Ligand, Azure Biotech sign global license agreement for development of lasofoxifene

Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ: LGND) announces the signing of a global license agreement with Azure Biotech for the development of a novel formulation of lasofoxifene targeting an underserved market in women's health. Under the terms of the agreement, Ligand is entitled to receive $2.7 million in potential development and regulatory milestones and a 5% royalty on future net sales. Also under this agreement, Ligand retains rights to the oral formulation originally developed by Pfizer.

“The team at Azure is highly motivated and well-positioned to advance lasofoxifene, and we look forward to working with them on this important program. This transaction represents yet another milestone for Ligand as we continue to build our portfolio of partnered programs and reinforces the strength of our business model.”

"Lasofoxifene has a promising profile, and we are excited to see it move forward in development," commented John Higgins, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ligand. "The team at Azure is highly motivated and well-positioned to advance lasofoxifene, and we look forward to working with them on this important program. This transaction represents yet another milestone for Ligand as we continue to build our portfolio of partnered programs and reinforces the strength of our business model."

"The Azure team is excited to undertake the development of lasofoxifene in a new area of high medical need. Azure plans to rapidly build upon the extensive safety and efficacy data already available from trials completed in more than 15,000 women," stated Dr. David Thompson, President of Azure.