#Canada #Toronto #Pacira BioSciences #AmacaThera #AMT-143

AmacaThera and Pacira BioSciences Collaborate for Innovation in Pain Management

In a landmark deal, AmacaThera has signed an exclusive global licensing agreement with Pacira BioSciences, amounting to a potential total of up to $230 million. This collaboration is set to advance the development of AMT-143, an innovative long-acting, non-opioid anesthetic designed for post-operative pain management. The partnership is significant as it validates AmacaThera's state-of-the-art tunable hydrogel platform, positioning it at the forefront of drug delivery technology.

Upfront Investment and Potential Payments

AmacaThera will receive an upfront payment of $5 million, alongside additional milestone payments that could reach up to $225 million based on developmental and sales successes. Additionally, the agreement includes a tiered royalty structure on future sales, enhancing the financial incentives for both companies involved.

The partnership underscores the commitment of both firms to innovate in the rapidly evolving field of pain management. "This agreement is not just a financial transaction; it is a solid validation of our hydrogel technology and our mission to develop long-lasting therapies," stated Mike Cooke, CEO of AmacaThera.

The Breakthrough Hydrogel Technology

At the heart of this collaboration is AmacaThera's proprietary hydrogel drug delivery platform. This platform allows for precise, localized, and extended release of therapeutics, such as ropivacaine, for periods of up to 14 days. The hydrogel transitions from a liquid to a gel state at body temperature, providing optimal conditions for drug administration. This capability makes it an attractive option for a diverse range of therapeutics, from small molecules to biologics, highlighting its customizable nature to meet varied clinical needs.

The collaboration with Pacira is expected to enhance the clinical development process, with both organizations working closely together. Specifically, Pacira will oversee the funding of clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization efforts, with an anticipated Phase 2 trial commencement in 2026.

A Strategic Partnership

This strategic partnership not only facilitates the rapid development of AMT-143 but also demonstrates AmacaThera's hydrogel technology's clinical and commercial credibility. The non-dilutive funding stream provided by Pacira enables AmacaThera to continue pushing its early-stage innovations while maintaining ownership and long-term value.

"With AMT-143 added to our pipeline, we are elevating our leadership position in pioneering opioid-sparing pain management solutions," noted Dr. Jonathan Slonin, CMO of Pacira BioSciences. He expressed optimism based on the promising Phase 1 trial data, believing that AMT-143 addresses a pressing need in the market for safe and effective post-surgical pain control.

Future Implications and Conclusion

The implications of this partnership extend beyond immediate financial prospects; it establishes AmacaThera's unique position within the drug delivery landscape. The scalable nature of its hydrogel platform aligns with the growing demand for customized treatments that enhance patient experiences and outcomes while reducing systemic exposure to medications.

As both companies march towards the clinical development of AMT-143, the drug occupies a critical niche in a market seeking alternatives to traditional opioid therapies. The partnership is poised to accelerate innovation in pain management, ultimately improving quality of care for patients undergoing surgery.

AmacaThera remains a pioneer in developing next-generation hydrogel-based drug delivery solutions, ensuring its products effectively reach their intended targets while prioritizing patient safety and convenience. By leveraging its proprietary technology, AmacaThera is reshaping the future of therapeutic delivery across multiple healthcare settings.