AbbVie Enters Global License Deal With Nxera Pharma for Experimental IBD Drug

04:56 AM EST, 11/04/2026 (MT Newswires) -- AbbVie (ABBV) has entered into an exclusive global licensing agreement with Nxera Pharma's UK unit for NXE0033744, an investigational oral EP4 receptor agonist for inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, Nxera Pharma said Wednesday. Under the deal, Nxera will receive $100 million upfront and is eligible for up to $1.37 billion in milestone payments, plus tiered royalties. The upfront payment is expected to be recognized as revenue in Q4 2026. NXE0033744 has completed a Phase 1 study, generating data supporting its gut-selective profile and target engagement, the company added. AbbVie will hold exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialize the drug candidate for IBD, the company said. Nxera said the agreement remains subject to customary antitrust clearances, including under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act.