Adolor Corporation (Nasdaq: ADLR) is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the discovery, development and commercialization of novel prescription pain management products. The company announced GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) returned to Adolor the worldwide rights related to Entereg for chronic opioid bowel dysfunction (OBD), as well as rights related to Entereg for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

While GSK will retain the rights to Entereg in regards to postoperative ileus (POI), Adolor will work with GSK to coordinate development and commercialization of Entereg for POI in the United States.

OBD is commonly described as constipation, but also includes other gastrointestinal effects such as abdominal cramping, bloating and gastroesophageal reflux. According to Michael R. Dougherty, president and CEO of Adolor, the company intends on addressing the needs for individuals affected by OBD.

“There is a large, unmet need for treatment options for the many patients who suffer with chronic OBD,” Dougherty stated in the press release. “Adolor maintains a portfolio of development candidates that may potentially serve this patient population, including Entereg, our Combination Product Program, and additional earlier stage compounds. We intend now to explore discussions with potential partners regarding this portfolio, and to submit to the FDA for review a protocol for an additional study of Entereg in OBD under a Special Protocol Assessment.

“We value our relationship with GSK for Entereg in POI a great deal and are pleased with the early progress of our efforts under the E.A.S.E. Program,” Dougherty added. “We will continue to work closely with GSK in implementing this program, and in making this important new product available to bowel resection patients and surgical teams.”

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