AstraZeneca selects Biologics as U.S. channel partner for vandetanib

Biologics, Inc., an integrated oncology management company, is pleased to announce it has been selected by AstraZeneca as the exclusive U.S. strategic channel partner for vandetanib.

“We are thrilled to be aligned with AstraZeneca as a launch partner for vandetanib and serving this important patient population.”

Vandetanib was approved on April 6 by the FDA for the treatment of symptomatic or progressive medullary thyroid cancer in patients with unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic disease.

This therapy represents the first medicine approved specifically for this rare form of cancer.

A Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) is required for vandetanib due to the risks of QT prolongation, Torsades de pointes, and sudden death. Only prescribers who are certified through the vandetanib REMS program, a restricted distribution program, will be able to prescribe vandetanib. To learn about the specific REMS requirements and to enroll in the vandetanib REMS Program call 1-800-236-9933 or visit www.vandetanibrems.com.

As the strategic channel partner, Biologics is further extending its commitment to patient care by serving as the single-source pharmacy for vandetanib in the U.S through its oncology pharmacy business unit. Biologics will be providing such services as on-time prescription delivery and 24/7 access to clinical oncology pharmacists. In addition, Biologics is the exclusive provider of access information to help patients overcome financial barriers to therapy. The company will conduct timely and thorough insurance benefits investigations, facilitate completion of the prior authorization process by healthcare providers and provide information about potential financial assistance for eligible patients.

"Over the last 17 years we have worked diligently to build an integrated oncology management company with an unwavering commitment to patient care," said Stuart Frantz, President and Chief Executive Officer of Biologics, Inc. "We are thrilled to be aligned with AstraZeneca as a launch partner for vandetanib and serving this important patient population."

Since 1994, Biologics has provided services to support people with all types of cancer. As newer drug therapies become more targeted at smaller, micro-orphan populations, the care-delivery system necessitates a specialization and expertise in oncology in order to overcome the clinical, financial and emotional challenges of cancer care. To support vandetanib patients and prescribers, Biologics designed an innovative program focused on rapid access to treatment while establishing a more efficient and controlled distribution channel to help meet AstraZeneca's REMS requirements.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), medullary thyroid cancer accounts for about 4% of thyroid cancers. ACS also says thyroid cancer is different from many other adult cancers in that it is commonly diagnosed in younger people; nearly 2 of 3 cases are found in people between the ages of 20 and 55.