Sandoz receives FDA approval for Eyelea biosimilar
Sandoz has received the Food and Drug Administration’s blessing for Enzeevu (aflibercept-abzv) 2 mg vial kit and pre-filled syringe for intravitreal injection. Enzeevu, which is a biosimilar to Regeneron’s Eyelea, is indicated to improve and maintain visual acuity in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
In addition, the FDA provisionally determined Enzeevu would be interchangeable with the reference medicine as it is currently subject to an unexpired exclusivity for the first interchangeable biosimilar products.
[Read more: Sandoz obtains FDA nod for Stelara biosimilar]
“nAMD, or wet AMD, continues to be a leading cause of vision impairment in patients over 50 years in North America. This condition affects millions of people, leading to significant challenges in their daily lives due to the progressive loss of central vision. The U.S. approval of Enzeevu is a key milestone in Sandoz efforts to significantly improve the lives of patients impacted by this incurable disease,” said Claire D’AbreuHayling, chief scientific officer at Sandoz.
Enzeevu is a key biosimilar value driver for the company and this approval is a major step in advancing the Sandoz growth strategy by further extending its leading US ophthalmology portfolio. Launch timing will be dependent on several factors, including the progress and outcome of pending or potential future related litigations or any potential settlements.
nAMD, also known as wet AMD, is a subtype of age-related macular degeneration, which is a leading cause of vision impairment in patients over 50 years in North America.
[Read more: Prioritizing Lower-Priced Biosimilar Medications]
Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness, said: “As sight disappears, so may a person’s connection to the world. We welcome all treatment options that help maintain vision and meet the unique needs of the individual so those living with wet AMD can potentially maintain their independence longer. At this time, there is no cure for this disease and long-term treatment can be costly. Having more FDA approved options, including biosimilars, can help make healthcare more person-centered and affordable.”