Mundipharma to launch Truxima, the first rituximab biosimilar in seven European markets

Mundipharma and its network of independent associated companies will launch Truxima (rituximab) in the UK, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Republic of Ireland and Luxembourg, following authorisation by the EMA.

Truxima is the first biosimilar monoclonal antibody authorised by the European Commission (EC) for the treatment of cancers, i including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.

The marketing authorisation of Truxima was granted by the EMA on the basis of a rigorous comparability exercise that included preclinical and clinical testing. As a result, it has been demonstrated via quality, nonclinical and clinical data that all major physicochemical characteristics and biological activities of Truxima were comparable to those of the reference product. Like the reference product, Truxima is therefore authorised for the treatment of diffuse large B cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, rheumatoid arthritis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis.

In 2015, the reference product (Mabthera) was the world’s top selling cancer drug, costing healthcare systems over US$7.1billion worldwide. As Truxima is intended to cost less than the reference product, it is hoped that cost savings from using a biosimilar rituximab will enable access for patients in need of new innovative cancer therapies.

Truxima is the second biosimilar monoclonal antibody to be marketed and distributed by the Mundipharma network in Europe, having launched infliximab, the first biosimilar monoclonal antibody, in 2015.

“Mundipharma is constantly seeking opportunities to develop and commercialise sustainable, responsible medicines for a complex and cost conscious world,” said Antony Mattessich, Managing Director, Mundipharma International Limited. “With our global reach, European expertise and proven track record, we are an attractive partner for any companies looking to commercialise biosimilars in Europe and are looking forward to further expand our portfolio in this complex and rapidly growing area.”