ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CONTENTS
1 Our profile 40 Medical device – episil® 62 Consolidated statement 2 2018 Milestones 42 Sustainable development of cash flow 4 CEO Statement 44 The share 62 Parent Company statement 11 Strategy 46 Glossary of cash flow 13 Products and pipeline 48 Directors’ report 63 Notes Camurus is a Swedish research-based pharmaceutical company 14 Buvidal® 54 Risks 88 Assurance of the Board of ® Directors and President committed to developing and commercialising innovative and 22 FluidCrystal technology platforms 58 Consolidated statement of Auditor’s report differentiated medicines for the treatment of severe and chronic 26 CAM2038 Pain comprehensive income 89 Corporate governance report conditions. New drug products with best-in-class potential are 28 CAM2029 Acromegaly and NET 58 Income statement – Parent Company 92 The Auditors’ Examination of the conceived based on the proprietary FluidCrystal® drug delivery 31 CAM2043 PAH 59 Consolidated balance sheet 99 Corporate Governance Report technologies and an extensive R&D expertise. Camurus’ clinical 34 Projects and Partners 60 Balance sheet – Parent Company 100 Board of directors pipeline includes products for treatment of cancer, endocrine dise- 36 Development model 61 Consolidated statement of & Early R&D projects changes in equity 102 Group management ases, pain and addiction, developed in-house and in collaboration Key figures and definitions with international pharmaceutical companies. The company’s 38 Employees 61 Parent Company statement 104 of changes in equity 105 Annual General Meeting shares are listed on Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker “CAMX”.
“First long-acting opioid dependence treatment 2 launched in the EU„ 4 CAM2029 has the New product candidate potential to improve for treatment of patients convenience and with pulmonary arterial treatment outcomes hypertension (PAH) for patients with acromegaly and NET 34 28 31
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 OUR PROFILE OUR PROFILE
“Buvidal® approved for treatment of opioid dependence„
Approved medicines Own commercial organization • Buvidal® approved for treatment of opioid dependence • Fully operational for 2019 Buvidal ® launches in the EU and Australia in November 2018 in Europe and Australia Broad, late-stage R&D pipeline Multiple partnerships • +10 clinical programs in addiction, pain, oncology, • Braeburn, Rhythm, Solasia… endocrinology, obesity and cardiovascular diseases Experienced management Unique FluidCrystal® nano-technology and dedicated teams • Developed in-house with strong IP • Broad experience and expertise across all • Next generation long-acting depot technology disciplines of drug development • Proven in +20 clinical studies and approved products
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 1 2018 MILESTONES
Q1 Q2
– FDA issued complete response letter – NDA for CAM2038 resubmitted to FDA regarding CAM2038 NDA – Positive Phase 1 results announced for CAM2043 – Clinical milestone achieved in collaboration for treatment of PAH with Rhythm Pharmaceuticals in the – Camurus entered into license agreement with development of a weekly setmelanotide Medison for commercialization of CAM2038 in Israel depot for the treatment of genetic obesity disorders – Directed share issue successfully completed with proceeds of SEK 102 million – episil® oral liquid launched in Japan by Meiji Seika Pharma
2 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 2018 MILESTONES
Q3 Q4
® – Camurus regained exclusive worldwide rights to – Buvidal approved by the European Commission CAM2029 and related product candidates from as the first long-acting treatment for opioid Significant events after the period Novartis dependence in the EU – Buvidal® launched in the Nordics, ® ® – Positive topline Phase 3 results for CAM2038 in opioid – Buvidal Weekly and Buvidal Monthly approved in UK and Germany experienced patients with chronic low-back pain Australia as the first long-acting treatment of opioid dependence – Completion of a rights issue of SEK 403 million – CHMP adopted positive opinion recommending ™ – Braeburn initiated court proceedings to European approval of Buvidal® (CAM2038) for – US FDA issues a tentative approval of Brixadi overturn the 3-year market exclusivity treatment of opioid dependence for treatment of opioid use disorder and seek immediate market approval of – Successful transfer of CAM2029 from – Camurus Capital Markets and R&D Day held at Brixadi™ in the US Novartis to Camurus IVA conference center in Stockholm
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 3 CEO STATEMENT
Breakthrough year for Camurus with approvals of Buvidal® in the EU and Australia
2018 was a breakthrough year for Camurus. Buvidal®, our weekly and monthly buprenorphine depots, was approved in November for the treatment of opioid dependence – a severe and often chronic condition for which the need for new and improved treatments is enormous. With distribution, marketing and sales in place, the European launch is now accelerating with the first few hundred patients having initiated treatment. The response from physicians and patients has been very positive, which is encouraging as we continue the roll-out of Buvidal® on the European, Australian, and other global markets. During the year, we also delivered strong results in our product pipeline, including positive Phase 3 results with CAM2038 for the treatment of chronic pain and phase 1 data for CAM2043 for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
4 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CEO STATEMENT
The approvals of Buvidal® by the European Commission and DEDICATED COMMERCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE IN BUVIDAL® Australian Therapeutics Goods Administration was gratifying PLACE IN THE EU AND AUSTRALIA to us all at Camurus. After years of tireless development, we During 2018, Camurus took the strategically important step – the first long-acting injection treatment of opioid dependence in the EU and Australia reached the finishing line with our first in-house developed to grow from an R&D focused company to a science-led, medicine, which has the potential to transform opioid depen- international pharmaceutical company with its own marketing dence treatment for hundreds of thousands of patients who and sales organization in the EU and Australia. By the end have become dependent on illicit opioids or prescription of the year we had grown from 71 to 94 employees, and are painkillers. Our goal is now to give patients access as quickly now already more than 100 employees, with an additional as possible to this new effective treatment that can meaning- 20 consultants and contractor employees working from fully improve their treatment outcomes and quality of life. our Lund headquarters and regional offices in Cambridge, Mannheim, Paris and Sydney. About half of our people are directly involved with the launch of Buvidal® - working with everything from distribution, marketing and sales to medical Approvals of Buvidal® by information, education and safety monitoring. We are extre- “ mely pleased to have fantastic sales and marketing teams the European Commission on board and we are convinced that we will succeed in our • Buvidal® is indicated (EU) for treatment of efforts to establish a strong position for Buvidal ® on the global and Australian Therapeutics opioid dependence within a framework of medical, opioid dependence treatment market. social and psychological treatment in adults and During the year we established commercial manufac- Goods Administration„ adolescents from 16 years turing of Buvidal® and an effective distribution network in Europe and Australia, which has enabled on-site delivery • Individualized dosing for use across treatment of Buvidal® to most clinics in the Nordics, UK and Germany phases: initiation, switching from daily medications and long-term maintenance treatment GAME-CHANGING LONG-ACTING within 24 hours of an order being placed. TREATMENT OF OPIOID DEPENDENCE • Superiority claim versus daily standard treatment With its flexible weekly and monthly dosing options in multiple with daily buprenorphine/naloxone included dose strengths, the treatment regimen with Buvidal® can be in clinical outcomes adjusted to the needs of individual patients, with improved Establish a strong position • Removes burden and stigma of daily medication treatment results versus standard daily treatment, as demon- “ • Administration by healthcare personnel 1 ® strated in the pivotal Phase 3 study. The need for daily, often for Buvidal on the global safeguards against diversion, misuse supervised, medication – which can be burdensome and and pediatric exposure socially stigmatizing for patients – is avoided with weekly and opioid dependence monthly Buvidal®. Furthermore, since Buvidal® is designed for healthcare professional administration only, the risk of treatment market„ misuse and diversion and unintended exposure to children and teenagers is also largely avoided.
