Sandoz acquires global commercialisation rights to Polpharma’s multiple sclerosis biosimilar
pharmafile | September 3, 2019 | News story | Manufacturing and Production, Sales and Marketing | Polpharma, Sandoz, biosimilar, multiple sclerosis, pharma
Sandoz has revealed that it has sealed a deal with Polpharma Biologics to commercialise the latter’s proposed biosimilar version of natalizumab around the world. The biosimilar product is currently undergoing clinical testing at Phase 3 in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
Under the agreement, Polpharma will handle development, manufacturing and supply responsibilities. Following approval from regulatory agencies, Sandoz will handle marketing and distribution duties across all markets exclusively. Further details of the agreement were not revealed.
Natalizumab was approved over 10 years’ ago in the disease, and a new biosimilar version will make the drug available at a reduced cost – a major concern of MS patients and their families and the most common obstacle to access in 46% of 90 countries examined in a recent report.
“Patient access to advanced medicines is important for all people diagnosed with a chronic disease, but the challenges are very pronounced for MS patients,” said Pierre Bourdage, ad interim Global Head of Biopharmaceuticals, Sandoz. “By nature, biosimilars create competition and cost savings, which are proven to make room in healthcare systems to treat more patients. With this agreement, we hope to build on our MS experience with small molecules and complex generics, and ultimately provide patients with expanded access to a DMT that healthcare systems may otherwise not be able to provide.”
Matt Fellows
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