Merck (NYSE:MRK) today announced that it has restructured its co-development and co-commercialization agreement with ARIAD Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for ridaforolimus, an investigational orally available mTOR inhibitor currently being evaluated for the treatment of multiple cancer types, to an exclusive license agreement.
“This amended agreement positions Merck and ARIAD to maximize the therapeutic potential of ridaforolimus by evaluating its properties in multiple cancer types and furthers Merck's commitment to oncology research and advancing the health of people suffering from cancer”
Under the restructured agreement, Merck has acquired full control of the development and worldwide commercialization of ridaforolimus. ARIAD will receive a $50 million upfront fee and is eligible to receive milestone payments associated with regulatory filings and approvals of ridaforolimus in multiple cancer indications and achievement of significant sales thresholds. In lieu of the profit split on U.S. sales provided for in the previous agreement, ARIAD will now receive royalties on global net sales of ridaforolimus, and all sales will be booked by Merck. Merck will assume responsibility for all activities and has acquired decision rights on matters relating to the development, manufacturing and commercialization of ridaforolimus. The Investigational New Drug (IND) application will be transferred to Merck, and Merck will file the marketing application worldwide for any oncology indications and lead all interactions with regulatory agencies.
"This amended agreement positions Merck and ARIAD to maximize the therapeutic potential of ridaforolimus by evaluating its properties in multiple cancer types and furthers Merck's commitment to oncology research and advancing the health of people suffering from cancer," said Muna Bhanji, senior vice president and general manager, Oncology franchise at Merck.
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