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 5 CEO STATEMENT
OPIOID DEPENDENCE During the year we continued building on the strong evidence base established for Buvidal®, and started two important is a chronic and relapsing medical condition new clinical studies: diagnosed by signs and symptoms of compulsive • An open-label, clinical study of Buvidal® versus standard opioid use causing significant mental, physical, daily treatment with sublingual buprenorphine focusing on and social problems, including transmission of patient satisfaction, quality of life and health economic out- infectious diseases, unintentional overdose, comes. The study was started in Australia in October 2018 criminal activity, and incarceration. and topline results are expected in the fourth quarter of 2019. • A clinical study of Buvidal® and methadone treatments in the custodial setting, performed in seven correctional ESCALATING facilities in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. The study OPIOID CRISIS is sponsored by the NSW government and will include 120 opioid dependent patients, of which the Buvidal® Drug overdose deaths in the US5 70 patients will be followed for up to 1 year. Interim results Thousands 65 are expected in the fourth quarter of 2019.
60 With manufacturing and distribution secured, the European 55 launch of Buvidal® began already in January 2019. A few 50 From other drugs hundred patients have initiated treatment in Finland, Opioid overdose 45 Sweden, Germany and the UK, and the feedback from “Feedback from patients 40 patients and physicians has been very positive – which and physicians has been 35 is in line with the experiences from the clinical program. 30 Much of our attention is now focused on enabling patient very positive„ ® 25 access by having Buvidal included in treatment plans,
20 guidelines and formularies, and by working to secure reim- bursement and the availability of appropriate resources for 15 opioid dependence treatment at regional and national levels. Based on our own and independent external market research, 10 This work is greatly facilitated by the advantageous the long-acting injectable market for opioid dependence in 5 properties of Buvidal® and the results from its comprehensive the EU and Australia is 200–300 million Euro per year.2-4 0 clinical program, including the randomized, double-blind, With the strong product profile of Buvidal®, including the double-dummy, active controlled phase 3 study against broad indication and demonstrated improved treatment 2011 2017 2014 2012 2015 2013 2016 2010 2007 2001 2002 2005 2003 2004 2008 2009 2006 2000 1999 standard daily treatment with sublingual buprenorphine/ outcomes – combined with the advantage of being first to naloxone, which was published in JAMA Internal Medicine market – we believe that Buvidal® could take a very significant #1 cause of deaths for people in 2018.1 share of this market. under 50 years in the US
6 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CEO STATEMENT
Since the FDA decision, Braeburn has been working inten- CHRONIC PAIN sively to give US patients access as soon as possible to this “Positive Phase 3 new treatment which fulfills critical unmet medicalneeds. is often defined as pain lasting results for CAM2038 Braeburn recently initiated court proceedings to overturn longer than three months or beyond the the 3-year exclusivity and obtain immediate market approval normal time for tissue healing. in chronic pain„ of Brixadi™ in the US. Common types of chronic pain include lower back pain, arthritis, headache, and face and jaw pain. POSITIVE PHASE 3 RESULTS FOR CAM2038 IN CHRONIC PAIN TENTATIVE APPROVAL IN THE US In September 2018, we reported positive results from a Our US partner Braeburn experienced unexpected setbacks pivotal phase 3 study of CAM2038 in patients with chronic during 2018. First, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) low back pain. The results show that CAM2038 provides issued a complete response letter requesting additional infor- clinically significant long-acting pain relief in patients who, mation for approval of Brixadi™ (US tradename for Buvidal ®). prior to the study, were on daily medication with opioid After diligently answering all questions and receiving a formal painkillers. 1 IN 5 INDIVIDUALS SUFFER 6 acceptance and new PDUFA date, Braeburn was issued a The clinical development of CAM2038 in this indication FROM CHRONIC PAIN tentative approval of Brixadi™ in December 2018. This meant continued during the year with a long-term safety study in that all regulatory requirements were fulfilled, but a final a wider patient population. Topline results are expected in marketing approval of the monthly product was considered the second quarter of 2019. These will be followed by health CAM2038 addressing unmet medical needs: blocked by a market exclusivity granted by the FDA which authority discussions, before submitting applications for • Improved treatment adherence and potential extends to November 2020. marketing authorization in early 2020. for improved treatment outcomes The decision took us by surprise and was disappointing, The incidence of chronic pain in Europe and the US is not only for Braeburn and Camurus, but also for physicians about 20%. Depression, anxiety and opioid abuse are often • Reducing the risk of misuse, abuse and diversion and patients, who had been anticipating the launch of Brixadi™. linked to chronic pain, which makes it a major health issue • Reducing risk of overdose In view of the ongoing opioid epidemic in the US, the urgent with large negative consequences for both individuals and need for new treatments, and the FDA’s recent official state- society. Treatment of patients with chronic pain and conco- ments and guidelines relating to the importance of depot mitant opioid misuse problems is particularly challenging. medications for opioid dependence, the FDA decision to CAM2038 is designed for round-the-clock pain relief and issue a tentative approval was confounding. The effect on an improved safety profile, as it minimizes the risks of deve- Camurus was immediate, as the decision resulted in a delay loping opioid tolerance, addiction, misuse and overdose. of an expected 35 million USD milestone payment. In view of this, our Board of Directors initiated a rights issue to raise SIGNIFICANT OPPORTUNITIES WITH gross proceeds of 403 million SEK to finance key activities SUBCUTANEOUS OCTREOTIDE DEPOT according to our business plan and long-term strategy. In July 2018, we regained the exclusive worldwide develop- The rights issue has now been successfully completed. ment and commercialization rights from Novartis to our octreotide depot, CAM2029, for the treatment of acromegaly
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 7 CEO STATEMENT
ACROMEGALY is a rare and chronic hormonal disorder that “First long-acting occurs when the pituitary gland produces excess growth hormone octreotide product for subcutaneous dosing„ PREVALENCE OF ACROMEGALY
