Sumitomo Dainippon and BehaVR link up on multiple virtual reality digital therapeutics

Japanese drugmaker Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma (TYO: 4506) and Nashville, USA-based BehaVR have signed definitive agreements to develop and commercialize both prescription digital therapeutics and general wellness products for treatment of social anxiety disorder (SAD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and major depressive disorder (MDD) with the goal of bringing much needed tools to tackle the escalating global anxiety and depression crisis.

This collaboration combines BehaVR’s design and product development capabilities with Sumitomo Dainippon’s expertise in developing prescription therapeutics for patients with CNS-related disorders. It also leverages key strengths from each company’s go-to-market and commercial capabilities.

The companies believe the unique neurological power of the virtual reality (VR) medium will transform access to care and power next generation delivery of anxiety and depression treatment for patients. The companies will pursue Food and Drug Administration clearance for three products that aim to alleviate the burden in patients with these disorders.