Lindis Biotech GmbH has entered into a licensing agreement with Pharmanovia to commercialize Catumaxomab, a bifunctional antibody therapy. This collaboration follows a positive review from the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) in October 2024, paving the way for the drug's potential re-entry into the market. Subject to final approval, Catumaxomab is set to become the first drug sanctioned for the treatment of malignant ascites, a debilitating condition commonly linked to advanced cancers, including ovarian and pancreatic cancer. Pharmanovia will spearhead the marketing and distribution efforts.
Targeting EpCAM-Positive Carcinomas
Catumaxomab is designed to target EpCAM-positive carcinomas, offering a novel approach to cancer therapy. The drug aims to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from malignant ascites by reducing their dependence on repeated paracentesis procedures, which are often required to drain excess fluid from the abdominal cavity. Furthermore, there is potential for Catumaxomab to extend patient lifespan. Prior to its market withdrawal in 2014 due to commercial reasons, research indicated the drug's efficacy in over 2000 patients.
Executives Optimistic About Patient Impact
Executives from both Lindis Biotech and Pharmanovia have expressed considerable optimism regarding the potential impact of Catumaxomab on patients suffering from malignant ascites. They emphasized the importance of bringing this therapy back to the market to address a significant unmet medical need and alleviate the burden of this condition on patients and healthcare systems. The reintroduction of Catumaxomab represents a significant step forward in the treatment of malignant ascites and offers hope for improved outcomes for patients with advanced cancers.
