Pfizer, YaoPharma ink pact for development of weight management drug

“We look forward to contributing our expertise and resources to continue the development of this investigational GLP-1 small molecule which complements and strengthens our growing portfolio of novel candidates for treating obesity and its adjacent diseases,” said Chris Boshoff, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer and President, Research & Development, Pfizer. “Cardiometabolic research is a strategic priority for Pfizer that has the potential to be a key driver of growth for our business.”

Under the terms of the agreement, YaoPharma will complete an ongoing YP05002 Phase 1 clinical trial and grants Pfizer an exclusive license to further develop, manufacture and commercialize YP05002 worldwide.

YaoPharma will receive an upfront payment of $150 million and is eligible to receive milestone payments associated with certain development, regulatory and commercial milestones up to $1.935 billion, as well as tiered royalties on sales, if approved.

Pfizer plans to conduct combination studies of YP05002 with its glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR) antagonist PF-07976016 currently in Phase 2 development and with other small molecules in its pipeline.