Novartis acquires exclusive rights to Debio 025

Novartis announced this week that it is now the owner of rights to the antiviral agent Debio 025 (alisporivir).

The therapy, which is currently undergoing clinical testing, is being trialled for its ability to treat hepatitis C.

According to the organisation, Debio 025 is the first in a new class of drugs called cyclophilin inhibitors that could become part of the future standard of care for the condition.

The firm acquired the rights from the Debiopharm Group and under the terms of the contract, Novartis will make an upfront payment, as well as future milestone and royalty payments if Debio 025 is approved.

David Epstein, chief executive officer of the Novartis pharmaceuticals division, said: “We believe that Debio 025 could prove an important step forward by significantly enhancing the efficacy of existing therapy that forms the standard of care for hepatitis C.”

Last month, Novartis published its financial results for the whole of 2009, revealing that the company’s net sales during the period rose by 11 per cent in local currencies.