FDA approves pair of IBS therapies

FDA approved Viberzi eluxadoline ( JNJ-270189066) from Actavis plc (NYSE:ACT) and Xifaxan rifaximin from Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc. (TSX:VRX; NYSE:VRX) to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults.

Actavis obtained Viberzi, a locally acting mu opioid receptor agonist and delta opioid receptor antagonist, via its 2014 acquisition of Forest Laboratories Inc. The compound was under Priority Review and had Fast Track designation. Actavis said it expects to launch in 1Q16 after the drug receives final scheduling designation from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. ...