Teva Pharmaceuticals International has entered a global licence agreement with Alder BioPharmaceuticals for anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antibodies and their usage techniques.

The agreement is intended to settle an opposition by Alder to Teva’s European Patent No. 1957106 B1.

It provides Alder with a non-exclusive licence to Teva’s patent portfolio of anti-CGRP antibodies for the development, manufacture and commercialisation of eptinezumab in the US and other international markets, except Japan and Korea.

Alder BioPharmaceuticals president and CEO Randall Schatzman said: "This agreement solidifies Alder’s freedom to operate and provides a clear path for us to commercialise eptinezumab and, if approved, deliver this potential treatment option to the many patients suffering from migraine."

"This agreement reinforces the broad coverage provided by Teva’s IP in the field of anti-CGRP antibodies therapy."

Under the agreement, Alder will withdraw the patent-related appeal and make two $25m payments, one immediate and another upon biologics licence application (BLA) approval of Alder’s eptinezumab in the licence territory with existing Teva patents.

After the commercial launch of eptinezumab, the firm will pay additional $75m at each of two sales-related milestones, along with select royalty payments on net sales.

Teva Pharmaceutical Specialist R&D chief scientific officer and head Marcelo Bigal said: "This agreement reinforces the broad coverage provided by Teva’s IP in the field of anti-CGRP antibodies therapy.

"At the same time, it also helps facilitate the ongoing development of additional potential therapies in this exciting field – this can only be good for our increased understanding of the area and ultimately improved patient well-being."