Helsinn and Angelini Pharma renew AULIN and MESULID distribution agreement

Helsinn Group has reaffirmed its collaboration with Angelini Pharma by renewing their distribution and license agreement for the commercialization of AULIN and MESULID (Nimesulide) in six European nations. These countries include Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and the Slovak Republic. The non-selective, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) AULIN and MESULID are prescribed as oral tablets and granules for oral suspension, used predominantly as a second-line treatment for acute pain and primary dysmenorrhea.

Additionally, AULIN is available as a gel under the brand name AulinDol, which can be obtained either by prescription or over the counter. This gel is particularly aimed at alleviating pain associated with sprains and acute traumatic tendinitis.

Helsinn Group's CEO, Dr. Melanie Rolli, expressed satisfaction with the renewed agreement, highlighting the importance of the long-standing partnership with Angelini Pharma. Dr. Rolli elaborated on how this collaboration exemplifies Helsinn's commitment to forming alliances that ensure essential treatments reach patients. She praised Angelini's wide reach in the covered countries, which facilitates patient access to these necessary medications.

Echoing similar sentiments, Angelini Pharma International Operations' executive vice-president, Erik Lommerde, expressed delight over the partnership renewal. He emphasized that the collaboration is founded on mutual trust and a shared commitment to professional excellence, detailed product knowledge, and high-quality service. According to Lommerde, this alliance is vital for both companies and stands as a testament to their strong business relationship.

In addition to the renewed agreement between Helsinn and Angelini, the latter company has been actively expanding its global footprint. In May 2023, Angelini Pharma entered into a global development and commercialization agreement with JCR Pharmaceuticals. This partnership is centered on the development of novel biologic therapies, leveraging JCR's J-Brain Cargo technology targeted at addressing epilepsy. Under this agreement, JCR Pharmaceuticals received reimbursements for research expenses, upfront payments, and milestone payments totaling $505.5 million. Moreover, JCR is set to receive tiered royalties on net product sales post-approval.

The renewed distribution and license agreement between Helsinn Group and Angelini Pharma underscores the strategic importance of collaboration in the pharmaceutical industry. By combining their expertise and resources, both companies are well-positioned to provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from acute pain and primary dysmenorrhea across multiple European countries. This partnership not only enhances the availability of established medications like AULIN and MESULID but also paves the way for future innovations in addressing complex medical conditions.