Lupin expands US women’s health portfolio with $150m acquisition of Symbiomix Therapeutics

Lupin Limited, a Mumbai-based generics pharmaceutical company, has strategically broadened its foothold in the women’s health sector by acquiring Symbiomix Therapeutics. The acquisition, valued at $150 million, was executed through Lupin’s US subsidiary, enhancing its presence in the specialized field of women’s health.

Strategic Acquisition to Bolster Women’s Health Offerings

Symbiomix Therapeutics, founded in 2012 and based in Newark, New Jersey, has been at the forefront of developing therapies for gynecological infections, which pose significant health risks. The startup was supported by prominent healthcare venture capital firms including OrbiMed, F-Prime Capital Partners, and HBM Partner. This acquisition marks a significant step for Lupin as it aims to expand its women’s health specialty business, particularly into the gynecological infection sector.

Introduction of Solosec to Lupin’s Portfolio

The highlight of this acquisition is the addition of Solosec (secnidazole) oral granules to Lupin’s product lineup. Solosec, a 5-nitroimidazole antimicrobial agent, is the first and only FDA-approved single-dose oral treatment for bacterial vaginosis in adult women. The FDA approval of Solosec was based on the results of various studies, including two pivotal trials for bacterial vaginosis and an open-label safety trial, which demonstrated the drug’s efficacy.

Bacterial vaginosis affects approximately 21 million women in the United States annually, making it one of the most common gynecologic infections in the country. The integration of Solosec into Lupin’s portfolio not only enhances its offerings but also addresses a significant and widespread health issue.

Lupin’s Commitment to Women’s Health

Lupin’s CEO, Vinita Gupta, commented on the acquisition, stating, “We are delighted to complete the acquisition of Symbiomix and its Solosec brand, which immediately expands Lupin’s US women’s health specialty business into the highly-complementary gynecological infection sector. This transaction is an important milestone in the evolution of our Specialty business and gives Lupin a new therapeutic to bring to obstetricians and gynecologists to treat a serious health condition they see frequently in their practices.”

Solosec is expected to be launched commercially in the United States by mid-2018, further solidifying Lupin’s commitment to advancing women’s health.

This acquisition by Lupin represents a deliberate strategy to deepen its impact in the specialty sector of women’s health. By acquiring Symbiomix Therapeutics and integrating Solosec into its product range, Lupin is poised to meet the growing healthcare needs of women, particularly in treating conditions like bacterial vaginosis. This move not only expands Lupin’s portfolio but also strengthens its market position as a leader in women’s health.