Celltech licenses Pharmacia's Dipentum

Celltech (LSE:CCH; CLL) received an exclusive U.S. license from PHA to market and distribute Dipentum osalazine capsules to treat ulcerative colitis. CCH also has an option to acquire all rights to the product in the U.S. and the rest of the world excluding Europe. CCH paid PHA $6 million for the rights. CCH could pay up to an additional $12 million if it exercises the option. PHA is eligible for royalties on U.S. sales. Furthermore, the companies signed a letter of agreement for CCH to acquire Dipentum rights for European markets.

Separately, CCH said it will reduce this quarter its U.S. sales force headcount to 170 from 350. The company said the sales force restructuring follows its decision to "significantly reduce" the level of detailing of its Metadate CD extended-release methylphenidate to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). CCH, which expanded its U.S. sales force last year to launch Metadate CD, said the headcount reduction should make Metadate CD a "positive financial contribution to the business." ...