With the exception of these countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden), Wyeth markets BeneFIX around the world. Under the terms of the agreement, Biovitrum will receive a commission on BeneFIX sales, including an additional incentive if certain sales targets are exceeded, for a period of up to five years, with possible one year extensions thereafter.
BeneFIX uses recombinant DNA technology to replace clotting factor IX to stop or prevent bleeding in people with hemophilia B who do not have enough factor IX of their own. Hemophilia B is a rare, inherited blood clotting disorder. Hemophilia B is characterized by spontaneous hemorrhages or prolonged bleeding, typically into joints and soft tissue.