Ligand, Merck deal

Ligand disclosed in its 2Q13 earnings that it granted Merck a worldwide license to Captisol modified beta-cyclodextrin reformulation technology to Merck for use with the pharma's IV formulation of antifungal Noxafil posaconazole, which is in a Phase III trial to treat invasive aspergillosis. Ligand declined to disclose details, and Merck could not be reached. In June 2011, Ligand disclosed that it would supply clinical and commercial supplies of Captisol materials to Merck but did not disclose the program (see BioCentury, June 27, 2011).

Merck markets an oral suspension of Noxafil, an inhibitor of P450 sterol C-14 alpha demethylase, in the U.S. and EU for prophylaxis of invasive Aspergillus and Candida infections in severely immunocompromised patients ages 13 years and older. A once-daily tablet formulation is under review in the U.S. with an undisclosed PDUFA date. Merck submitted an MAA to EMA for the formulation (see BioCentury, April 22). ...