Sandoz, a key player in generic and biosimilar medicines, on Thursday announced the launch of Pyzchiva (ustekinumab) across Europe. According to the company’s statement, Pyzchiva, developed and registered by Samsung Bioepis, is the first ustekinumab biosimilar to launch in Europe with all reference medicine strengths, including the 130mg vial initiation dose for Crohn’s disease.
The launch strengthens our well-established immunology portfolio in Europe and leverages our existing footprint, with five biosimilars now marketed in this therapeutic area. Pyzchiva is a key biosimilar driver, adding value and contributing to the company’s mid-term growth strategy, the company claimed.
“Timely and expanded access to safe, effective and affordable medicines can improve quality of life for millions of people living with chronic inflammatory diseases. Our goal is to make potentially life-changing medicines accessible to patients across Europe. Pyzchiva is one of the first ustekinumab biosimilars in Europe, which marks a significant milestone on that road,” Rebecca Guntern, President Europe, Sandoz, said in a statement.
Pyzchiva is approved for treatment of adults with plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease and pediatric plaque psoriasis for patients six years and older weighing over 60 kg.
Europe has the highest prevalence of psoriasis worldwide, affecting an estimated 6.4 million people and significantly impacting patients’ quality of life. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis, affecting 85% to 90% of patients with psoriasis.
Sandoz entered into a development and commercialization agreement for biosimilar ustekinumab with Samsung Bioepis in September 2023. Under the terms of the agreement, Sandoz has the right to commercialize Pyzchiva in the US, Canada, the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the UK. Samsung Bioepis remains responsible for development, registration, intellectual property, manufacturing, and supply.
