Gedeon Richter UK has assumed full marketing and distribution responsibilities for the neuropsychiatry medicine cariprazine following the transfer of rights from Recordati Pharmaceuticals.
The move gives the company control of UK promotion while it continues as the Marketing Authorisation holder.
Cariprazine, developed through Gedeon Richter’s research and licensed for treating schizophrenia in adults, has become an increasingly important part of the company’s central nervous system portfolio. The UK now joins a group of mainly Central and Eastern European countries where the drug is already marketed directly by Richter affiliates, with partner companies handling commercialisation elsewhere.
Remigijus Narauskas, Managing Director for Gedeon Richter UK and Ireland, said: “We are proud of Richter’s heritage in neuropsychiatry and the pivotal role we played in the development of cariprazine, which was first discovered by Richter scientists in the early 2000s.”
He added: “A strategic decision has been made to bring UK commercialisation of cariprazine to Gedeon Richter UK, and we would like to thank Recordati for its role in leading the marketing and distribution of the drug over the last nine years.”
As part of the transition, Joe Durante has joined Gedeon Richter UK as National Neuroscience Advisor, continuing the role he previously held at Recordati.
David Jordan, Medical Director for Gedeon Richter UK and Ireland, highlighted the importance of continuity for patients living with schizophrenia. He said: “Schizophrenia is a chronic and disabling disorder that imposes a significant burden on patients and their loved ones.”
He added: “We are committed to improving the quality of life for those suffering from this chronic mental health condition and we are pleased to continue providing cariprazine to eligible patients throughout the UK.”
Patients already prescribed cariprazine will continue to receive their treatment through Gedeon Richter’s distribution channels.
