Sobi assumes direct responsibility for Orfadin® (nitisinone) in US and Canada and introduces Orfadin4U(TM)
Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (publ) (Sobi) today assumed direct responsibility for the distribution of its proprietary product Orfadin in the United States and Canada. Orfadin is the only FDA approved therapy for use as an adjunct to dietary restriction of tyrosine and phenylalanine for the treatment of hereditary tyrosinaemia type 1 (HT-1). Sobi has been responsible for the worldwide development and commercialisation of Orfadin since 1993 and currently distributes the product in over 50 countries around the globe. "We look forward to bringing a global perspective to partnering with genetic and metabolic physicians in serving the tyrosinaemia community in North America," said Geoffrey McDonough, CEO and President, Sobi. As part of the relaunch of Orfadin under Sobi, the company is introducing Orfadin4U - a comprehensive support program offering pharmacy services, adherence support, reimbursement and financial expertise, and experienced and knowledgeable staff to increase support for patients, caregivers and healthcare providers. Orfadin4U will become the exclusive pharmacy services provider for the distribution of Orfadin in the US. "For patients with hereditary tyrosinaemia type 1, early diagnosis and adherence are critical in allowing for optimal outcomes. A comprehensive patient support program addressing the many unmet needs of these patients will clearly help them in effectively managing this serious but treatable disease", says Dr Harvey Levy, Professor of Paediatrics, Harvard Medical School. Sobi established its US affiliate in 2012 to increase its focus on the North American market and to be able to better address the needs of patients and healthcare providers in the region. "Our goal with Orfadin4U is to increase awareness and provide comprehensive support and care to these patients and their families throughout their lives", says Rami Levin, Vice President North America, Sobi. --- About Orfadin Orfadin is a pharmaceutical for Hereditary Tyrosinaemia type 1 (HT-1), a rare genetic disorder that causes liver failure, kidney dysfunction and neurological problems. Left untreated, patients have a very limited life expectancy. About Sobi Sobi is an international specialty healthcare company dedicated to rare diseases. Our mission is to develop and deliver innovative therapies and services to improve the lives of patients. The product portfolio is primarily focused on Inflammation and Genetic diseases, with three late stage biological development projects within Haemophilia and Neonatology. We also market a portfolio of specialty and rare disease products for partner companies. Sobi is a pioneer in biotechnology with world-class capabilities in protein biochemistry and biologics manufacturing. In 2013, Sobi had total revenues of SEK 2.2 billion (€253 M) and about 550 employees. The share (STO: SOBI) is listed on NASDAQ OMX Stockholm. More information is available at www.sobi.com. For more information please contact Media relations Oskar Bosson, Head of Communications T: +46 70 410 71 80 oskar.bosson@sobi.com Investor relations Jörgen Winroth, Vice President, Head of Investor Relations T: +1 347-224-0819, +46 8 697 2135 jorgen.winroth@sobi.com