Zydus Lifesciences Subsidiary Sentynl Secures Zokinvy®

Zydus Lifesciences Limited announced a positive development on May 04, 2024. Its wholly-owned U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company, Sentynl Therapeutics, Inc. (Sentynl), successfully acquired Eiger BioPharmaceuticals, Inc.’s Zokinvy® (lonafarnib) program.

Significance of Zokinvy®

Zokinvy® represents a significant advancement in treating Progeria, Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS), and Processing-Deficient Progeroid Laminopathies (PDPL). These ultra-rare and fatal genetic diseases cause premature ageing in young patients, leading to rapid mortality. Notably, Zokinvy® is the first and only FDA-approved treatment that targets the underlying cause and symptoms of these conditions in children as young as one year old.

Global Reach and Recognition

Following its initial U.S. approval in 2020, Zokinvy® has garnered endorsements from regulatory bodies worldwide. The treatment received approval in the European Union and Great Britain in 2022, followed by Japan in January 2024. This expansive global reach ensures wider access to this critical treatment for patients battling these devastating diseases.

Looking Forward

Sentynl’s acquisition of Zokinvy® signifies Zydus Lifesciences’ commitment to advancing treatments for rare and life-threatening illnesses. By securing this innovative therapy, Sentynl gains the potential to improve the lives of children suffering from Progeria, HGPS, and PDPL.

“This acquisition marks an important milestone in growing our portfolio of medicines for rare and orphan diseases, which can have devastating consequences if left untreated. We are focused on supporting patients to live healthier and more fulfilled lives. The acquisition of Zokinvy® furthers this mission, as it has demonstrated a meaningful impact on young patients and their families,” said Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences Ltd.

“It is an honour to add Zokinvy® to our portfolio of products that have a tangible impact on the lives of rare disease patients, whose needs are too often unmet or overlooked. We are firmly committed to providing best-in-class global access to Zokinvy® and are eager to serve the patients and their families affected by Progeria. We are grateful to Eiger and The Progeria Research Foundation for their dedicated effort to develop and secure the availability of this life-changing product,” said Matt Heck, President & Chief Executive Officer of Sentynl.

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