and neuroendocrine tumors. CAM2029 may be the first PER long-acting octreotide product for subcutaneous dosing 8 and is designed for easy self-administration by patients. 10,11 100,000 Clinical studies also show that CAM2029 provides more than 500% higher bioavailability of octreotide than the Based on the pharmacokinetics and safety profile documen- market leading product Sandostatin® LAR®.7 Recent- ted in the Phase 1 study, we have, together with opinion ly published results from a phase 2 study indicate that leaders and clinical experts, begun preparations for the con- CAM2029 can improve control of disease biomarkers in tinued clinical development of CAM2043. The goal is to start patients with acromegaly as well as decrease symptoms a phase 2 study in PAH patients in 2019 before beginning a NET - NEUROENDOCRINE in patients with NET.8 pivotal phase 3 program. TUMOURS During the second half of 2018, we finalized the phase 3 program design and completed GMP manufacturing prepa- Are a heterogenous group of rare tumours rations for upcoming phase 3 trials. A pivotal phase 3 study originating from regulatory hormone- in acromegaly patients is planned to start mid-2019. We were producing neuroendocrine cells Promising phase 1 results also granted new patents for CAM2029 in the US and Australia, “ that strengthen our patent protection until 2032 or beyond. for weekly treprostinil GLOBAL SSA MARKET With its patient-friendly dosing and the potential for improved treatment results, we believe that CAM2029 could depot in development for take a significant share of the long-acting somatostatin treatment of PAH„ analogue (SSA) market, which had sales of more than USD 2.5 2.5 billion USD in 2018.9 9 BILLION PROMISING CLINICAL RESULTS FOR PROGRESS IN PARTNERSHIPS OUR TREPROSTINIL DEPOT Partnership is an integral part of our business and has the In the second quarter of 2018, we announced promising potential for significant value generation from milestone phase 1 results for weekly treprostinil depot in development payments and revenue from sales over the coming years. for treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). For example, we are developing a weekly setmelanotide
8 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CEO STATEMENT
Outlook 2019
DELIVERING ON STRATEGY Achievements 2018 • Successful launch of Buvidal® in the EU and Australia
Commercialization • Commercial infrastructure in place in the EU and Australia
• Preparations for market applications for CAM2038 in chronic pain • Start of phase 3 program for CAM2029 • EU and Australian approvals of Buvidal ® Advancing product pipeline and for opioid dependence • Initiation of phase 2 study of CAM2043 in PAH launches of new products • Tentative US approval of Brixadi™ • Positive phase 3 study in chronic pain
• New license partnerships Value creating partnerships • Phase 1b clinical milestone and phase 2 start for own product candidates with weekly setmelanotide by Rhythm • Partnership with Medison for Buvidal® in Israel
Leading drug delivery • FluidCrystal® injection depot • New technology licenses technology validated by product approvals and research partnerships
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 9 CEO STATEMENT
OPERATING EXPENSES CAMURUS WELL POSITIONED FOR GROWTH AND VALUE GENERATION MSEK “Validation of our Apart from unforeseen events in our partnerships, 2018 400 ® Research & development innovative FluidCrystal was a strong year, where we delivered in accordance with 300 Sales & marketing ® Administration our overall objectives. The approvals of Buvidal in the EU technology„ and Australia was a breakthrough for the company and a 200 validation of our innovative FluidCrystal® technology. After 100 years of commitment and hard work, it is gratifying to us all
0 to reach the goal of bringing a new important medicine to 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 the market and receiving positive testimonials from patients (CAM4072) for the treatment of genetic obesity disorders in and physicians. collaboration with Rhythm Pharmaceuticals. CAM4072 has With a newly launched medicine, a dedicated marketing Research and development MSEK 207.7 (222.9) shown promising results in clinical studies, including positive ® and sales organization, a broad and diversified development • Clinical studies with Buvidal in Australia pharmacokinetics and safety results in Phase 1. In 2018, pipeline of innovative products in late-stage development, • Phase 1 study of CAM2043 we received the first milestone payment from Rhythm, after multiple partnerships, and a unique drug-delivery technology • Development of pivotal clinical programs for completion of a successful Phase 1b. Thereafter, Rhythm has platform, Camurus is well positioned to become a leading CAM2029 and CAM2043 initiated a Phase 2 study of CAM4072 in patients with obesity. • Establishment of commercial manufacturing of Buvidal® player in opioid dependence – as well as in other disease According to Rhythm, data for the weekly formulation are very areas where our products and technologies can make a real Sales and marketing MSEK 100.9 (45.9) promising and we expect a decision to enter pivotal Phase 3 difference to patients. With this foundation, we aim to deliver • Establishment of marketing and sales organisation studies in late 2019. ® strong growth and value over the coming years. for Buvidal in the EU and Australia Several other collaborations based on our proprietary I want to thank all employees for their exceptional efforts FluidCrystal® technology have been started, including with during the year and our shareholders for their confidence CASH biotech and large pharmaceutical companies. These may POSITION and patience. OPERATING 31 DECEMBER become public after signing of license agreements. RESULT 2018 MSEK MSEK -287 134 Fredrik Tiberg, President & CEO
RIGHT ISSUE OF MSEK References 1. Lofwall et al. JAMA Int. Med. 2018:178(6):764-773. 2. Market Access Dynamics in Opioid Addiction: Probing Prescriber Preferences and Payer Strategies for Current and Emerging Agents in the EU5, Decision Resources, 2015. 3. Camurus conservative estimate, cf. Buvidal® in long-term safety Phase 3 study of ~270 days. 4. Camurus data Simon Kucher and Partners pricing research 2018. 5. Center for 403COMPLETED Disease Control and Prevention, 2018. 6. Pain Practice 2014, 14, 79–94. 7. Tiberg F, et al. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2015;80:460-72. 8. Pavel M, et IN MARCH 2019 al. Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology. 2019; 83:375–385. 9. Globaldata, 2019. 10. Lavrentaki A, et al. Pituitary. 2017;20(1):4-9. 11. Burton T, et al. Pituitary. 2016;19(3):262-7.
10 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 STRATEGY CEO STATEMENT
OUR MISSION To improve treatment outcomes and patients’ quality of life through simpler, smarter, and safer medications
OUR VISION To spearhead development of advanced drug delivery systems and innovative medical products to improve the treatment of patients with severe and chronic diseases
OUR VALUES Innovation We encourage innovation and new ways of thinking Expertise We leverage the combined expertise of our employees and partners Passion We are passionate about realizing our ideas and goals Quality We strive for excellence in everything we do and produce Ownership We take individual and collective ownership of what we do and how we do things
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 11 STRATEGY
Business model
We use our strong R&D expertise and world-leading drug delivery tech- To maximize the value of our pharmaceutical products, we have esta- nologies to develop new treatments that have the potential to significantly blished an effective commercial organization with an initial focus on improve the lives of patients with severe and chronic diseases. Innovative the opioid dependence markets in Europe and Australia, and other medicines are developed in-house or in partnerships with international specialty markets with suitable dynamics and a concentrated pharmaceutical companies under technology or product licenses. prescriber base.
MODEL BUSINESS CONCEPT KEY REVENUE STREAMS Own sales
Own product development Development and commercialization • Product sales and commercialization of innovative specialty pharmaceuticals
• Licence payments and development Product development Non-clinical and clinical development milestones in partnerships of novel pharmaceutical products • Royalty and sales milestones
Technology collaborations Product specific licenses to • Formulation design and early stage FluidCrystal® technology product evaluations
Partnerships
12 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 PRODUCTS AND PIPELINE
Products and Pipeline
Our clinical pipeline represents a mix of in-house and partnered programs from early stage of development to registration phase and marketed products. We strive to address the needs of patients and healthcare providers by developing products that can truly make a difference in patients’ everyday lives, improving treatment results and long-term recovery.
