FDA provides Orphan-Drug designation for Keryx' KRX-0401 to treat multiple myeloma

Keryx Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. today announced that KRX-0401 (perifosine) has received Orphan-Drug designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of multiple myeloma. In August, the Company announced that it had reached an agreement with the FDA regarding a Special Protocol Assessment (SPA) on the design of a Phase 3 trial in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma and that the study is expected to start by year-end.

Ron Bentsur, Chief Executive Officer of Keryx, commented, "The Orphan-Drug designation for perifosine in multiple myeloma is a very important milestone for Keryx, as the market exclusivity protection provided by this designation significantly enhances the commercial opportunity of perifosine in this indication." Mr. Bentsur continued, "Following our exciting announcement last month that we had reached an agreement with the FDA on an SPA for a Phase 3 trial for perifosine in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, it is encouraging to further add to the value of the perifosine program with this Orphan-Drug designation. We look forward to commencing the Phase 3 study by year-end."