Allergan completes acquisition of Kythera, adds Kybella to aesthetics portfolio

Allergan announced in a press release it has completed its acquisition of Kythera Biopharmaceuticals in an all cash transaction valued at approximately $2.1 billion.

The acquisition adds Kybella (deoxycholic acid) injection to Allergan’s facial aesthetics portfolio. Kybella was approved by the FDA on April 29 for improving the appearance of moderate-to-severe submental fullness, or double-chin, in adults, and was launched in the U.S. on June 19, according to the release.

“Kybella is a game-changing product in facial aesthetics, and builds on our leadership in the facial aesthetics market,” Brent Saunders, CEO and president of Allergan, said in the release. “Kybella, a product I have been treated with myself, is also a key entry point for expanding the use of our aesthetics products for men, a growing market opportunity in both the U.S. and around the world.”

Health Canada recently approved the deoxycholic acid injection, marketed as Belkyra. Kythera also recently submitted a marketing authorization application in the European Union, seeking approval for ATX-101 (deoxycholic acid) injection as treatment for reduction of submental fat when the presence of submental fat has a psychological impact on the patient, according to the release.

Derek H. Jones

“In my practice, I see many patients – both men and women of varying ages – who complain about submental fullness of the chin, even those who have an otherwise balanced facial appearance, eat healthy and are physically fit,” Derek H. Jones, MD, associate professor of dermatology, UCLA, and founder and medical director of Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills. “Kybella offers a new, exciting option for medical aesthetics professionals and their patients who are seeking a non-surgical option.”

Kythera’s development product setipiprant, KYTH-105, a novel compound for the prevention of androgentic alopecia or male-pattern hair loss, is also part of the acquisition, according to the release.

Reference: www.allergan.com