Riemser strengthens oncology range with Roche drug

German drugmaker Riemser Arzneimittel AG is extending its range of supportive cancer therapy products by purchasing the world-wide rights to Swiss drug major Roche's (ROG: SIX) Ostac (clodronic acid), a drug used in chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of metastatic bone lesions. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Ostac has been enhancing Riemser’s oncology portfolio since the beginning of the year. During a transitional period, Roche will continue to undertake sales and marketing activities for Riemser until the international registrations have finally been transferred. This phase should be completed by the end of the first quarter of this year at the latest. Ostac will complement the existing portfolio with key products, Aloxi (palonosetron) and Tepadina (thiotepa)., and further strengthen Riemser’s international presence in the oncology market.

"I am very pleased with the acquisition of Ostac from our business partner Roche. This is an important and well-established drug which will further strengthen our position as an international specialty pharmaceutical company," explained Michael Mehler, chief executive of Riemser Arzneimittel. "Ostac is an excellent addition to our portfolio, since it will not only round off our range of oncological products but will also accelerate our company's continued internationalization," he added.