moksha8 Pharmaceuticals and, Covis Pharma B.V. (Covis), announced they have signed an agreement whereby moksha8 will have the exclusive distribution rights to commercialize and promote Alvesco & Omnaris Brands in Mexico and Brazil. The distribution rights are subject to obtaining and/or transferring marketing authorizations in each country.

Both products contain Ciclesonide, a novel corticosteroid that helps relieve inflammation. Alvesco is an inhaled product used for the treatment of persistent asthma and Omnaris is a nasal spray used for the treatment of nasal symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial rhinitis.

According to the World Health Organization, ~235 million people worldwide have asthma1, with the number likely to be higher due to under-diagnosis. The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) and other studies have shown a marked increase in the prevalence of asthma worldwide over the last few decades. In the U.S., the prevalence of current asthma is ~8% in adults and 9.3% in children.2 In contrast, over half of Latin American countries report a prevalence of childhood asthma greater than 15%.3 Different approaches to asthma management are needed in the region, such strategies must include adequate access to medications, patient education, and monitoring asthma control.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a chronic upper airway inflammatory disease that affects ∼60 million adults and children in the United States. The duration and severity of AR symptoms contribute to a substantial burden on patients, quality of life, sleep, work productivity, and activity. The prevalence of physician-diagnosed AR was 14% in U.S. adults, 7% in Latin America adults, and 9% in Asia-Pacific adults. Nasal congestion is the most common and bothersome symptom for adults. 4,5

moksha8 Pharmaceuticals continues with its commitment of bringing innovative products to the LA region and this agreement reinforces its strategic focus in the respiratory area.

“We are committed to work closely with Covis Pharma to deliver Ciclesonide benefits to asthma and rhinitis patients, we will ensure constant engagement with patients, physicians and customers of Alvesco and Omnaris in Mexico and Brazil Markets” said Joel Barlan, Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to working with moksha8 as our partner in Mexico and Brazil and expanding our global respiratory / allergy franchise” said Christian Calcagno, Covis’ SVP of Business Development and M&A.

m8 is committed to working hard to further contribute to Asthma and Rhinitis treatment in the LA region.