Endo Pharmaceuticals has signed a worldwide license and development agreement with U.S.-based BioDelivery Sciences International for BEMA Buprenorphine, a transmucosal form of buprenorphine that incorporates a bioerodible mucoadhesive (BEMA) technology. The drug is currently in Phase III trials for the treatment of moderate to severe chronic pain.

BioDelivery Sciences will receive an upfront payment of $30 million, royalties on sales, and as much as $150 million in milestones based on the achievement of certain clinical and regulatory milestones and certain sales targets.

“Endo is committed to serving as an integrated solutions provider for the development and commercialization of products focused on the management of pain,” said Dave Holveck, president and chief executive officer of Endo Pharmaceuticals. “The addition of BEMA Buprenorphine will broaden Endo's portfolio of pain therapeutics, allowing us to offer an integrated suite of products that currently include Opana ER, Voltaren Gel and Lidoderm, as well as a broad range of generic pain products. We look forward to working closely with BDSI on the development of this important asset.”