Aclaris Therapeutics, Inc., has licensed the Canadian rights to commercialize A-101 40% topical solution for the treatment of raised seborrheic keratoses (A-101 40%) to Cipher Pharmaceuticals. A-101 40% was FDA approved in December 2017 and is marketed by Aclaris in the U.S. under the tradename Eskata.   

Neal Walker, CEO of Aclaris commented, “This agreement marks an important milestone for Aclaris as our first entry into the international dermatology market. Cipher has a strong presence within the Canadian dermatology market and we are excited to be working with them to make A-101 40% available in Canada.”

“We were very attracted to the profile of A-101 40%, which has the potential to address a growing and unmet need for a non-invasive prescription treatment option targeting the estimated 20% of Canadians who have raised SKs,” said Robert Tessarolo, President and CEO of Cipher. “This transaction—which represents our fourth in 2018—brings a new and differentiated dermatology product into our Canadian portfolio and presents an attractive long-term growth opportunity. The addition of A-101 40% will further leverage our sales force and the strong relationships we have with Canadian dermatologists. Supported by a robust clinical data package, we are targeting a New Drug Submission to Health Canada later this year.”

Under the terms of the license agreement, Aclaris will receive an upfront payment of US $1.0 million and upon achievement of certain milestone events, may receive additional regulatory and commercial milestone payments, as well as royalties from product sales of A-101 40% in Canada. Cipher will be responsible for all regulatory and commercial activities and expenses for A-101 40% in Canada.