Affymax Inc. (AFFY) and Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (TKPYY)
said they will end their anemia drug Omontys partnership in
September and withdraw an application with the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration.
The companies had recalled the drug, which was used in kidney
dialysis patients, in February 2013 following reports of serious
hypersensitivity reaction including anaphylaxis, a life-threatening
allergic reaction.
A total of 98 "adverse events" tied to the drug were reported to
the FDA, including 12 deaths, by Feb. 22, 2013, the day before the
recall.
The cause of the deaths wasn't specified.
Takeda said at the time there were five deaths that the
companies considered in deciding to recall the Omontys lots.
An internal investigation by Takeda found no quality or
manufacturing issues but failed to identify the cause of the
reactions, the companies said in a statement.
The Osaka, Japan-based Takeda said the termination won't affect
its outlook for the fiscal year.
Affymax, of Cupertino, Calif., said its board of directors is
reviewing its strategic options.
In March, Affymax said it would cut its workforce by 75% and was
considering selling itself.
Write to Maria Armental at maria.armental@wsj.com
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