"Amitiza represents a major breakthrough in improving the quality of life for CIC patients, and we are excited to be able to make the product available for Japanese patients suffering from this condition," said Gary M. Winer, President, Abbott Japan, which holds commercialization rights to lubiprostone in Japan.

In February 2009, Sucampo entered into a license, commercialization and supply agreement for lubiprostone with Abbott Japan Co. Ltd. under which Abbott received exclusive rights to commercialize lubiprostone in Japan for the treatment of CIC. Sucampo led the development program and is leading the regulatory activity of lubiprostone in Japan. This regulatory submission triggers a $5,000,000.00 milestone payment from Abbott Japan to Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The submission also triggers a $1,250,000 milestone payment from Sucampo Pharmaceuticals Inc. to Sucampo AG.

Source: Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Inc.