Astellas to acquire Biogen’s psoriasis treatment

The companies anticipate closing the transaction as early as mid-April. Astellas will receive rights to the drug in all indications.

Biogen Idec will continue to manufacture the anti-inflammatory biologic and supply it to Astellas, it has been reported that Biogen will receive royalties on sales of the drug on top of the $60 million.

“The acquisition of a well-established product such as Amevive strengthens our North American dermatology franchise and provides Astellas an opportunity to continue offering physicians this effective option for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis,” stated Dr William Fitzsimmons, senior vice president, Business Development at Astellas Pharma US.

Amevive is the first biologic approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.