Lupin inks pact to market US-based Salix Pharma's drugs in Canada

Lupin Limited has entered into a definitive distribution agreement with the US-based Salix Pharmaceuticals Inc under which Salix has granted the India pharma company the exclusive right to market, distribute and sell certain Salix products in Canada. This includes immediate rights to distribute Zaxine (rifaximin) 550 mg tablets for reduction in risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) recurrence in patients 18 years of age or older, and Relistor subcutaneous injection for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in patients with advanced illness who are receiving palliative care, when response to laxative therapy has not been sufficient.
 
Additionally, the agreement includes future dosage forms, strengths, and indications for such products. Under the agreement, Lupin also has the option to exclusively market, distribute and sell other gastroenterology products in Salix’s Canadian pipeline once approved by Health Canada.
 
Lupin will promote the Salix products through its own sales force in Canada. Lupin is in the process of establishing its Canadian presence and the addition of this significant product portfolio opens up growth opportunities for the future. Zaxine and Relistor are First-in-Class Treatments for their respective disorders and are important treatment options for physicians and their patients, not only in the US, but now in Canada.
 
Under the terms of the Agreement, Salix will receive an upfront payment and distribution fees, and is eligible for additional pre-commercial and sales milestone payments. Salix will supply the products to Lupin under separate supply agreements.