Takeda receives EU accelerated assessment status for new myeloma drug

Takeda has announced that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use of the European Medicines Agency has granted an accelerated assessment to ixazomib, its new multiple myeloma drug.

The investigational oral proteasome inhibitor is intended for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Accelerated assessment status is given to innovative medicines deemed to be of major public health interest.

Results from the first pre-specified interim analysis of the pivotal phase III trial TOURMALINE-MM1 have shown the superiority of ixazomib plus lenalidomide and dexamethasone over placebo in adult patients with multiple myeloma.

Dr Andrew Plump, Takeda's chief medical and scientific officer, said: "We are pleased that the CHMP has granted accelerated assessment for ixazomib, and believe that this designation underscores the urgent need for therapeutic innovation in multiple myeloma treatments."

Last month, the company's drug Entyvio was recommended by the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence as a treatment for severe Crohn's disease.