PRODUCT PHASE 1-2 PHASE 3 REGISTRATION MARKET
Buvidal® q1w OPIOID DEPENDENCE APPROVED
Buvidal® q4w OPIOID DEPENDENCE APPROVED
Brixadi™ q1w OPIOID DEPENDENCE1 TENTATIVELY APPROVED
Brixadi™ q4w OPIOID DEPENDENCE1 TENTATIVELY APPROVED
CAM2038 q1w CHRONIC PAIN 1 PHASE 3
CAM2038 q4w CHRONIC PAIN 1 PHASE 3
CAM2029 ACROMEGALY PHASE 1-2
CAM2029 NEUROENDOCRINE TUMORS PHASE 1-2 1) Braeburn holds the CAM2032 PROSTATE CANCER PHASE 1-2 rights to North America. 2) Developed by Rhythm GENETIC OBESITY DISORDERS2 PHASE 1-2 CAM4072 Pharmaceuticals under a worldwide license to CAM2043 PULMONARY ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION PHASE 1-2 FluidCrystal® CAM2047 CHEMOTHERAPY INDUCED NAUSEA & VOMITING PHASE 1-2 3) PONV: Postoperative nausea and vomiting. CAM2048/2058 POSTOPERATIVE PAIN & PONV 1,3 PHASE 1-2
MEDICAL DEVICE
episil® oral liquid ORAL MUCOSITIS
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 13 BUVIDAL®
A potential game-changer in the treatment of opioid dependence
14 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 BUVIDAL® BUVIDAL®
dence,” points out Antti Aivio, Country Lead First long-acting treatment for Finland and the Baltics, at Camurus. “And with daily medication, the drug stays in focus, even though the treatment program is trying to for opioid dependence in help patients think beyond their dependence on illicit drugs.” the EU and Australia Sublingual administration also has a number of drawbacks – including the risk of diversion (the unlawful channeling of prescrip- With the launch of Buvidal® in the EU and Australia, patients with tion drugs to the black market), misuse (use by opioid dependence have – for the first time – the possibility of a people for whom the drug has not been pre- scribed or use of dose other than prescribed), weekly or monthly individualized treatment, which aims to remove and accidental ingestion by children. Trust between the patient and healthcare professio- the risks, burden and stigma of daily medication, and help them in Antti Aivio their recovery journey with improved treatment outcomes. nal can become a barrier to treatment com- Medical Science Lead pliance, if the clinician questions whether the Finland and Baltics medication is being used as intended. “The relationship between the patient and Opioid dependence is a serious, chronic, TREATMENT ACCESS AND clinician is key to the success of the program, relapsing disease and a growing global public ATTRACTIVENESS health crisis. In 2016, an estimated 34 million One reason why so few patients with opioid but the risks associated with sublingual medi- people misused opioids, and 127,000 people dependence receive medication is simply that cation put pressure on the patient/clinician die each year from opioid overdoses.1 In the access to treatment is often limited. Significant relationship,” explains Mr Aivio. US, opioid dependence is the number one healthcare resources are required to provide a cause of death for people under the age of 55. 2 therapeutic program as patients must attend Of the 1.3 million high-risk opioid users Daily sublingual buprenorphine and meth- clinic every day to receive medication. If a in Europe, 76% live in five countries3 adone, the established treatments of opioid program is available, the rules and regulations 34 dependence, have been proven to reduce illicit for patients to enter and remain in the program 400 000 MILLION High-risk opioid users WORLDWIDE opioid use, limit the spread of blood-borne may also hinder the likelihood of a person 350 000 OPIOID USERS In treatment 1 viruses and decrease mortality. The social receiving or continuing to receive treatment. 300 000 IN 2016 functioning and quality of life for patients But it’s not just availability of treatment 250 000 receiving this treatment can also be improved. that is an issue – it is also the attractiveness 200 000 Yet less than half of the 1.3 million people with of the treatment program. Patients may shy opioid dependence in Europe receive medica- away from the burden of a daily treatment, 150 000 tion therapy and 40-50% of these discontinue which can be seen as stigmatizing and which 100 000 treatment within 6 months.3-6 impacts their employability and personal 50 000
lives: “With daily medication, patients are 0 reminded every day of their opioid depen- Germany UK Italy Spain France Australia
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 15 BUVIDAL®
Add to these challenges the fact that opioid dependence impairs judgement, and that Patients in Europe are patients often have a chaotic lifestyle, and it “ is understandable why the risk of patients not in great need of new returning for treatment each day is high. and more effective Dr Ayana Gibbs, Head of Medical Affairs medications for Northern Europe at Camurus, explains: „ “A patient misses one day, then another and another until they eventually drop out of the program. But then they relapse and need to At the end of 2018 Buvidal® (prolonged-release re-enter treatment. It’s a revolving door which buprenorphine), the firstlong-acting opioid is detrimental to the patient’s health and dependence treatment, was approved in the increases costs to payers and the healthcare EU and Australia, and received tentative system.” approval in the US (see side bar). Designed for once weekly or once monthly A NEW TREATMENT OPTION injection, Buvidal® delivers rapid and sustained Patients in Europe are in great need of new and suppression of withdrawal and cravings as well more effective medicationsthat can improve as opioid blockade from the first day of treat- treatment outcomes and quality of life for ment. In clinical trials, Buvidal® was shown to patients has been long awaited by the opioid improve treatment outcomes compared with dependence community, says Professor Sir ™ sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone. Tentative approval of Brixadi in the US John Strang, Director of the National Addiction Centre, King’s College, London, UK. In December 2018, the FDA issued a tentative approval of Brixadi™ (the US trade name for Buvidal ®) for the treatment of moderate- to-severe opioid use disorder in patients who have initiated treat- Limitations of current daily treatment ment with a single dose of a transmucosal buprenorphine product or who are already being treated with buprenorphine. With the Limited treatment adherence1, 3-8 tentative approval, Brixadi™ met all regulatory standards for US – Increased risk of relapse/overdose, 40–50% of patients approval, including safety, efficacy and quality, but final market terminate treatment with buprenorphine in the first 6 months approval of a monthly depot was determined subject to the ™ expiration of an exclusivity period granted to Sublocade until Burdens and stigma for patients1,7 30 November 2020. In April 2019, Camurus’ US partner Braeburn – Daily and supervised administration filed a lawsuit to the federal district court for the District of Columbia – Limited access and strict controls seeking to overturn the market exclusivity and pled for immediate ™ approval of Brixadi . Public health impact1,3 – Exposure to children and teenagers – Medication misuse, abuse and diversion – Huge healthcare and societal costs
16 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 BUVIDAL®
Finland. “It gives the possibility to develop new treatment regimens and may enhance treat- Buvidal® frees patients ment adherence and outcomes. Importantly, it “ also offers flexible dosing options that meet the from needing to think individual treatment needs of each patient.” about getting medi- “The first long-acting cations every day„ opioid dependence OVERCOMING THE BURDEN AND STIGMA treatment, was app- Camurus hopes that Buvidal® will help patients roved in the EU and to overcome the burden and stigma of daily “As a psychiatrist I know the time and mental opioid dependence treatment, and help space Buvidal® opens up for patients to engage Australia„ strengthen the patient/clinician relationship in psychosocial counselling and support for – leading to better treatment adherence and their dependence is very valuable,” she adds. outcomes. “Buvidal® has the potential to be a huge “Buvidal® frees patients from needing to game-changer.” ® Formulated with Camurus’ FluidCrystal think about getting medication every day,” injection depot technology, Buvidal® is a lipid- Dr Gibbs says. “It frees clinicians from the A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE based solution containing buprenorphine in ® worry that the medication is being misused. To prepare for the launch of Buvidal , in 2018 Ayana Gibbs MBChB, a prefilled syringe. The solution is injected And it frees up their time, as rather than dis- Camurus established strong commercial MRCPsych, PhD subcutaneously once weekly or once monthly pensing a medication every day they will have teams within sales, marketing, medical Head of Medical Affairs NEU using a conventional syringe with a thin need- more time to offer other forms of support.” affairs and market access across Europe and le. On injection, a gel-like depot is formed, which is then biodegraded at a controlled rate over time, releasing the buprenorphine which Buvidal® Key Features blocks the drug-liking effect of opioids in the brain and reduces withdrawal, craving and the patient’s use of illicit opioids. Weekly Monthly Multiple Choice of ® Buvidal has the potential to reduce the dosing dosing dosing injection sites risks of diversion, abuse, misuse and acciden- tal pediatric exposure, as the injection must be administered by a healthcare professional – so clinicians can be confident that the medi- cation is being used by the person for whom it was intended. Furthermore, the different doses and strengths allow the treatment to be individualized to suit the needs of the patient. Small Low Room temp Day 1 Clinical data vs “Buvidal® represents an important new needle volumes storage initiation Active control medical treatment option for patients with opioid dependence,” says Kaarlo Simojoki, Addiction Medicine Professor at University of Helsinki and Chief Physician of A-clinic Ltd, 23 gauge 0.16 – 0.64 mL
