Adamas Pharmaceuticals

Adamas Pharmaceuticals, Inc. was a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing therapies for chronic neurologic disorders. Founded in 2000 by Greg Went, Ph.D., under the name NeuroMolecular, Inc., the company aimed to improve the lives of patients affected by central nervous system (CNS) conditions. The company's strategy revolved around enhancing the pharmacokinetic profiles of already approved drugs to create new therapeutic options. A significant milestone for Adamas was the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of its lead product, GOCOVRI® (amantadine) extended-release capsules, on August 24, 2017. This marked the first and only medication specifically approved for the treatment of dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease patients receiving levodopa-based therapy.

The company's primary market was the central nervous system therapeutic area, specifically targeting patients with Parkinson's disease. Its business model centered on the development and commercialization of its proprietary drugs. Revenue was generated from the sales of its approved products. In a strategic move to expand its portfolio, Adamas acquired OSMOLEX ER® (amantadine) extended-release tablets from Osmotica Pharmaceuticals in January 2021. OSMOLEX ER is also approved for treating Parkinson's disease and drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions. This acquisition complemented its existing product line, providing physicians with multiple amantadine-based treatment options.

GOCOVRI, the company's cornerstone product, is an extended-release capsule taken once daily at bedtime. Its design ensures that drug levels are highest during the day, when symptoms like involuntary movements (dyskinesia) and "off" periods—when medication isn't working optimally—are most problematic. In February 2021, the FDA expanded GOCOVRI's approval to include use as an adjunctive treatment for "off" episodes in Parkinson's patients, making it the only drug approved to treat both motor complications. Following a period of growth and key product approvals, Adamas Pharmaceuticals was acquired by Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The definitive agreement was announced in October 2021 and the acquisition was completed in November 2021 for approximately $400 million in cash, plus potential future payments based on sales milestones. This acquisition allowed Supernus to strengthen its own CNS portfolio and diversify its revenue streams.

Keywords: Adamas Pharmaceuticals, Supernus Pharmaceuticals, GOCOVRI, OSMOLEX ER, amantadine, Parkinson's disease, central nervous system, CNS disorders, levodopa-induced dyskinesia, motor complications, off episodes, extended-release capsules, drug development, pharmaceutical acquisition, neurologic disorders, specialty pharmaceutical, Greg Went, FDA approval, neurodegenerative disease, movement disorders