, marketed as Moventig outside of the United States, is an oral medication specifically designed to treat OIC in adults who suffer from chronic non-cancer pain. This acquisition significantly enhances Grünenthal’s portfolio of established treatments and bolsters its presence in the US market. Notably, Movantik generated gross sales exceeding $200 million in the United States in 2023.

Grünenthal had already secured the therapy in Europe through a joint venture with Kyowa-Kirin. The acquisition of Valinor now grants Grünenthal the worldwide rights to Movantik, excluding Canada. Marv Kelly, President of Grünenthal US, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating: “We are excited to welcome Valinor and expand our portfolio offering to pain specialists with Movantik.”

Since 2017, Grünenthal has been steadily expanding its portfolio by acquiring several products. These include Nebido, the European rights to Crestor and Nexium, and the global rights to Vimovo, Qutenza, and Zomig, though Japan is an exception for the latter two. In 2023, Grünenthal further solidified its position through a joint venture with Kyowa Kirin International, known as Grünenthal Meds. This joint venture oversees a pain-management-focused portfolio that includes 13 brands.

Grünenthal has invested over €2 billion in successful mergers and acquisitions to date. CEO Gabriel Baertschi commented on the strategic fit of Movantik within Grünenthal’s product lineup, noting: “As a pain specialist, Movantik is a perfect fit for Grünenthal with our existing customer base and complementary product portfolio. The acquisition of Valinor Pharma strengthens our footprint in the United States, the most important growth market for Grünenthal.”

The acquisition aligns with Grünenthal’s broader strategy to expand its product portfolio, particularly in the realm of pain management. By incorporating Movantik, Grünenthal not only diversifies its offerings but also enhances its ability to address various aspects of pain management, thus providing comprehensive care options for patients.

With this acquisition, Grünenthal continues to demonstrate its commitment to growth and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. The integration of Valinor Pharma and its products into Grünenthal’s portfolio is expected to yield significant benefits, particularly in the US market where the demand for effective pain management therapies continues to rise. This strategic move underscores Grünenthal’s dedication to expanding its reach and enhancing its capabilities in providing specialized treatments to patients worldwide.

Overall, the acquisition of Valinor Pharma and Movantik represents a significant step forward for Grünenthal, reinforcing its position as a leading player in the field of pain management and expanding its influence in key markets.