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 17 BUVIDAL®
Arnd Sprödefeld, Head of Marketing, Central Encouraging response Europe, at Camurus, agrees that the response “ from the market has been extremely positive. from patients and “Opioid dependence is a huge problem physicians„ globally and in Europe, and the access to treat- ment is limited. Buvidal® is a completely new ® Compelling clinical data for Buvidal treatment option, that can improve both the versus daily standard treatment access and the quality of treatment for opioid Australia, and expanded its global distribution dependence. We are working intensively • Non-inferior and superior efficacy • Safety profile comparable to network to ensure access to treatment. with clinicians and healthcare personnel to shown in pivotal Phase 3 study SL BPN/NX except for mild and To date, Buvidal® has been launched in share experiences and improve treatment for versus standard daily SL BPN/NX9 moderate injection site reactions9 Finland, Sweden, Denmark, the UK and patients.” This is very exciting and rewarding, • Sustained suppression of withdrawal • No opioid overdoses across clinical Germany, with encouraging response from he says. and cravings9-11 studies for participants treated with patients and physicians. “We are motivated by the large medical • Blockade of opioid effects from Buvidal® 9-12 “The day before we launched in Finland, need and the great opportunity to improve the first dose10 • High patient satisfaction two doctors, from different clinics in Finland, treatment results and quality of life for including versus SL BPN13 called me as they had patients already wai- patients.” ting to start the treatment. And patients have been approaching the clinics spontaneously asking about this treatment – patients who haven’t accepted the rules of daily medication Weekly Buvidal®/Daily SL BPN14 Monthly Buvidal®/Weekly Buvidal®14 programs but are now interested in weekly or monthly treatment,” says Mr Aivio. Median CAM2038 q1w 32mg Median CAM2038 q4w 128mg 100 95% CI CAM2038 q1w 32mg 100 95% CI CAM2038 q4w 128mg Median SL BPN 24mg Median CAM2038 q1w 32mg 95% CI SL BPN 24mg References 1. World Drug Report 2018 (United Nations publication, Sales No. E.18.XI.9). 2. Frazier et al, 95% CI CAM2018 q1w 32mg 2017, Journal of the American Medical Association. European Drug Report 2018, EMCDDA. Soyka M, et 10 10 3. 4. al. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2008;11(5):641-653. 5. Apelt SM, et al. Pharmacopsychiatry. 2013;46(3):94–107. 6. Pinto H, et al. J Subst Abuse Treat. 2010;39(4):340-352. 7. Benyamina A Heroin Addict Relat Clin Probl. 1 1 2012;14(4):65–80. 8. Degenhardt L, Charlson F, Mathers B, et al. Addiction. 2014;109(8):1320–1333. 9. Lofwall MR, et al. JAMA Intern Med 2018; 178(6)764–773. 10. Walsh et al, JAMA Psychiatry 2017;74(9):894- 902. 11. Haasen, C, et al, J Subst Abuse Treat. 2017;78:22-29. 12. Lintzeris et al., Drug and alcohol review. Plasma BPN conc (ng/mL) conc BPN Plasma (ng/mL) conc BPN Plasma 0,1 0,1 2017;36(S1):47-48. 13. Study HS-14-499, data on file.14. Albayaty M, et al, Adv Ther. 2017 34(2):560-575. 15. Market Access Dynamics in Opioid Addiction: Probing Prescriber Preferences and Payer Strategies for 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 0 7 14 21 28 Current and Emerging Agents in the EU5, Decision Resources, 2015. 16. Camurus conservative estimate, Time (days) Time (days) cf. Buvidal® retention in long-term safety Phase 3 study of ~270 days. 17. Camurus data Simon Kucher and Partners pricing research 2018. 18. Opioid Use Disorder (OUD): Opportunity Analysis and Forecasts to 2027, Population pharmacokinetic analysis and modelling based on data from four clinical trials GlobalData, 2018. 19. Camurus data on file 2018 Patient qualitative study
18 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 BUVIDAL®
Market potential of long-acting injectables (LAIs) in opioid dependence in EU and Australia 15-17
~740,000 total addressable patient number for LAIs in EU and Australia 740,000 addressable 20-30% on long-acting Estimated market size Average length of Pricing comparable patients in EU and injectables in €200-€300m for treatment ~180 days with depot antipsychotics Australia base case LAIs at peak 800 000 231' 740' 700 000
600 000 191' 500 000
400 000 266' 52' 300 000
Launch sequence 200 000 100 000
WAVE 1 0 MARKETS Patients Patients on Patients User out of Total on Bup3 low dose recycling treatment addressable Germany, UK, Australia, Finland, Sweden, Methadone within a due to rules market 30mg year3 & burden3, 7, 19 Danmark, Norway
310,000 patients: 45% of total EU/Aus
WAVE 2 MARKETS ESTIMATED MARKET SIZE FOR LONG-ACTING INJECTABLES Italy, Spain, France, Israel 299,000 patients: 44% of total EU/Aus EUR 200-300 MILLION WAVE 3 AT PEAK IN EUROPE MARKET GROWTH AND AUSTRALIA15-17
Benelux, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, Ireland, Czech, Austria, Poland
86,000 patients: 9% of total EU/Aus
WAVE 4 USD MARKET EXPANSION 3.1 BILLION 2027 IN THE US18 RoW
Market shaping
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 19 PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
Buvidal®– Scientific publications and presentations
In 2018, key results were presented at numerous international conferences and regional meetings as well as in leading publications:
Publications 2018: • CPDD College on Problem Drugs and Dependence, • Lofwall MR, Walsh SL, Nunes EV, Bailey GL, Sigmon SC, June 9-14, San Diego, USA Kampman KM, Frost M, Tiberg F, Linden M, Sheldon B, • CSAM Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine, Oosman S, Peterson S, Chen M, Kim S. JAMA Intern Med. October 25-28, Vancouver, Canada 2018;178(6):764-773 • ISAM International Society of Addiction Medicine, • ElKashef A, Alzayani S, Shawky M, Al Abri M, Littlewood R, November 3-6, Busan, Republic of Korea Qassem T, Alsharqi A, Hjelmström P, Abdel Wahab M, • APSAD Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol Abdulraheem M, Alzayed A., Journal of Substance Use, and other Drugs, November 4-7, Auckland, New Zealand 2019;24(1):4-7 • SSA Society for the Study of Addiction, November 8-9, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK Conferences and meetings 2018: • ISPOR, November 10-14, Barcelona, Spain • AAAP American Academy of Addiction Society, • AATOD American Association for the Treatment of December 6-9, Bonita Springs, USA Opioid Dependence, March 10-14, New York, USA • ASAM American Society for Addiction Medicine. April 12-15, San Diego, USA • AMCP Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy, April 23-26, Boston, USA • APA American Psychological Association, May 5-9, New York, USA • IOTOD Improving Outcomes in the Treatment of Opioid Depdendence, May 15-16, Madrid, Spain • Europad European Opioid Addiction Treatment Association, May 25-27, Krakow, Poland • Albatros Congrès International d’Addictologie de l’Albatros, June 6-8, Paris, France
20 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 EMPLOYEE PORTRAITS
Nina Bladh Max Miller Director CMC Regulatory Affairs Research Scientist, Analytical Development
My role at Camurus is to ensure we are compliant with I come from Oregon in the US and was attracted to regulatory requirements within the so-called chemistry, Camurus as it appeared to be an interesting and dynamic manufacturing and control (CMC) area. Pharmaceuti- pharmaceutical company. It is very rewarding to take cal development includes so many different dimensi- part in the development of a leading technology plat- ons, such as clinical effect, safety, functionality when form such as FluidCrystal®, and pharmaceuticals with administered by the user, and manufacturability. The the potential to help hundreds of thousands of people development complexity arising from this combination around the globe. of product characteristics is extremely interesting and I work with the development and implementation exciting to work with. of new analytical methods. At Camurus we work Camurus is a relatively small company where you cross-functionally and everbody contributes with their get involved in a broad scope of activities. This gives knowledge and experience in the projects. a great opportunity for new experiences and personal development. The atmosphere between colleagues at all levels at Camurus is fantastic.
