Dechra agrees licensing deal for Scynexis dry eye treatment

Dechra has agreed a deal with Scynexis that will provide it with the rights to develop and commercialise SCY-641, a new treatment for canine dry eye.

Under the terms of the agreement, Dechra will receive worldwide animal health rights to SCY-641 and will be responsible for its remaining clinical development and commercialisation for the treatment of canine keratoconjunctivitis sicca.

In a clinical study, an aqueous solution of the compound demonstrated immunosuppressive activity that can alleviate ocular inflammation and promote tear production, as well as being well-tolerated.

Scynexis will receive an upfront fee, milestone-based payments and future royalties, while retaining the human health rights to the compound.

Ian Page, chief executive at Dechra, said: "The application of SCY-641 in the animal health market offers significantly improved clinical treatment of dry eye in animals and an excellent commercial opportunity."

The firm will be attending the British Equine Veterinary Association Congress later this month to showcase its latest product range, while also sponsoring a session on geriatric orthopaedics.