Ligand Announces Completion of Pelthos Therapeutics Merger with Channel Therapeutics

Core Insights - Pelthos Therapeutics Inc. is set to launch ZELSUVMI™ for treating Molluscum contagiosum infections in July 2025, following the completion of a merger with Channel Therapeutics Corporation [1][2] - Ligand Pharmaceuticals has invested $18 million in Pelthos and will receive a 13% royalty on worldwide sales of ZELSUVMI [1][2] - Pelthos will begin trading on the NYSE American exchange under the ticker symbol "PTHS" on July 2, 2025 [1] Company Developments - The merger between Ligand's subsidiary LNHC, Inc. and Channel Merger Sub Inc. has been completed, forming Pelthos Therapeutics Inc. [1][2] - Pelthos raised $50.1 million in equity capital, with $32 million from a group of strategic investors and $18 million from Ligand [2] - The capital raised will support the commercial launch of ZELSUVMI and includes the cancellation of approximately $18.8 million in bridge capital previously advanced to Pelthos [2] Product Information - ZELSUVMI (berdazimer) is a topical gel approved for treating Molluscum contagiosum, a common skin infection affecting an estimated 16.7 million people in the U.S. [3] - It is the first and only prescription medication for this condition that can be administered at home by patients or caregivers [3] - Pelthos is also evaluating the development of Channel's existing NaV 1.7 programs for various types of chronic pain and post-surgical nerve blocks [3]