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 21 FLUIDCRYSTAL® TECHNOLOGY PLATFORM
22 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 FLUIDCRYSTAL® TECHNOLOGY PLATFORM
FluidCrystal® – lipid-based nano-technologies
FluidCrystal® technologies have been designed to improve medication delivery and therapeutic performance.
FluidCrystal® FluidCrystal® FluidCrystal® INJECTION DEPOT TOPICAL BIOADHESIVE NANOPARTICLES Long-acting release with Unique bioadhesion extends and Nanoparticle carriers with high solubilizing capacity user-friendly administration reinforces treatment efficacy increase active pharmaceutical ingredient absorption and bioavailability
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 23 FLUIDCRYSTAL® TECHNOLOGY PLATFORM
® INJECTION DEPOT The simplicity of the FluidCrystal® injection FluidCrystal depot, including a spontaneous self-associa- KEY ATTRIBUTES tion to a functional structure in the body, elimi- • Easy and convenient administration nates complicated manufacturing procedures FluidCrystal® injection depot provides treatment efficacy over • Improved treatment adherence and the need for mixing (reconstitution) prior • Adapted to pre-filled syringes and extended periods – from days to months – with a single injection. to administration. auto-injectors Medicines based on the FluidCrystal® It can reduce the burden of daily medication while increasing • Long-acting release of active injection depot can be administered by the adherence to therapy. pharmaceutical ingredient patients themselves or by healthcare professi- • Small injection volume with onals, without time-consuming and complica- a thin needle ted reconstitution procedures. The prolonged FluidCrystal® injection depot comprises a gel, which effectively encapsulates the active • Good safety profile action reduces the patient’s burden of admi- homogeneous lipid-based solution with a ingredient. The pharmaceutical compound • Manufacturing by standard nistering medication daily, improves treatment dissolved active pharmaceutical ingredient is then slowly released at a controlled rate as processes adherence and outcomes, and ultimately that can easily be injected subcutaneously the depot gradually biodegrades in the tissue. • Suitable for biological peptides improves the patient’s quality of life. using a conventional syringe with a thin needle. This release can be controlled, from several as well as small molecules Upon contact with fluids in the tissue, the days to weeks or months, depending on the lipid solution transforms into a liquid crystalline choice of lipid composition and other factors.
FluidCrystal® injection depot Immediate release pasireotide pasireotide (Signifor®) 100 100
Pasireotide FkuidCrystal® 20 mg (SC thigh, n = 12) Pasireotide IR 600 ug (SC thigh, n = 94) 1. Subcutaneous injection of lipid based formulation 10 10 2. Formation of liquid crystalline gel on absorption of water (W) 3. Sustained release of drug substance (D),
1 1 degradation of depot
1 2 3 pasireotide plasma concentration (ng/mL) concentration plasma pasireotide pasireotide plasma concentration (ng/mL) concentration plasma pasireotide 0,1 0,1 0 7 14 21 28 0 7 14 21 28 Time (days) Time (days)
Pharmacokinetic profiles (plasma concentration of pharmaceutical substance over time) following the admini- stration of pasireotide formulated in FluidCrystal® injection depot (left figure) compared to an immediate release formulation of pasireotide, (right figure). (Tiberg, F. et al, Poster presentation at ECF, Barcelona, May, 2018).
24 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 FLUIDCRYSTAL® TECHNOLOGY PLATFORM
FluidCrystal® TOPICAL BIOADHESIVE FluidCrystal® NANOPARTICLES
FluidCrystal® topical bioadhesive slowly and precisely releases FluidCrystal® nanoparticles can resolve the issue of bioavailability pharmaceutical substances systemically or locally, and can also for water and fat-soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients provide protection of sensitive and inflamed tissues. sensitive for biodegradation, e.g. peptides and proteins.
The formulation has a high solubilizing capa- city, which allows relatively small dosage KEY ATTRIBUTES KEY ATTRIBUTES volumes to achieve therapeutic effects with • Strong adhesion to biological • Prolonged systemic active pharma the active ingredient. FluidCrystal® topical surfaces ceutical ingredient circulation bioadhesive can be administered using mete- • Protects sensitive tissues (parenteral administration) red dose pumps, tubes, capsules and other • Relieves topical pain • Enhanced delivery over mucosal and primary packaging forms for liquids. • High solubilizing capacity for skin surfaces (topical administration) active pharmaceutical ingredients • Protection of sensitive therapeutic • Extended local or systemic substances release of active ingredients • High solubilization capacity for • Good local tolerability active ingredients • Manufacturing by standard • Good systemic and local tolerability processes demonstrated in pre-clinical and clinical trials
FluidCrystal® topical bioadhesive is a low-vis- FluidCrystal® nanoparticles are usually water cosity liquid product that forms a strong and based and comprise a stable emulsion of thin bioadhesive film after administration on nanoparticles with a liquid crystalline structure. tissue surfaces. The nanostructure of the film Products based on this technology are admi- can be controlled to achieve an optimal deliv- nistered either parenterally via injections or ery profile and bioadhesive strength, making as a liquid sprayed onto the skin or mucous it suitable for prolonged local release of active membranes. pharmaceutical ingredients on the skin and The commercial product episil® is based on on mucosal membranes of, for example, the FluidCrystal® topical bioadhesive. Read more mouth, nose and throat. about episil® on page 40.
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 25 CAM2038 PAIN
An effective and potentially safer treatment of chronic pain
Chronic pain management is a difficult clinical challenge in medicine today, with limited treatment options available, a high unmet medical need and a risk of developing dependence. Weekly and monthly CAM2038 may deliver durable pain relief without the risks of tolerance development, dependence, abuse, diversion and overdose.
