Boehringer Ingelheim and LEO Pharma have entered into an exclusive global license and transfer agreement to further develop and commercialize SPEVIGO® (spesolimab), a monoclonal antibody treatment targeting the interleukin-36 (IL-36) receptor — a key driver in autoinflammatory skin diseases such as generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP).
SPEVIGO®, an innovative humanized antibody, works by blocking IL-36 receptor activation, a pathway implicated in GPP and potentially other severe dermatological conditions with high unmet need. Under this agreement, LEO Pharma will take on global responsibility for the continued development and commercialization of the therapy, leveraging its long-standing expertise in medical dermatology to improve patient access and raise awareness of GPP.
The addition of SPEVIGO® strengthens LEO Pharma’s strategic dermatology portfolio and aligns with its commitment to providing transformative treatments for chronic and underserved skin conditions.
Shashank Deshpande, Chairman of the Board and Head of Human Pharma at Boehringer Ingelheim, stated:
“SPEVIGO® represents hope for people living with GPP. To realize its full potential, continued focus and dermatology-specific expertise are essential — and LEO Pharma is well equipped to lead the next chapter of its journey.”
LEO Pharma CEO Christophe Bourdon added:
“This partnership is not just strategic — it’s about improving lives. GPP is a serious disease with few treatment options. Building on Boehringer Ingelheim’s groundbreaking work, we aim to bring innovative care to more patients worldwide.”
GPP is a rare, life-threatening skin condition marked by painful, sterile pustules and systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue. Patients may experience episodic or chronic disease with risks of serious complications, including organ failure.
SPEVIGO® is already approved for use in over 40 countries, including the U.S., Japan, China, and across Europe, for treating GPP flares in adults. It is the first approved therapy to specifically target the IL-36 pathway, and its efficacy was demonstrated in a robust, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. The drug has also received approvals for expanded indications in GPP across major markets and is currently being studied for use in other IL-36 mediated skin diseases.
The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Boehringer Ingelheim will receive an upfront payment of EUR 90 million, along with milestone-based payments and tiered royalties tied to future commercial success.