Actelion extends partnership with Invida to market Tracleer in key Asian countries

The Singapore-based Invida Group, a provider of health care brands and services to the Asia Pacific region, says that its contract with Swiss biotechnology company Actelion has been extended through 2015 to continue commercialization of Tracleer (bosentan) for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in crucial markets throughout Asia.

Tracleer sales for the year leapt 19% (in local currencies) to 1.51 billion Swiss francs ($1.42 billion). Actelion signed with Invida initially in 2005, and has extended the contract to market the company's lead product in Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam and Hong Kong Commenting on the deal, analysts at Credit Suisse said their Pharmavalues net present value for Tracleer in ex-US markets is 29.0 Swiss francs per share for Actelion.

By extending the contract, Invida will continue to leverage its experience in regulatory and medical affairs, specialized marketing, and its well-established network of key opinion leaders throughout the region. This partnership will allow Invida to continue working with a market-leading biotech firm and leverage its capabilities to commercialize an orphan drug that has proven ability to positively impact disease progression, as well as reduce severity and symptoms in patients with PAH. Invida's suite of medical affairs capabilities and expansive knowledge of the Asia Pacific marketplace strategically positions the company to address challenges in the market, such as reimbursement and regulatory issues, and allow for the product to be promoted widely and successfully throughout the region, the Singapore company claims.