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2 Nov 2017

Novartis announces planned acquisition of Advanced Accelerator Applications

Acquisition would add Lutathera, a first-in-class RadioLigand Therapy approved in Europe and under review in the US for neuroendocrine tumours.

Novartis has entered a memorandum of understanding with Advanced Accelerator Applications (AAA) under which Novartis intends to commence a tender offer for 100% of the share capital of AAA subject to certain conditions. AAA is a radiopharmaceutical company that develops, produces and commercializes molecular nuclear medicines including Lutathera (177Lu-DOTATATE), a first-in-class RLT product for neuroendocrine tumours (NETs).

Radiopharmaceuticals, such as Lutathera, are unique medicinal formulations containing radioisotopes which are used clinically for both diagnosis and therapy. The transaction would strengthen Novartis' oncology presence with both near-term product launches as well as a new technology platform with potential applications across a number of oncology early development programs.

"Novartis has a strong legacy in the development and commercialization of medicines for neuroendocrine tumors where significant unmet need remains for patients," said Bruno Strigini, CEO, Novartis Oncology. "With Lutathera we can build on this legacy by expanding the global reach of this novel, differentiated treatment approach and work to maximize Advanced Accelerator Applications broader RLT pipeline and an exciting technology platform."

Lutathera was approved in Europe in September 2017 for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic, progressive, well differentiated (G1 and G2), somatostatin receptor positive gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (GEP-NETs). Lutathera is under review in the U.S. with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) date of 26 January 2018.

In addition to Lutathera, AAA brings a broad set of skills in developing, manufacturing and commercializing radiopharmaceuticals, including the companion diagnostics for Lutathera (NETSPOT and SomaKit TOC). AAA had sales of EUR 109 million in 2016.

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