Acorda Therapeutics finalizes deal to commercialize INBRIJA in Germany

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Esteve partnership
Esteve plans to distribute INBRIJA in 2022. | Canva

Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. has partnered with Esteve Pharmaceuticals GmbH to begin distributing INBRIJA 33 mg (levodopa inhalation powder, hard capsules), in Germany.

“We are delighted to announce this second commercialization agreement with Esteve, which will make INBRIJA available to the many people with Parkinson’s in Germany who would benefit from an 'as needed' treatment for their OFF periods," Ron Cohen, M.D., president and CEO of Acorda Therapeutics, said in a press release. "Esteve has an impressive track record of successfully commercializing pharmaceuticals in Europe for neurological and other indications. We continue to be in discussions with additional companies for the rights to distribute INBRIJA in other countries in Europe and the rest of the world.”

According to the agreement, Acorda will receive 5 million euros in the form of an upfront payment and will also receive sales-based milestone bonuses. The company will also receive a double-digit percentage of the selling price of Inbrija in Germany as part of the exchange. Esteve will receive exclusive distribution rights to Inbrija in Germany and Acorda will supply the product. 

According to the press release, "Acorda Therapeutics develops therapies to restore function and improve the lives of people with neurological disorders. INBRIJA® is approved for intermittent treatment of OFF episodes in adults with Parkinson’s disease treated with carbidopa/levodopa. INBRIJA is not to be used by patients who take or have taken a nonselective monoamine oxidase inhibitor such as phenelzine or tranylcypromine within the last two weeks. INBRIJA utilizes Acorda’s innovative ARCUS® pulmonary delivery system, a technology platform designed to deliver medication through inhalation."

According to the National Center for Biotechnology, approximately 400,000 people live with Parkinson's Disease in Germany, and there are 20 new cases per 10,000 people per year. Esteve expects to launch INBRIJA in Germany at some point in 2022.