Genzyme acquires Caprelsa from AstraZeneca

Genzyme has strengthened its endocrinology portfolio with the acquisition of the rare disease therapy Caprelsa from AstraZeneca.

Indicated for the treatment of symptomatic or progressive medullary thyroid carcinoma in patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic disease, Caprelsa is currently available in 28 countries.

The drug is also in phase III development for differentiated thyroid carcinoma, with the study expected to finish in the second half of 2015. Genzyme expects to complete the acquisition of Caprelsa around this time.

Genzyme will pay AstraZeneca up to $300 million (193.36 million pounds), including an upfront payment of $165 million to acquire the global rights to sell and further develop Caprelsa, and further development and sales milestone payments of up to $135 million.

Dr David Meeker, Genzyme's president and chief executive officer, said: "The addition of Caprelsa represents a strong strategic fit for our rare endocrinology portfolio and underscores Genzyme's commitment to addressing unmet needs in the thyroid community."