Astero

Astero Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company that was dedicated to developing innovative topical therapies for pain management. The company's primary focus was the development of AST-001, a proprietary topical formulation of amitriptyline and ketamine intended for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia. By delivering medication directly to the site of pain, Astero sought to provide effective relief while reducing the systemic exposure and side effects associated with oral treatments. In May 2019, the company was acquired by BioDelivery Sciences International (BDSI) for an upfront payment of $20 million, with additional potential milestones. This acquisition allowed BDSI to expand its portfolio of pain treatments into the topical neurology space. Following the acquisition of BDSI by Collegium Pharmaceutical in 2022, Astero's assets became part of the Collegium portfolio.