Pacira BioSciences, Inc. announced it has entered into an agreement with LG Chem designed to expand access to opioid-sparing postsurgical pain control for patients in select Asian-Pacific markets. Through this partnership, LG Chem has the exclusive rights to commercialize EXPAREL®? (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension), Pacira's long-acting, local analgesic for postsurgical pain management in the region.

Under the terms of the agreement, Pacira will receive an undisclosed upfront payment, a transfer price, and tiered royalties on future commercial sales by LG Chem in licensed territories. Pacira will manufacture EXPAREL. LG Chem will be responsible for securing regulatory approvals in the licensed territories and plans to file for marketing authorizations in South Korea and Thailand within the next six months.