Bayer Schering Pharma AG, Germany, has signed a global exclusive cooperation agreement with the Canadian company EndoCeutics, Inc. for the development and commercialization of Vaginorm, an intra-vaginal application of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). A Phase III clinical program for Vaginorm in the treatment of symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy and female sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women has been initiated. Many women experience changes in vaginal tissue after menopause. These vaginal tissue changes are called vaginal atrophy and they may cause vaginal discomfort including vaginal dryness, itching and burning, and painful sex. Epidemiological research has shown that one quarter to one-half of postmenopausal women suffer from vaginal atrophy.(1)
"Vaginorm is an important late stage addition to our Gynecological Therapy R&D pipeline. We are pleased to work with EndoCeutics towards bringing a new treatment alternative for vaginal atrophy and female sexual dysfunction to an area of high unmet medical need," said Phil Smits, M.D., Head of Women's Healthcare at Bayer Schering Pharma. "Gynecological Therapies are a new growth area adding to our contraception business. Our research, in-licensing and innovation efforts are all geared towards this strategic goal."
EndoCeutics is responsible for conducting the Phase III studies for Vaginorm. Thereafter, Bayer will be responsible for the registration and commercialization of Vaginorm. Under the terms of agreement, EndoCeutics grants Bayer a worldwide, exclusive license to develop, manufacture and commercialize Vaginorm. Further details of the deal have not been disclosed. The transaction is subject to pre-merger notification under the HSR Act.
About EndoCeutics, Inc.
EndoCeutics, Inc. is a Quebec City-based biopharmaceutical company developing hormone therapies for the treatment of endocrine-related disorders affecting postmenopausal women and for the treatment and prevention of breast cancer.
About Bayer HealthCare
The Bayer Group is a global enterprise with core competencies in the fields of health care, nutrition and high-tech materials. Bayer HealthCare, a subsidiary of Bayer AG, is one of the world's leading, innovative companies in the healthcare and medical products industry and is based in Leverkusen, Germany. The company combines the global activities of the Animal Health, Bayer Schering Pharma, Consumer Care and Medical Care divisions. Bayer HealthCare's aim is to discover, manufacture and market products that will improve human and animal health worldwide. Find more information at http://www.bayerhealthcare.com.
About Bayer Schering Pharma
Bayer Schering Pharma is a worldwide leading specialty pharmaceutical company. Its research and business activities are focused on the following areas: Diagnostic Imaging, General Medicine, Specialty Medicine and Women's Healthcare. With innovative products, Bayer Schering Pharma aims for leading positions in specialized markets worldwide. Using new ideas, Bayer Schering Pharma aims to make a contribution to medical progress and strives to improve the quality of life. Find more information at http://www.bayerscheringpharma.de.
(1). J Sex Med 2009;6:2133-2142