Is Astellas planning to sell its dermatology portfolio?

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Astellas may be planning to sell its dermatology portfolio, which is estimated to be worth between US $500 million and $1 billion, according to recent rumours.

The Japanese pharma company's dermatology portfolio is led by eczema treatment Protopic (tacrolimus), which is set to lose its patent protection next year, opening it up to generic competition.

Apparently, Astellas has hired London-based investment banking boutique, DC Advisory, to sell the assets, but it's unclear as to when and how much each business will make from the sale.