Biotechnology major Biocon Ltd on Friday (December 22) said its subsidiary Biocon Biologics Ltd has signed a distribution agreement with Sandoz, granting the company the exclusive rights to promote, sell, and distribute "adalimumab BS for subcutaneous injection (FKB)" in Japan.
Based on this agreement, Viatris has completed the marketing and promotion of the product as of December 15, 2023, but will continue to provide transition support till Sandoz gradually assumes responsibilities for the product starting February 15, 2024.
Biocon Biologics has acquired the global biosimilars portfolio of Viatris, including adalimumab. Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics Co Ltd, the developer of the drug, has concluded an exclusive global marketing licence agreement with Biocon Biologics Ltd affiliate.
Adalimumab BS for subcutaneous injection (FKB) is a biosimilar of Humira — generic name: adalimumab (genetical recombination) — and is indicated for immune system-related diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis vulgaris, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.
Sandoz is committed to further strengthening its product pipeline to drive sustainable business growth. The transfer of the distribution rights of this product is part of this strategy, and its addition to the product portfolio will strengthen Sandoz's immunology and biosimilar portfolio.
Biocon Biologics recently announced the successful completion of its integration of the acquired Viatris’ biosimilars business in 120 countries ahead of schedule, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey as a fully integrated, global biosimilars enterprise.
At a global level, Biocon Biologics has a robust pipeline of 20 assets for diabetology, oncology, immunology, and ophthalmology. Serving over 5.7 million patients annually, the company is committed to providing access to high-quality therapies and solutions to patients, healthcare systems, and governments across the globe.
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Shares of Biocon Ltd ended at ₹246.20, up by ₹0.55, or 0.22%, on the BSE.
