Horizon Pharma, Mallinckrodt to co-promote Duexis in U.S.

Deerfield-based Horizon Pharma Inc. and Mallinckrodt LLC said they have entered into a U.S. co-promotion agreement for Horizon's rheumatoid arthritis drug Duexis.

“This collaboration with Mallinckrodt will expand our reach and frequency against key primary care physicians who treat patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis,” said Timothy P. Walbert, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Horizon Pharma. “The Horizon sales force has performed well in the initial phase of the Duexislaunch. As part of our continued commercial strategy, we believe the substantial promotional efforts of Mallinckrodt, along with increasing our own sales force with an additional 80 sales representatives will enable us to achieve critical mass in driving Duexisrevenue.”

Horizon will grant Mallinckrodt the right to co-promote Duexis in the United States through December 31, 2014, with the potential to renew for additional periods. Horizon and Mallinckrodt have agreed that Mallinckrodt will promote to targeted physicians and is entitled to receive performance-based compensation.  The Mallinckrodt sales force is expected to begin promoting Duexisto physicians in August.

Horizon will continue to record all revenues for Duexis and will remain responsible for Duexis manufacturing, supply and regulatory activities.

“Duexis is a perfect complement to our existing portfolio of pain products,” said Mark Trudeau, president, pharmaceuticals, Covidien. “We look forward to using our experience and relationships to expand adoption of Duexisby primary care physicians.”