Biogen Inc. recently announced the completion of the separation of its global hemophilia business. As of February 1, 2017, the new company, known as Bioverativ, became an independent global biotechnology company focused on hemophilia and other rare blood disorders.
Biogen was founded in 1978 to develop novel biotechnology-based therapies to treat people with neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. In more recent years, the company has also developed and brought-to-market two recombinant extended half-life therapies to treat patients with hemophilia A and B. In 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved ELOCTATE™ and ALPROLIX™, therapies designed to keep the infused clotting factor circulating in the body longer, stretching the time between infusions.
ELOCTATE™, a recombinant factor VIII Fc fusion protein, was approved for the control and prevention of bleeding episodes, perioperative (surgical) management and routine prophylaxis in adults and children with hemophilia A. ALPROLIX™, a recombinant factor IX Fc fusion protein therapy, was approved for the control and prevention of bleeding episodes, perioperative (surgical) management and routine prophylaxis in adults and children with hemophilia B.
The new company will continue to develop novel treatments for conditions such as sickle cell disease, beta thalassemia and hemophilia. “Bioverativ has a strong legacy of commitment to the hemophilia community and, as a standalone company, we will bring an even greater focus on working together to create meaningful progress,” said John Cox, Chief Executive Officer of Bioverativ. “We understand the significant unmet needs that remain for people with hemophilia and are applying our science in the areas where we believe we can make the most impact.”
Source: Business Wire, February 1, 2017
