Aeterna Zentaris Inc. announced that Novo Nordisk Healthcare AG has exercised its right to terminate the amended development and commercialization license agreement previously entered into between Aeterna's wholly-owned subsidiary and Novo for Macrilen™ (macimorelin), the first and only U.S. FDA and European Commission approved oral test indicated for the diagnosis of adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD). Following Novo's 270-day notice period, Aeterna will regain full U.S. and Canadian rights to the product. Under the terms of the Commercial License, Novo Nordisk will return the regulatory approvals, the intellectual property and provide certain other assistance in order to aid in an orderly transition of Macrilen™ (macimorelin) rights to the Company.

Until the end of that 270-day period, Commercial License requires Novo Nordisk to continue selling and promoting Macrilen™ (macimorelin) in the U.S., and Novo Nordisk's financial support of the pivotal safety and efficacy DETECT-trial remains unchanged until the end of that notice period. Macimorelin has been marketed in the U.S. by Novo Nordisk under the trade name Macrilen™. Under the Commercial License, Novo Nordisk was granted an exclusive license for the development, manufacturing, registration and commercialization of Macrilen™ (macimorelin) in the U.S. and Canada.

In light of Novo Nordisk's decision, Aeterna plans to engage in robust business development efforts to identify and secure a new development and commercialization partner.