Alcon joins forces with pharma giant

Alcon is continuing to invest heavily in its future drug portfolio by forging links with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) for the global ophthalmic rights to cilomilast, a phosphodiesterase IV inhibitor, and by expanding an existing alliance with Origenis GmbH for the discovery and development of small molecules.

Alcon believes that GSK's cilomilast may have applications against numerous ophthalmic conditions, including dry eye. Alcon will provide GSK with an initial, upfront payment and future payments on the achievement of predefined milestones.

The company has also expanded its current research agreement with Origenis GmbH focused on the discovery and development of small molecule therapeutics for ophthalmic conditions. Alcon will provide Origenis with payments for milestone achievements and sales royalties; Alcon will retain the rights to any drug candidates with ophthalmic indications that are discovered during the collaboration.