Allergan enhances neurotoxin pipeline through Anterios acquisition

Allergan plc purchased medical dermatology and aesthetic medicine company Anterios Inc. for $90 million late last week in an effort to boost its neurotoxin line of products.

The deal gives the global pharmaceutical company access to Anterios' NDS platform technology and its topical formulation of botulinum toxin type A known as ANT-1207. NDS allows for the local and targeted delivery of neurotoxins across the skin without needles or other invasive treatments. ANT-1207 is a lotion that is being investigated as a potential treatment for excessive sweating, facial wrinkles and acne.

"The acquisition of Anterios bolsters Allergan's commitment to innovation and maintaining its leadership position in neurotoxin development and commercialization," David Nicholson, EVP and president of global brands research and development at Allergan, said. "This acquisition demonstrates our ability to apply our tremendous scientific leadership in neurotoxins to further extend our already deep neurotoxin pipeline by advancing a new delivery system and formulations that are appealing to both patients and physicians."

Allergan's current neurotoxin products include Botox for both medical aesthetics and therapeutic purposes. While the cosmetic version is intended for the treatment of forehead lines, platysma bands and masseter hypertrophy, the therapeutic version is for those suffering from conditions such as depression and osteoarthritis.

"Allergan has a long history in dermatology and aesthetics, a deep commercial and development network across these professional communities, and a strong commitment to innovation," Anterios Founder and CEO Dr. Jon Edelson said. "They were the natural fit for us as we sought a partner to take our NDS platform technology and ANT-1207 program to the next stage of development and eventual commercialization."

In addition to the upfront payment of $90 million, Anterios has the opportunity to receive payments for reaching certain milestones.