Cempra Pharmaceuticals has entered into an agreement with Hospira One 2 One to develop an intravenous form of its lead antibiotic candidate, solithromycin. Hospira One 2 One will supply the IV version of the antibiotic for clinical development and potential commercial supply. Financial terms were not disclosed. This story was first reported by Triangle Business Journal Online.
 
If the drug reaches approval, Cempra will purchase at least 80% of its commercial product from Hospira, according to a recent 8-K filing by Cempra. The IV version is currently in Phase II trials, while an oral version began a Phase III trial against community-acquired bacterial pneumonia in December 2012. The IV version will also be tested against that indication.

“The One 2 One™ team is excited to assist Cempra Pharmaceuticals in the development and manufacture of their novel antibiotic product, Solithromycin. We appreciate the trust that Cempra Pharmaceuticals places with Hospira’s anti-infective and lyophilization expertise. I look forward to the day this promising drug can obtain approval and reach patients,” said Karen Blair, vice president, general manager, One 2 One™ Global Pharmaceutical Services.