Esprit pays milestone to Indevus, acquires marketing rights for Sanctura XR

EAST BRUNSWICK, N.J. Esprit Pharma announced this week that it has exercised its option to acquire the marketing rights of the recently approved Sancutra XR (trospium chloride extended release capsules).

Esprit paid its development and co-promotion partner, Indevus Pharmaceuticals, the milestone owed it Tuesday, following approval by the Food and Drug Administration. With the payment, Esprit secured rights to market Sancutra XR in the United States and its territories. Indevus announced on Monday, Aug. 6, that Sancutra XR had been approved by the FDA.

Sancutra XR is indicated for the once-daily treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and urinary frequency.

Sancutra XR, the once-daily formulation of Sanctura, is a unique quaternary ammonium compound in a class of anticholinergic compounds known as muscarinic receptor antagonists. OAB is estimated to affect approximately 33 million Americans and represents a significant clinical problem with potential medical, hygienic, and social consequences. When untreated, this condition can lead to disability, dependence, and isolation from the community. It is most prevalent among the elderly and strikes women twice as frequently as men.

"The approval of Sancutra XR sets a new benchmark in the treatment of overactive bladder, further strengthens our flagship brand, and reinforces our commitment to patients who suffer from overactive bladder and the clinicians who treat them.," stated John Spitznagel, chairman and chief executive officer of Esprit Pharma. "We are extremely excited about bringing this best in class compound to market in the near future."

Esprit is responsible for the marketing and sales of Sancutra XR and Indevus is a sales co-promotion partner for the product through 2008.