Chronic pain impacts the lives of one in five dose and death, which is drastically illustrated adults in Europe and the US – and a staggering by the ongoing global opioid crisis. Further- 1.5 billion people globally.1 Lower back pain, more, patients tend to become tolerant to arthritis, headache, and face and jaw pain full agonist opioids, requiring ever increasing are the most common types of chronic pain. doses, which ultimately can result in addic- Moderate pain may prevent a person from tion, as well as risks of opioid prescriptions participating in their daily activities, while being diverted onto the black market, misused severe pain typically stops a person from and exposed to children and teenagers. participating in those activities and prompts CAM2038 – KEY TARGET them to exhibit pain-avoidance behavior. With associated societal costs estimated to Global market for chronic pain ATTRIBUTES 6 • Round-the-clock pain relief 560-635 billion dollar a year,2 chronic pain USD 23.3 billion • Dose-proportional long-term represents a significant global health problem. buprenorphine exposure 41% Opioids • Improved treatment adherence OPIOID TREATMENT • Reduced number of administrations Opioids are used for the management of • Reduced risk of misuse, abuse and moderate to severe acute and chronic pain diversion that cannot be adequately controlled by other • Reduced risk of overdose compared pain medications. However, use of opioid with full µ-opioid receptor agonists analgesics may result in dependence, over-
26 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CAM2038 PAIN
Registration program for CAM2038 moderate to severe acute pain and transder- in chronic pain targets opioid mal patches for chronic pain. The patches experienced patients provide stable but relatively low plasma con- centrations of buprenorphine over a period no longer than 7 days. The low buprenorphine ESTIMATED TO AFFECT plasma concentrations result in inadequate Completion of long-term “Treatment adherence safety extension study analgesic effect for patients requiring high opioid levels. may be improved„ 100 75 MILLION MILLION AMERICANS1 EUROPEANS5 CAM2038: DEVELOPMENT OF SAFER AND MORE EFFECTIVE TREATMENT OF Scientific advice/ care professional, so treatment adherence CHRONIC PAIN pre-MAA meetings may be improved and the known risks of Weekly and monthly CAM2038 have been tolerance development, dependence, misuse, evaluated in a Phase 3 efficacy trial in opioid diversion, and overdose are reduced. experienced patients with chronic low-back The long-term safety of CAM2038 is pain. The trial successfully met its primary MAA submissions to EMA and currently being evaluated in a 52-week open TGA expected first half of 2020 efficacy endpoint of average pain intensity label extension study, in which patients are 1 IN 5 INDIVIDUALS SUFFERING (API) demonstrating that patients with chronic FROM CHRONIC PAIN5 either continuing from the randomized effica- low-back pain receiving treatment with cy part of the Phase 3 study or are included CAM2038 experienced a statistically superior directly in the open label extension phase. Focus on high risk, high need reduction in pain compared with patients tre- Marketing authorization application submis- opioid experienced patients ated with placebo (p<0.001). Furthermore, CHRONIC PAIN sions are currently planned for the first half the key secondary endpoint of worst pain ESTIMATED of 2020. intensity also demonstrated statistically sig- In the US, CAM2038 for the treatment of nificant reduction (p<0.001). moderate to severe chronic pain in opioid- USD~600 tolerant patients is being developed in colla- BILLION Buprenorphine is an effective opioid analgesic boration with Braeburn who has exclusive ANNUAL COST TO THE US SOCIETY 2 at least 30 times more potent than morphine. “Limited treatment rights to North America. However, as a partial agonist, it exhibits a options available maximal ceiling on some opioid effects which „ are less than those of full agonists like morphine and heroin.3 Importantly, buprenorphine has a ceiling effect on respiratory depression and The development focus for CAM2038 in therefor remains one of the safest opioids. In chronic pain has been on transferring patients addition, buprenorphine has a less significant treated with opioids at morphine- References: 1. Global Industry Analysts, Inc. effect on gastrointestinalactivity, resulting dose equivalents of 40 mg/day or more to Report, 2011. 2. Gaskin D, Richard P. The Journal in less constipation compared to full opioid long-acting buprenorphine. CAM2038 may of Pain, 2012; 13 (8): 715–724. 3. Dahan A, et al. Br J Anaesth. 2005;94:825-34. 4. Tompkins DA, et al. receptor agonists.4 offer this patient group a safer treatment J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2014;348(2):217-26. 5. Pain Buprenorphine is currently available in option as it is administered as a weekly or Practice 2014, 14, 79–94. 6. Disease Landscape and short-acting injectable formulations to treat monthly subcutaneous injection by a health- Forecast Chronic Pain, Decision Resources 2015.
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 27 CAM2029 ACROMEGALY AND NET
CAM2029 for the treatment of acromegaly and neuro- endocrine tumors
Acromegaly and neuroendocrine tumors are rare, chronic diseases that impact quality of life and cause premature death. CAM2029 has the potential to simplify treatment and improve treatment efficacy.
Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder, in which acromegaly. “I work in a large hospital unit the pituitary gland produces excessive am- both as a practicing physician and researcher. ounts of growth hormone. Often caused by These are very complex diseases with major benign tumors on the pituitary, acromegaly challenges in both diagnosis and treatment,” can lead to type 2 diabetes, high blood pres- he explains. sure, arthritis and increased risk of cardiovas- Acromegaly and NET are rare diseases, Somatostatin analogue sales2 1-3 cular disease. Left untreated, acromegaly leads with an estimated prevalence of 8 per 100,000 (million USD) to serious illness and reduces life expectancy. and 54 per 100,000 4, respectively. However, 2600 Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are a group incidence rates in NET have increased in recent Somatuline® (Ipsen) 2340 of rare tumors, originating from regulatory years and there is an unmet medical need for Sandostatin® LAR® (Novartis) 2080 1820 hormone-producing neuroendocrine cells, a treatment that is more convenient and less 1560 that can arise throughout the body. Like acro- painful for patients with these chronic diseases. 1300 megaly, NET are frequently diagnosed late 1040 in the disease progression. Most NET are CURRENT THERAPEUTIC OPTIONS 780 malignant and have often spread to other The most rapid and effective option for com- 520 260 parts of the body by the time of diagnosis. plete cure of acromegaly and NET is surgery. 0 Dr Diego Ferone, Assistant Professor at the However, for the majority of patients surgery 2011 2017 2014 2012 2015 2018 2013 2016 2010 1999 2001 2007 2002 2003 2004 2005 2008 2009 2006 Department of Internal Medicine & Medical Speci- is not possible and for those the somatostatin 2000 alties at the University of Genova and secretary analogues (SSAs), such as octreotide and The annual growth of the SSA market has increased of the Italian Endocrine Society, is involved in lanreotide, are the standard medical therapy. by a CAGR of 13 percent over the last 20 years studies on the physiopathology and treatment These stop the body from producing too of pituitary and neuroendocrine tumors and much growth hormone, thereby reducing
28 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CAM2029 ACROMEGALY AND NET
Dr Ferone explains the limitations of current treatments, and that “patients are intolerant CAM2029 – KEY TARGET to medical treatment because of the mode of ATTRIBUTES administration of current medications and so • Subcutaneous long-acting octreotide adherence is poor”. • Fast onset and one month duration PREVALENCE OF “CAM2029 has the of therapeutic plasma-levels ACROMEGALY potential to simplify CAM2029 CAN SIMPLIFY AND • Provided ready-for-use in prefilled IMPROVE TREATMENT syringes for easy self-administration treatment and improve CAM2029 is a long-acting octreotide solution • Compatible with autoinjectors ® PER treatment efficacy„ formulated with Camurus’ FluidCrystal injec- • High bioavailability – 500% higher 8 tion depot technology, for the treatment of ® ® than Sandostatin LAR , with 1-3 acromegaly and NET. potential for better treatment 100,000 CAM2029 is being developed as a pre- effects in some patients severity of symptoms and slowing disease filled syringe, ready-to-use and not requiring progression. Current long-acting SSAs are reconstitution prior to subcutaneous admini- administered either via an intra-muscular or stration. The formulation is also compatible deep subcutaneous injection once a month. with autoinjectors which could further enhance a totally different perspective on treatment for PREVALENCE These medications must be refrigerated, and the ease of administration. Furthermore, patients.” “In fact, patients in clinical trials who OF NET so require conditioning to room temperature CAM2029 is administered subcutaneously have experienced treatment with CAM2029 before administration. They also have a com- with a thinner needle than currently marketed have expressed their willingness to continue on therapies, which may lead to less painful plex reconstitution procedure and/or a long this treatment – this underlines the acceptability PER injections. 54 injection time with a relatively thick needle. and tolerance for a treatment that can be 4 These long-acting SSAs therefore require self-administered at home,” he continues. 100,000 administration by a specially trained healthcare CAM2029 for the treatment of acromegaly professional – and the treatment burden for Patients find subcuta- has been granted orphan designation by the patients is significant. “ European Commission. This status is given to neous administration so
