Binningen
The CHEPLAPHARM Group acquires Tarceva® from Roche, thereby expanding its oncology portfolio. Tarceva®, with the active ingredient erlotinib, is used for the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer.
With this transaction, CHEPLAPHARM, a global leader in the acquisition of originator products from research-based pharmaceutical companies, purchases the global rights for Tarceva®. The active ingredient of Tarceva® erlotinib, is a well-established therapeutic component for the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Non-small cell lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancer types worldwide, showing a high therapeutic need for this tumour type. In 20 years of clinical and post-marketing experience, Tarceva®, has been shown to be effective in the treatment of NSCLC, including as former first-line treatment and switch maintenance of patients with NSCLC with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activating mutations as well as treatment of patients with NSCLC after failure of at least one prior chemotherapy regimen. Tarceva® is the first-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), which was first approved in 2004; within its class of TKIs, second- and third-generation TKIs are the standard of care in first line therapy. In addition, Tarceva® in combination with gemcitabine is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Tarceva® is available in the form of tablets for oral administration. The active ingredient is listed in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines.
"With Tarceva®, we are taking over a well-established drug from our long-standing partner Roche, with whom we have built up a solid platform for smooth integration of products into our portfolio. After Roaccutane®, this is the second brand that we have acquired from Roche this year. Following the successful closing of the Tarceva® acquisition, CHEPLAPHARM is now continuing to work in close collaboration with Roche to ensure a seamless transition in supply and continued availability for patients," says Edeltraud Lafer, CEO of CHEPLAPHARM.
As CHEPLAPHARM is already active in the therapeutic area of oncology, holding brands such as Paraplatin® and Taxol® for treatment of different forms of lung cancer, the acquisition of Tarceva® complements CHEPLAPHARM’s highly diversified portfolio.
The Tarceva® transaction includes trademarks, product registrations, certain contracts and inventories. The agreement does not include any transfer of manufacturing facilities or employees.