Pharmaceutical company OncoZenge AB (publ) (STO:ONCOZ) announced on Friday plans to partner with Pharmanovia for exclusive commercialization rights of BupiZenge in Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa (EMENA).

A non-binding offer has been signed, initiating a period of exclusivity for due diligence and joint planning, with a goal to finalize the agreement by 30 November 2024. The partnership includes potential milestone payments of up to EUR7m to support Phase 3 trials and commercialization. Additional commercial milestone payments and royalties on sales are part of the agreement. Pharmanovia will leverage its regulatory and market expertise to facilitate the clinical program and market entry.

OncoZenge is preparing to appoint a CDMO and begin technology transfer for Phase 3 lozenge production, targeted for early 2025. A CRO will be appointed after the Phase 3 study protocol is finalized. BupiZenge, an oral lozenge of bupivacaine, is aimed at treating oral mucositis, a severe pain condition affecting cancer patients. Phase 2 trials showed significant pain relief compared to the current standard of care.