Indivior announced its expansion into medicines for cannabis-related disorders through a strategic collaboration with Aelis Farma, in a move to diversify beyond opioid-addiction treatments.
The British drugmaker has partnered with Aelis Farma, a private biotechnology company based in Bordeaux, France, in a deal that includes an exclusive option and license agreement for the global rights to AEF0117, Aelis' lead asset. Indivior has agreed to pay $30 million upfront to Aelis.
AEF0117 is a first-in-class synthetic Signaling Specific inhibitor engineered to selectively inhibit the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor, found largely in the nervous system and also some other tissues. The receptor helps in communicating sensations such as pain, and regulating memory and eating behavior. Essentially, the drug is designed to inhibit the effects of cannabis' active ingredient THC, for the treatment of cannabis addiction, cannabis-induced psychosis and toxicity.
Indivior, known for its drugs designed to address the opioid crisis, including Sublocade and Suboxone, plead guilty last year to felony charges and paid $600 million in fines, after the DOJ investigated its Suboxone marketing practices.