Singapore: Sweden-based Medivir has discontinued the development of its hepatitis B compound MIV-210 based on a joint decision with Korea-based Daewoong Pharmaceutical.

Under the terms of this collaboration agreement, Daewoong was responsible for the R&D work of MIV-210. Although the compound demonstrated competitive antiviral activity, however, like other drugs of its class, did not completely eradicate HBV.

The commercial environment for HBV drugs, with the current standard of care approaching generic status, requires a robust cure profile. To achieve this cure profile would require combination with other drugs with different and new mechanisms.

"In light of the characteristics MIV-210 could offer for the treatment of hepatitis B, we have together with our partner Daewoong decided to abandon the development activities with MIV-210", said Mr Maris Hartmanis, CEO, Medivir.