Epix, Bayer deal

Bayer returned to Epix worldwide rights to Vasovist gadofosveset effective March 1, 2009. Bayer said the injectable gadolinium magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent did not fit its portfolio. Vasovist is under review for use as a vascular imaging agent in the U.S., with a Dec. 31 PDUFA date. Epix will seek a new partner to commercialize and market Vasovist before it is launched. Bayer will continue to supply the compound where it is currently marketed until the transfer of rights is completed. Bayer acquired rights to Vasovist through its acquisition of Schering AG, which licensed the compound from Epix in 2000 (see BioCentury, July 7). ...