Bayer HealthCare acquires KaNDy Therapeutics and with it NT 814 to treat menopause

Bayer, a global leader in women’s healthcare, and KaNDy Therapeutics Ltd, a UK clinical-stage biotech company, announced that Bayer will acquire KaNDy Therapeutics Ltd. to expand its drug development pipeline in women’s healthcare. KaNDy Therapeutics Ltd. recently completed the Phase IIb with NT 814, a first in class, non-hormonal, once-daily, oral neurokinin-1,3 receptor antagonist, publishing positive data for the treatment of frequent symptoms of the menopause, hot flashes and night sweats (vasomotor symptoms). The start of Phase III clinical trial is expected for 2021. Once approved, the compound could generate peak sales potential of more than Euro 1 billion globally. Up to 75% of women going through menopausal transition experience menopausal vasomotor symptoms. These symptoms can impact both their work and private life and are debilitating for several years for those affected and result in significant incremental healthcare and economic costs. Under the terms of the agreement Bayer will pay an upfront consideration of $ 425 million, potential milestone payments of up to $ 450 million until launch followed by potential additional triple digit million sales milestone payments. Closing is subject to customary conditions, in particular anti-trust approval, and is expected by September 2020.