Botox-maker acquires developmental topical delivery platform.

Allergan plc has acquired Anterios, Inc., a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing a next generation delivery system and botulinum toxin-based prescription products. Under the terms of the agreement, Allergan acquired Anterios for an upfront payment of $90 million and potential development and commercialization milestone payments related to NDS™, Anterios' proprietary platform delivery technology that enables local, targeted delivery of neurotoxins through the skin without the need for injections.

In addition to NDS™, Allergan has acquired global rights to ANT-1207, an investigational topical formulation botulinum toxin type A in development for the potential treatment of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), acne, and crow's feet lines.

"The acquisition of Anterios bolsters Allergan's commitment to innovation and maintaining its leadership position in neurotoxin development and commercialization," said David Nicholson, Executive Vice President and President, Global Brands Research & Development at Allergan. "Our team at Allergan pioneered the development and commercialization of BOTOX®, the market-leading neurotoxin used in both medical aesthetics and therapeutic areas of medicine. This acquisition demonstrates our ability to apply our tremendous scientific leadership in neurotoxins to further extend our already deep neurotoxin pipeline by advancing a new delivery system and formulations that are appealing to both patients and physicians."

Prior to the closing, Anterios spun out certain assets to a new company, Eirion Therapeutics, Inc., funded by Anterios shareholders. The new entity also retains certain non-exclusive rights to ANT-1207.