#None #Sobi #pozdeutinurad #Arthrosi

Sobi's Strategic Move: Acquiring Arthrosi Therapeutics

In a significant development for the pharmaceutical landscape, Sobi®, a prominent global biopharmaceutical company, has decided to acquire Arthrosi Therapeutics, Inc. This strategic move not only enhances Sobi's portfolio but also marks a pivotal step towards improving the treatment options available for gout patients.

An Enhanced Pipeline for Gout Treatment

The acquisition focuses on bolstering Sobi's gout franchise through the addition of pozdeutinurad (AR882), a groundbreaking oral URAT1 inhibitor currently under examination in two Phase 3 clinical trials. These trials are expected to be completed in 2026 and target progressive and tophaceous gout—conditions that have traditionally posed treatment challenges. This promising investigational drug aims to provide substantial relief for patients who have not responded adequately to first-line therapies, ultimately positioning itself as a potential best-in-class option in the market.

Guido Oelkers, President and CEO of Sobi, expressed the company's enthusiasm regarding this acquisition, highlighting its significance in transforming treatment paradigms for gout. Oelkers stated, "The acquisition of Arthrosi allows us to expand our gout pipeline with a highly differentiated new asset. Pozdeutinurad has the potential to become the therapy of choice for patients who have progressive gout with persistent and unresolved symptoms despite first-line therapy."

Financial Overview of the Acquisition

The agreement entails an upfront cash payment of USD 950 million, with an additional potential payout of up to USD 550 million contingent on achieving specific clinical, regulatory, and sales milestones. Sobi plans to finance this acquisition primarily through a combination of existing credit facilities and a new credit facility arranged with Handelsbanken and Danske Bank.

The completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is anticipated to close in the first half of 2026. This acquisition is expected to be significantly accretive to Sobi's growth strategy over the mid- to long term, enhancing both revenue and profit margins.

The Role of Pozdeutinurad in Gout Management

Gout, the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, is caused by elevated uric acid levels in the body, leading to painful joint inflammation. Although several treatment options exist, many patients experience inadequate management, leading to progressive symptoms and increasing comorbidity risks. Pozdeutinurad, in its two Phase 3 trials, has shown compelling efficacy in reducing serum uric acid levels and promoting the dissolution of tophi, thus offering a new hope for those struggling to manage their condition effectively.

Dr. Litain Yeh, Founder and CEO of Arthrosi Therapeutics, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to join forces with Sobi and look forward to working together to ensure a seamless transition as they advance pozdeutinurad towards pivotal data and potential regulatory filings." Sobi's expertise in commercialization is anticipated to expedite the process of bringing this potentially transformative therapy to gout patients globally.

Conclusion

Sobi's acquisition of Arthrosi Therapeutics underscores a crucial commitment to advancing treatment modalities for chronic and painful conditions like gout. As the landscape of pharmaceutical innovation continues to evolve, Sobi is positioning itself at the forefront, ready to meet the needs of patients who have long awaited better therapeutic solutions. With pozdeutinurad on the horizon, there is renewed hope for improved quality of life for those affected by gout, demonstrating the power of collaboration in driving forward medical advancements.