Orion and Criceto Announce Licensing Deal for APORON® Apomorphine Spray for Parkinson’s Disease OFF Episodes

Orion Corporation and Criceto IKM B.V. have announced a significant license agreement concerning APORON®, a groundbreaking apomorphine oromucosal spray designed to manage OFF episodes in Parkinson’s disease patients. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in advancing treatment options for those suffering from Parkinson's disease, focusing on improving patient quality of life during challenging episodes.

The agreement grants Orion exclusive global rights, except in the United States and Canada, to develop and commercialize this innovative spray. APORON® is currently undergoing Phase 3 trials, indicating that it is in the late stages of clinical development. This product is particularly aimed at providing a rescue therapy for OFF episodes, which are sudden periods where medication effects diminish, causing motor symptoms to resurface.

Under the terms of the deal, Criceto will benefit financially through upfront payments, development cost reimbursements, and a share in future sales through royalties. This financial structure emphasizes the mutual benefits and shared commitment between the two companies to bring this treatment to market.

Hao Pan, Executive Vice President of Branded Products at Orion, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Orion’s commitment to enhancing the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s disease. He emphasized that the collaboration aligns with Orion’s goals to offer treatment solutions across all stages of Parkinson’s, supporting patients throughout their journey.

Dr. Bert Tuk, CEO of Criceto, echoed these sentiments, noting the opportunity to leverage Criceto’s expertise in innovative rescue treatments. He expressed pride in continuing the development of their apomorphine spray, with the goal of establishing it as a first-line rescue treatment for OFF episodes. The collaboration with Orion is seen as a strategic move to ensure that this promising therapy reaches patients in need, expanding access and potentially improving management of Parkinson’s disease.

Criceto IKM B.V., based in the Netherlands, is dedicated to innovation in pharmaceutical solutions, focusing on advanced treatments for Parkinson’s disease. Their flagship product, APORON®, is at the forefront of their efforts to address the needs of patients experiencing OFF episodes, which can significantly hamper daily functioning and quality of life.

Orion Corporation, a Nordic pharmaceutical giant, has been a pillar of health innovation for over a century. With a wide range of human and veterinary pharmaceuticals, Orion’s commitment to therapeutic advancements spans oncology, pain management, and neurological conditions. Orion's extensive portfolio includes both proprietary and generic medicines, underscoring their role as a leader in healthcare solutions. With net sales reaching EUR 1,542 million in 2024, Orion continues to thrive as a major player in the pharmaceutical industry, employing approximately 3,700 professionals globally who are dedicated to fostering well-being.

This agreement between Orion and Criceto is poised to advance the development of APORON® and enhance the therapeutic landscape for Parkinson’s disease, offering hope for improved management of OFF episodes and better quality of life for patients worldwide.