Bora Pharmaceuticals Acquires Pyros Pharmaceuticals, Expanding Rare Disease Portfolio

Key Insights

• Bora Pharmaceuticals has acquired Pyros Pharmaceuticals, a U.S.-based company focused on developing treatments for rare diseases, including infantile spasms.
• Pyros recently launched Vigafyde (vigabatrin) oral solution, the first premixed, ready-to-use vigabatrin formulation approved by the FDA for infantile spasms.
• The acquisition strengthens Bora's portfolio in the central nervous system (CNS) space, particularly in pediatric treatments, following previous acquisitions of Upsher-Smith and TWi Pharmaceuticals.

Taiwan-based Bora Pharmaceuticals has announced the acquisition of Pyros Pharmaceuticals, a U.S. specialty pharmaceutical company focused on rare disease treatments. The deal, approved by Bora's Board of Directors, expands Bora's portfolio and capabilities in the rare disease space, particularly in pediatric central nervous system (CNS) disorders.

Vigafyde: A Novel Treatment for Infantile Spasms

Pyros Pharmaceuticals recently launched Vigafyde (vigabatrin) oral solution, a significant advancement in the treatment of infantile spasms (IS). Vigafyde received FDA approval in June and was commercialized in September. Infantile spasms, a rare and severe form of epilepsy, are characterized by sudden muscle stiffening and pose significant challenges for affected children and their families. Vigafyde is indicated for children aged one month to two years.

Vigafyde stands out as the first and only premixed, ready-to-use vigabatrin oral solution. This formulation simplifies the dosing process, enhancing the likelihood of accurate administration and potentially improving treatment adherence. It is also the first new product approved for infantile spasms in 15 years.

Strategic Rationale Behind the Acquisition

Bora's acquisition of Pyros Pharmaceuticals follows its previous purchases of Upsher-Smith Laboratories and TWi Pharmaceuticals, indicating a strategic focus on expanding its presence in the pharmaceutical market. According to Bora Group chairman and CEO Bobby Sheng, Pyros' innovative R&D and deep understanding of unmet market needs, combined with Upsher-Smith's reputation in the pediatric CNS space, will create a powerful alliance. The combined team is committed to educating healthcare providers on the value of Vigafyde and its unique benefits for caregivers and patients.

Pyros co-founder and CEO Michael Smith expressed enthusiasm about the agreement, highlighting Bora's shared commitment to supporting families navigating the challenges of rare diseases and elevating the standard of care for underserved patient communities.

Financial and Legal Advisors

Stifel served as the exclusive financial advisor and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher as the legal advisor to Bora on this transaction. Piper Sandler served as the exclusive financial advisor and Cooley as the legal advisor to Pyros.