AstraZeneca Sells Migraine Treatment to Grünenthal

June 8, 2017

The Grünenthal Group has entered into an agreement with AstraZeneca for the global rights to Zomig (Zolmitriptan) excluding Japan. Zomig is indicated for the acute treatment of migraines and cluster headaches. The transaction is expected to be completed before the end of the second quarter of 2017.

"Migraine is a very debilitating disease with more than 75 million people worldwide suffering from attacks that can lead to sensitivity to light or sound, to nausea or even vomiting", explains Gabriel Baertschi, CEO of Grünenthal. "The acquisition of the well-established Zomig products complements our existing pain portfolio."

Grünenthal will pay AstraZeneca $200 million upon completion. AstraZeneca will also receive up to an additional $102 million in future milestone payments. Grünenthal will acquire the rights to Zomig in all markets outside Japan, including the United States, where the rights are licensed to Impax Pharmaceuticals (Impax) who will continue to market Zomig in the U.S. AstraZeneca will continue to manufacture and supply the medicine to Grünenthal during a transition period.