Astellas has announced the withdrawal of its application for marketing authorization of Izervay (avacincaptad pegol) in Europe. The decision follows discussions with the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP). Izervay is indicated for the treatment of geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to age-related macular degeneration.
The withdrawal marks a setback for Astellas' efforts to expand the availability of Izervay globally. In the United States, the drug received approval in August 2023 with Fast Track designation, offering a new therapeutic option for patients with GA. The contrasting regulatory outcomes in the US and Europe highlight the differing perspectives on the clinical data and benefit-risk profile of Izervay.
"Astellas is committed to exploring every potential action to bring this important medicine to patients in Europe," the company stated. The company is currently reassessing its strategy for securing European approval, considering alternative approaches and further data analyses to address the CHMP's concerns.
Geographic atrophy is a progressive and irreversible form of vision loss affecting millions worldwide. The current treatment landscape for GA is limited, with few approved therapies available. The withdrawal of Izervay's application leaves an unmet need for European patients seeking effective treatments to slow the progression of this debilitating condition.
