Biopharmaceutical company Vivus has entered into a license and commercialization agreement with Sanofi to commercialize avanafil on an exclusive basis in Africa, the Middle East, Turkey and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) including Russia. Sanofi will be responsible for obtaining regulatory approval in its territories. Sanofi intends to market avanafil under the trade name Spedra or Stendra.

Vivus is eligible to receive up to $61 million in upfront payments and milestones. Vivus also will receive escalating royalties based on net sales.

In July, Vivus announced an exclusive license with the Menarini Group to commercialize avanafil in Europe, Australia and New Zealand. In October, Vivus announced an exclusive license with Auxilium Pharmaceuticals to commercialize avanafil in the U.S. and Canada. Avanafil now is expected to be commercialized in over 100 countries worldwide.