Deal adds late-stage ocular antiseptic to pipeline, expanding Tarsus beyond core eye-care focus with up to $490 million in milestones.
Tarsus Pharmaceuticals acquired iRenix Medical for $75 million upfront, gaining IRX-101, a late-stage ocular surface antiseptic targeting the retina market. The deal includes up to $490 million in potential milestones and royalties.
IRX-101 aims to replace povidone-iodine for patients receiving repeated intravitreal injections, reducing pain and irritation. Phase IIb/III data showed statistically significant improvements over povidone-iodine, including less pain and corneal staining.
Tarsus plans a pivotal Phase III COMFORT study in the first half of 2027, with top-line data expected in 2028. The acquisition marks the company’s first strategic entry into the retina market.