Eusa Pharma completes $115m acquisition of Sylvant for iMCD treatment

Eusa Pharma has successfully acquired the global rights to Sylvant (siltuximab), a drug used in the treatment of idiopathic multicentric Castleman’s disease (iMCD), from Janssen Sciences Ireland in an all-cash deal valued at $115 million. The agreement, which was initially signed in July 2018, marks a significant step for Eusa Pharma as it expands its global presence in oncology and rare disease treatment.

Global footprint expansion with Sylvant acquisition

Sylvant, a monoclonal antibody, is approved in over 40 countries, including the United States and European Union, for the treatment of iMCD, a rare and life-threatening condition that causes the abnormal growth of immune cells. This disease, classified under the Castleman disease family, shares many symptoms with lymphoma, making it particularly difficult to diagnose and treat.

The drug works by targeting and blocking interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine that is present in elevated levels in iMCD patients, thereby alleviating the symptoms of the disease. Eusa Pharma plans to capitalize on its acquisition by leveraging its commercial platform to expand the drug’s availability in new markets globally.

Relaunch and market expansion plans

The company aims to relaunch Sylvant in the United States this month, as well as in European markets through its established infrastructure. Eusa Pharma also plans to continue its expansion into new territories, utilizing its strengthened U.S. commercial team to boost sales and accessibility.

Lee Morley, CEO of Eusa Pharma, stated that Sylvant is a perfect addition to the company’s portfolio, aligning with its focus on oncology and rare diseases. He emphasized that as the only approved treatment for iMCD, Sylvant provides Eusa Pharma with an exciting growth opportunity. Morley outlined the company’s vision to not only deliver the drug to more patients worldwide but also to explore new clinical indications where there is a high unmet medical need.

Future development and patient access

Eusa Pharma is committed to ensuring that Sylvant reaches as many patients as possible, as part of its broader strategy to expand its impact in oncology and rare diseases. The company is also excited about the potential to develop new clinical applications for Sylvant, aiming to address other diseases with high unmet needs.

By acquiring Sylvant, Eusa Pharma is positioning itself to take a leading role in treating iMCD, with plans for further market penetration and clinical exploration on the horizon.