Senetek PLC announced the signing of an expanded manufacturing license with ICN Pharmaceuticals Inc for products containing Senetek's patented skin care ingredient, Kinetin.

Under the expanded agreement, ICN will add five new Kinetin products to its existing Kinerase product line, including new intense serum and cream formulations with highly stabilized Vitamin C, a Kinerase sun screen formulation, and new higher concentration cream and lotion formulations. The expanded line will be sold through the ethical market channel worldwide, supported by an enhanced sales effort by physicians, dermatology clinics and other recognized medical channels supported by direct-to-consumer promotional activity including print, telemarketing and Web-based media. As part of the agreement, ICN is making a $3 million prepayment of royalties at signing. Senetek's original license agreement with ICN was signed in October 1998.

Wade Nichols, Senetek Executive Vice President, Corporate Development, commented: "ICN's expanded commitment to Kinetin in the ethical channel shows the tremendous vitality of this technology alone and in combination with other proprietary active ingredients. ICN took the lead in 1999 in promoting Kinetin to a very discerning audience, dermatologists, and this new agreement adds exciting new dimensions to its franchise worldwide."