Sucampo in deal with CPP for Phase III FAP drug candidate

US drugmaker Sucampo Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: SCMP) has announced an option and collaboration agreement under which Cancer Prevention Pharmaceuticals (CPP) has granted Sucampo the sole option to acquire an exclusive license to commercialize CPP-1X/sulindac combination product in North America. This product is currently in a Phase III clinical trial for the treatment of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

“We are very excited to enter into this agreement with Cancer Prevention Pharmaceuticals, as it aligns with our vision to acquire late-stage programs with the potential to have a significant impact on patient lives,” said Peter Greenleaf, chairman and chief executive of Sucampo, adding: “We believe that this product represents a substantial market opportunity and, given clinical results to date, could be a valuable asset for Sucampo that leverages our gastrointestinal expertise and strategic focus.”

There are currently no approved treatments for FAP and no other products in late-stage development, according to Sucampo. A genetic disease, FAP typically develops into colon cancer if left untreated.  Current treatment paradigms require patients to undergo the progressive removal of colon and rectum, ongoing endoscopies of the GI tract, and additional surgery throughout life. As a result, patients with FAP experience poor quality of life, inconvenience and significant cost. FAP has been designated an orphan indication in the USA and Europe, with a prevalence of about one in 10,000, and around 30,000 cases currently in the USA.