Mundipharma Acquires Merck’s Ophthalmology Portfolio

Mundipharma will acquire Merck’s ophthalmology portfolio in certain markets.

The portfolio consists of products to treat increased ocular pressure caused by open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. As a result, Mundipharma will gain rights to Cosopt (dorzolamide hydrochloride–timolol maleate), Cosopt Preservative-Free, Saflutan (tafluprost), Timoptic (timolol maleate), Timoptic XE, Timoptic Preservative-Free, Trusopt (dorzolamide hydrochloride) and Trusopt Preservative-Free.

Markets covered by the deal are Australia, Canada, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa and New Zealand.

In a statement, Muna Bhanji, president of hospital and specialty care at MSD — Merck’s name outside the U.S. and Canada — says the transaction wraps up the divestiture of the company’s ophthalmology business and will help the drugmaker focus on key markets and therapeutic areas.