Meda has acquired exclusive European rights to a new formulation of imiquimod from Graceway Pharmaceuticals. The new formulation is 3,75 per cent imiquimod topical cream indicated for the treatment of actinic keratosis (AK). This product has recently been approved in the US and Canada.

Meda markets a higher strength (5 per cent) of imiquimod in Europe under the trademark Aldara. In 2009, sales of Aldara were approximately 500 MSEK.

Imiquimod's 3,75 per cent can be used on a significantly larger treatment area, it is once-daily and more tolerable due to the decreased concentration. The patent for this novel imiquimod formulation is pending.

“We have very good experience with Aldara in Europe and we look forward to provide AK patients with a new product with improved tolerability that builds on the efficacy of imiquimod,” says Anders Lönner, CEO at Meda.

Graceway is continuing its development program around 3,75 per cent imiquimod. Meda has exclusive rights to follow-up products based on the imiquimod substance.

In consideration for exclusive European rights for 3,75 per cent imiquimod, Meda will pay Graceway an undisclosed up-front and a single digit royalty on net sales. No milestones payments will be due for 3,75 per cent imiquimod.

Imiquimod is an immunomodulating agent that activates the body’s own immune defenses through the skin.

Meda is a leading international specialty pharma company. Meda’s products are sold in 120 countries worldwide and the company is represented by its own organizations in 50 countries.