Pacira BioSciences Enters Exclusive License Agreement with AmacaThera for its Novel Long-acting Analgesic for Postsurgical Pain Control

Core Insights - Pacira BioSciences has announced an exclusive worldwide license and collaboration agreement with AmacaThera for the development of AMT-143, a novel long-acting formulation of the non-opioid analgesic ropivacaine aimed at postsurgical pain control [1][2] Company Strategy - The addition of AMT-143 to the pipeline aligns with Pacira's 5x30 growth strategy, focusing on clinical stage, derisked opportunities that complement existing pain management offerings [2] - The company aims to enhance its leadership in opioid-sparing pain management through this new asset, which is expected to improve patient outcomes and expand treatment options [2] Financial Terms of the Agreement - Under the agreement, Pacira will fund the clinical development up to commercial launch, with AmacaThera receiving an upfront payment of $5 million, along with potential future milestone payments and a tiered royalty on net sales [3] Product Details - AMT-143 is designed for postsurgical pain control and demonstrated sustained release of ropivacaine for up to 14 days in a Phase 1 study [4] - The product utilizes AmacaThera's hydrogel-based drug delivery platform, which allows for slow release while minimizing systemic side effects [5] Current Product Portfolio - Pacira currently offers three commercial-stage non-opioid treatments: EXPAREL, ZILRETTA, and iovera, which target various pain management needs [6]