BASEL, Switzerland, Oct. 08, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Novartis (NYSE:NVS) has signed an agreement with Sankyo (TSE: 4501) of Japan to co-develop and subsequently commercialize a treatment for gastro-esophageal reflux disease and peptic ulcers. The agreement focuses on Sankyo's CS-526 acid pump antagonist, which is currently entering Phase I clinical trials. The novel oral compound was discovered by Sankyo and Ube Industries, Ltd. (TSE: 4208). If successful, the new reversible acid pump antagonist class of drug may offer therapeutic advantages over existing antacid therapies, and may have the potential to achieve faster acid reduction and more durable activity, resulting in quicker symptom relief and ulcer healing. The program includes four alternative potential drug candidates.
Please see full press release under the following link: