Astellas to buy Amevive from Biogen Idec

New York, April 3 - Astellas Pharma US, Inc. will acquire rights to Amevive (alefacept) from Biogen Idec Inc., the two companies announced.

Amevive is an anti-inflammatory compound used in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

The agreement covers worldwide rights for all indications. Biogen Idec will continue to manufacture the compound and supply it to Astellas.

Closing is expected in mid-April.

"The acquisition of a well-established product such as Amevive strengthens our North American dermatology franchise and provides Astellas an opportunity to continue offering physicians this effective option for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis," said William Fitzsimmons, senior vice president, business development at Astellas Pharma US, in a news release.

Astellas Pharma US is a Deerfield, Ill., subsidiary of Tokyo-based pharmaceutical company Astellas Pharma Inc. Biogen Idec is a Cambridge, Mass., pharmaceutical company.

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