Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. (OAPI) announced on Monday that it will integrate California-based Avanir Pharmaceuticals into its business as of 1 January 12023.

OAPI said that the move brings together the knowledge, capabilities and best practices of both companies to further advance solutions to treat central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Avanir and OAPI are both subsidiaries of OAI, a holding company established in the US in 1989. OAI is wholly owned by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a Japan-based global healthcare company.

'I'm extremely proud to have led this extraordinary team of dedicated employees over the past five years,' said Wa'el Hashad, president and chief executive officer, Avanir Pharmaceuticals. 'Avanir's spirit of innovation and excellence will live on at Otsuka and ensure the continued innovation that will bring hope to patients and families.'

'Avanir and Otsuka have always shared a deep commitment to advancing solutions that improve the lives of patients and their caregivers. We welcome every new employee to the Otsuka family and know each will continue to make an impact on the communities we serve,' said Tarek Rabah, president and CEO, Otsuka North America Pharmaceutical Business (OAPI). 'This integration will bring greater opportunities to develop treatments for those impacted by CNS disorders.'

Founded in 1988 and formerly known as Lidak Pharmaceuticals, the company became Avanir Pharmaceuticals in 1998 and launched its flagship product, Nuedexta (dextromethorphan hydrobromide and quinidine sulfate). Acquired by Otsuka in 2015, Avanir says that it has been at the forefront of developing and delivering ground-breaking pharmaceutical treatments for people with CNS conditions.