Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Expands Biosimilar Portfolio with YUSIMRY®

Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Expands Biosimilar Portfolio with YUSIMRY®

by John Conrad| Jun 28, 2024| NewsBrief

Meitheal Pharmaceuticals, a Chicago-based biopharmaceutical company, has made a significant move in the biosimilars market by acquiring exclusive U.S. commercial rights to YUSIMRY® (adalimumab-aqvh), a biosimilar of the widely-used drug Humira®. This strategic acquisition, announced on June 27, 2024, marks a pivotal moment for Meitheal as it strengthens its position in the growing biosimilars sector.

Key Points:

1. Exclusive Agreement: Meitheal has gained exclusive U.S. rights to YUSIMRY® through an agreement with its parent company, Hong Kong King-Friend Industry Co., Ltd. (HKF).
2. Expanding Portfolio: YUSIMRY® becomes the fifth biosimilar in Meitheal's portfolio and its first on-market biosimilar product.
3. FDA Approval: YUSIMRY® is currently approved by the U.S. FDA for nine indications, matching those of Humira®.
4. Cost-Effective Alternative: As a biosimilar, YUSIMRY® offers a more affordable option for patients compared to Humira®.
5. Future Development: Meitheal plans to continue developing YUSIMRY®, including pediatric presentations and a high-concentration formulation.

The addition of YUSIMRY® to Meitheal's portfolio is a strategic move in the company's mission to provide accessible and affordable healthcare solutions. Adalimumab, the active ingredient in both Humira® and YUSIMRY®, is a critical medication for many Americans living with autoimmune conditions. By offering a cost-effective alternative, Meitheal aims to improve patient access to this important treatment.

This acquisition also demonstrates Meitheal's commitment to growth in the biosimilars market. The company and its parent company have invested significantly in recent years to expand their biologics capabilities, including a $30 million investment in a monoclonal antibody drug substance facility.

As biosimilars continue to gain traction in the U.S. healthcare market, Meitheal is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for these more affordable treatment options. The company's expertise across research, manufacturing, and commercialization puts it in a strong position to successfully bring YUSIMRY® to patients in need.

For patients and healthcare providers, this development means potentially greater access to adalimumab treatment at a lower cost. Meitheal has committed to working closely with the previous rights holder to ensure a seamless transition of existing YUSIMRY® operations, including maintaining comprehensive support for patients and healthcare providers.

As the biosimilars market continues to evolve, developments like this acquisition by Meitheal are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of affordable healthcare options for patients with chronic conditions.

Read the press release

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