Octreotide plasma concentrations much more acceptable„ IGF-1 concentrations
CAM2029 30mg q4w CAM2029-BR 30mg q4w 100 300 OCT LAR 30mg q4w OCT LAR 30mg q4w “CAM2029 is very interesting because it is 10 based on a known active ingredient which we 200 already use, but delivered in a different way,” 1 explains Dr Ferone. “Adherence and tolerance to treatment may improve, because patients 100 0,1 Plasma OCT conc (ng/mL) conc OCT Plasma Plasma OCT conc (ng/mL) conc OCT Plasma find subcutaneous administration so much more acceptable. The possibility of self-injec- 0,01 0 0 14 28 42 56 70 84 98 tion is an important achievement, which puts 0 14 28 42 56 70 84 98
Time (days) Time (days)
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 29 CAM2029 ACROMEGALY AND NET
The pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy of CAM2029 have been documented in Phase 1 Planning a phase 3 In July 2018, Camurus regained the and 2 clinical trials. Following administration, “ global development and commerci- CAM2029 has been shown to give rapid and trial for CAM2029 for alization rights to CAM2029 and long-acting release of octreotide to thera- the treatment of acro- related assets from Novartis. May improve treatment peutic concentrations – and has 500% higher megaly in mid-2019„ “ bioavailability of octreotide compared to the Novartis had been responsible for ® ® 5 efficacy for patients not market-leading product (Sandostatin LAR ) , the development of CAM2029 since responding satisfactorily which may improve treatment efficacy for October 2013. The company retur- to current therapies patients not responding satisfactorily to FURTHER DEVELOPMENT AND ned the rights to Camurus due to „ current therapies. POTENTIAL OF CAM2029 commercial reprioritization among The results of the Phase 2 trial demonstra- Camurus is planning a Phase 3 trial for its different programs. According to ted that CAM2029 provides well maintained or CAM2029 for the treatment of acromegaly Novartis, this decision did not reflect improved biochemical control in patients with in mid-2019, to assess the superiority of a change in the view of the develop- medicines of significant benefit to patients with acromegaly and symptom control in patients CAM2029 compared to placebo in maintaining ment of CAM2029. rare diseases and provides several benefits with functioning NET after switching from biochemical response. The long-term safety, during product development, such as scien- Sandostatin® LAR® (see figure).7 pharmacokinetics and patient satisfaction for tific advice and protocol assistance, and addi- “CAM2029 has a much more favorable CAM2029 will also be evaluated. In addition, tional market exclusivity once the medicine is profile than current medications, and in some Phase 3 trials for CAM2029 for the treatment approved. cases we have seen an improvement in treat- of patients with NET and also other potential ment efficacy, which is extremely interesting,” indications are being planned. Dr Ferone says.
Patient 1 Patient 3 Oct-LAR CAM2029 250 2 Patient 2 Patient 4 Patient 5 Bowel movments
187,5 1,5 Flushings
References: 1. Lavrentaki A, et al. Pituitary. 2017; 125 1 20(1):4-9. 2. Burton T, et al. Pituitary. 2016;19(3):262-7. 3. Broder MS, et al. Endocrine practice : official journal of the American College of Endocrinology and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. 62,5 0,5 2016;22(11):1327-35. 4. Dasari A, et al. JAMA Oncol.
Time weighted average (% of ULN) 2017;3(19):1335-42. 5. Tiberg F, et al. Br J Clin Pharma- Monthly mean number symptoms/day col. 2015;80:460-72. 6. GlobalData 2019. 7. Analysis 0 0 of data from Pavel M, et al. Cancer Chemotherapy and Day -28 - 0 Day 0 - 28 Day 28 - 56 Day 56 - 84 Day -28 - 0 Day 0 - 28 Day 28 - 56 Day 56 - 84 Pharmacology. 2019; 83:375–385.
CAM2029 scientific publication: Time average IGF-1 concentration for acromegaly patients treated with Sandostatin® LAR® and switched to CAM2029 (left). Pavel M, et al. Cancer Chemotherapy and Average number of symptoms per day for NET patients treated with Sandostatin® LAR® and switched to CAM2029 (right) Pharmacology. 2019; 83:375–385
30 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2017 CAM2043 PAH
CAM2043 for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Pulmonary arterial hypertension is progressive, life-threatening, and commonly diagnosed only when the disease is at an advanced stage. CAM2043 has been designed to overcome the drawbacks of current therapies, including the burden of complicated and potentially painful administration and the associated risks of infection.
respiratory diseases. As a result, time from Without therapeutic symptom onset to disease diagnosis is on “ average more than 2 years and without thera- intervention, median peutic intervention, median overall survival is overall survival is less less than 3 years from diagnosis. The cause of PAH has been linked to several than 3 years„ factors and may develop due to imbalances in the endothelial, nitric oxide and prostacyclin path- ways. With a prevalence of 6.6 to 26 per million Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is cau- adults in developed countries, it is estimated that sed by thickening of the walls of the pulmona- about 35,000 patients within the EU have PAH.1 ry arteries, thereby narrowing the passage for blood to pass through with increased vascular CURRENT THERAPIES HAVE blood pressure and resistance as result. This DRAWBACKS may in turn lead to right ventricular failure and PAH is incurable but specialist treatments are premature death. The early symptoms of PAH available which reduce symptoms and slow – such as shortness of breath, dizziness and disease progression. fatigue – are often mild and similar to many Prostanoids are the most potent treatment other conditions, such as cardiovascular and for PAH. Treprostinil, a prostacyclin analogue,
CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 31 CAM2043 PAH
“CAM2043 – a single weekly dose which can ESTIMATED NUMBER CURRENTLY DIAGNOSED be self-administered PATIENTS WITH PAH1 by patients„ 24,000 IN THE US has been used to treat PAH since its approval by the US FDA in 2002. It works by dilating 35,000 the narrowed vessels in the lungs, so that IN EU more blood can flow through, resulting in a reduction of the pulmonary arterial blood pressure. This leads to improved oxygen GLOBAL PAH transportation, increased cardiac output and, MARKET EXCEEDS over time, less strain on the heart. Treprostinil is available as subcutaneous and intravenous infusions, and as an inhalation and oral product. The most effective treatment USD has been shown to be infusion products, but, as treprostinil only lasts for a few minutes 5 2 BILLION
Treprostinil Product Sales2
Million USD
1500
Orenitram Tyvaso Remodulin in the bloodstream, it must be continuously 1125 pumped 24 hours a day into the body using Reducing the risk an external catheter or pump. This makes “ administration complicated, often painfully of infusion-related 750 intolerable and burdensome for the patient. In infections and pain addition, the administration procedures are „ associated with risks of serious bloodstream
375 infections. This type of treatment is therefore primarily used in patients with more severe PAH. active ingredient, complex dosing schedules Oral and inhaled treprostinil are used to treat (inhaled treprostinil may be taken 6-9 times a 0 less severe cases of PAH. But factors such day) and handling of the inhalation device, are
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 as poor bioavailability and variability of the limiting their use.
32 CAMURUS ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CAM2043 PAH
Single dose pharmacokinetic profiles3 “Phase 2 trial expected POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF mg to start in the second First dose CAM2043 IN PAH . mg hird dose• Possibility for earlier introduction of mg half of 2019 mg „ parenteral treprostinil treatment • Steady plasma profiles may improve efficacy versus oral and inhaled ostinil plasma ostinil plasma . . prostacyclin products
ep r CAM2043ep r has a favorable pharmacokinetic r r
concentration ng m profile, concentration ng m providing a steady release of treprostinil • Improved convenience for patients with a profile suitable for weekly or less frequent with no need for infusion pumps. . . • No risk of infusion-related blood dosing. CAM2043 is being developed as a ime days small dose volume, allowing dose ime days titration for stream infections efficacy and tolerability. CAM2043 therefore • Enhanced quality of life for patients Repeated dose has the potential to be a treatment alternative pharmacokinetic profiles3 not only to infusion products but also oral and