Aquisition also gives Swiss company three clinical compounds.
Helsinn has bought Sapphire Therapeutics, giving this Swiss company entrance into the U.S. With this transaction, Helsinn has formed a U.S. subsidiary called Helsinn Therapeutics.
The company points out that this acquisition helps it achieve its goal to establish a U.S.-based R&D and commercial operation. “The acquisition of Sapphire Therapeutics will also allow us to expand our current pipeline of products in existing, focused therapeutic areas, in particular in cancer supportive care,” notes Riccardo Braglia, CEO of the Helsinn.
Sapphire Therapeutics develops products for the treatment of cancer as well as gastrointestinal and metabolic conditions. Its pipeline includes: anamorelin, a Phase II product for cancer cachexia; ipamorelin, another Phase II candidate for post operative ileus; ST-1141, a Phase I compound for opioid-induced bowel dysfunction; and other research-stage programs.
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