Novartis AG's Sandoz International GmbH unit obtained rights to commercialize a proposed biosimilar of multiple sclerosis drug natalizumab being developed by Polpharma Biologics.
Natalizumab, which is sold by Biogen Inc. as Tysabri, is being developed in a phase 3 clinical trial to treat patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
Financial terms of the deal were not revealed.
Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is characterized by patients experiencing worsening of symptoms in between periods when symptoms decline or disappear.
Under the deal, Holzkirchen, Germany-based Sandoz will commercialize and distribute the therapy in all markets upon approval via an exclusive global license. Polpharma, a Gdańsk, Poland-based drugmaker, will be responsible for the development, manufacture and supply of natalizumab.
Sandoz has a global portfolio of eight marketed biosimilars, with over 10 more in development.

