Avacopan was developed by ChemoCentryx for the treatment of orphan and rare renal conditions. | File photo
Gene Johnson | Mar 1, 2017

Vifor buys rights to sell renal treatment in most of Asia

Vifor Pharma will pay $20 million to ChemoCentryx for the rights to sell a renal disease drug in all markets outside the United States and China.

The drug, avacopan, was developed by ChemoCentryx for the treatment of orphan and rare renal conditions. In addition to the upfront payment, the company will also receive royalties on potential net sales.

Vifor describes avacopan as an "orally administered inhibitor of the complement 5a receptor (C5aR)." It is in Phase III development for the treatment of ANCA-associated vasculitis as well as other renal diseases.

“The expansion of avacopan territory rights with renal care leader Vifor Pharma, and with ChemoCentryx retaining all U.S. and China rights, expertly positions our rare renal disease portfolio for global commercialization,” ChemoCentryx CEO and President Thomas Schall said.

Vifor Pharma is part of the Galenica Group of companies.

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