Nutriband and Kindeva: A Strategic Partnership to Combat Opioid Abuse

Nutriband Inc. (NASDAQ:NTRB) (NASDAQ:NTRBW) and Kindeva Drug Delivery have formalized an exclusive product development partnership and long-term commitment, with shared development costs in exchange for milestone payments. This strategic alliance aims to bring Aversa™ Fentanyl, an abuse-deterrent fentanyl patch, to market, addressing the growing concern of opioid abuse and misuse.

The partnership combines Nutriband's proprietary AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent transdermal technology with Kindeva's FDA-approved transdermal fentanyl patch system. Aversa Fentanyl has the potential to become the world's first opioid patch with abuse deterrent properties, with projected peak annual US sales ranging from $80 million to $200 million.

Nutriband's AVERSA™ technology incorporates aversive agents into transdermal patches to prevent the abuse, diversion, misuse, and accidental exposure of drugs with abuse potential. The technology is protected by a broad international intellectual property portfolio with patents issued in 46 countries, including the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea, Russia, China, Canada, Mexico, and Australia.

Kindeva, a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), brings extensive expertise in transdermal product development and manufacturing to the partnership. The company's rich legacy of over 50 years in pharmaceutical innovation, along with its team of pioneers in the transdermal industry, ensures a robust foundation for the successful development and commercialization of Aversa Fentanyl.

The shared development cost model between Nutriband and Kindeva balances risk and reward for both parties, allowing Nutriband to leverage Kindeva's extensive development and manufacturing expertise while preserving significant economic interest in the product's success. This arrangement fosters a long-term commitment between the two companies, as they work together to bring Aversa™ Fentanyl to market.

The partnership's focus on abuse-deterrent technologies positions Nutriband and Kindeva well within the competitive landscape of transdermal drug delivery. The first-to-market advantage, strategic partnership, robust IP portfolio, and established manufacturing capabilities create a strong foundation for success in this critical market segment.

In conclusion, the partnership between Nutriband and Kindeva for Aversa Fentanyl positions both companies competitively in the transdermal drug delivery and abuse-deterrent technologies landscape. By combining Nutriband's expertise in abuse-deterrent technology and Kindeva's extensive experience in transdermal patches, the partnership addresses a critical public health concern and offers a promising solution to the growing problem of opioid abuse and misuse.