Kedrion Biopharma and the Pharmacosmos Group, a global leader in the production of IV iron for medical use, have entered into an exclusive agreement to distribute a novel iron-based therapy in Italy for patients suffering from iron deficiency anemia.
Under the agreement, Kedrion will exclusively distribute Monoferric®, an iron-based preparation for intravenous administration produced by Pharmacosmos.
According to data from the World Health Organization, an estimated 2 billion people are anemic worldwide[1]; more than 1 billion of them live with iron deficiency anemia[2]. Often under-diagnosed or under-treated, this disease is amongst the most widespread nutritional deficiencies worldwide. It is estimated that 5% of the female population in Italy is affected by iron deficiency anemia[3].
Paolo Marcucci, Executive Chairman of Kedrion Biopharma, said, “This agreement will allow us to expand our commitment beyond that of rare diseases, redefining and consolidating our efforts to support a new community of patients affected by a disease that is very common amongst the population on a global scale. We are looking forward to joining forces with Pharmacosmos making the experience and skills gained in recent decades by Kedrion in hospital specialties and hematology available to the medical professionals involved in the treatment of this disease.”
Pharmacosmos Group, headquartered in Holbaek, Denmark, and founded in 1965, is a highly specialised company focused on carbohydrate chemistry and a global leader in the development of innovative treatments for patients suffering from iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. CEO Lars Christensen, MD of Pharmacosmos says, “Pharmacosmos is deeply committed to improving the treatment of patients suffering from iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. We are very pleased to partner with Kedrion to make Monoferric® available to the many patients suffering from iron deficiency anemia in Italy.”
[1] Source: https://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/micronutrients/global_prevalence_anaemia_2011/en/
[2] Source: https://www.thelancet.com/clinical/diseases/iron-deficiency-anaemia
[3] Source: Terri D. Johnson-Wimbley, David Y. Graham (2011) Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2011 May; 4(3): 177–184