Hikma and Vectura sign agreement to develop generic salmeterol

The asthma and COPD treatment will be delivered using Vectura’s proprietary dry powder inhalation technology and device.

Under the terms of this agreement, Hikma will be responsible for the clinical development, manufacture and commercialisation of the product. Vectura will complete the formulation development of generic salmeterol, which will largely be funded by Hikma. Vectura will receive an initial payment of $375,000 and potential further development, filing, approval and launch milestones up to an aggregate amount of $1.125 million. Vectura is also eligible for a share of future returns of the product, subject to certain recoveries by Hikma for the costs of the clinical endpoint pivotal trial.

Mike Raya, CEO of West-Ward Pharmaceuticals said: “We are very pleased to be extending our partnership with Vectura. This builds on the strong relationship we have established through our programme for the development of generic Advair Diskus. By leveraging Hikma’s strong R&D, high-quality manufacturing and excellent commercial capabilities, we are successfully executing our pipeline development strategy for our US generics business and improving patient access to high quality, affordable medicines.”