Advinus Gets Compensation from Merck (India)
This article was originally published in PharmAsia News
Executive Summary
India-based Advinus Therapeutics received its first milestone payment from pharmaceutical giant Merck. The payment, for an undisclosed amount, was part of a partnership between the two companies initiated in November 2006. The initial agreement allowed Advinus to chose two of Merck's 10 research programs to develop drugs for metabolic problems including diabetes and obesity. The milestone payment was for research advances on two promising molecules that came three months ahead of schedule according to Advinus representatives. If these drugs continue to advance, Advinus will develop them until they reach Phase II clinical trials. At that point Merck will have the option of taking over for late-stage trials. (Click here for more