Kedrion Biopharma Inc. has received FDA approval for its manufacturing facility in Bolognana, Italy, to produce RYPLAZIM® (human plasminogen), the only FDA-approved treatment for patients with plasminogen deficiency type 1 (PLGD-1). This approval marks a significant step in expanding access to this critical therapy for a rare and challenging chronic disease.
Addressing a Critical Unmet Need in PLGD-1
PLGD-1 is characterized by the development of abnormal, fibrin-rich lesions on mucosal surfaces throughout the body. These lesions commonly manifest in the eye as ligneous conjunctivitis but can also appear in the ears, mouth, central nervous system, skin, and respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts. Untreated, these lesions can lead to severe complications, including vision and hearing loss, airway obstruction, infertility, and hydrocephalus.
Increased Production Capacity for RYPLAZIM®
The FDA's approval of the Bolognana facility will significantly increase RYPLAZIM® production capacity, ensuring a more reliable supply of the drug for PLGD-1 patients in the United States and worldwide. This expansion is particularly crucial given the increased awareness and diagnosis of PLGD-1, which has led to a growing demand for the treatment.
Bob Rossilli, CCO, Global Business and US General Manager stated, "This expanded capacity for RYPLAZIM® means we can provide treatment for more patients with PLGD-1... Offering a product like RYPLAZIM® to patients in need is truly a privilege."
RYPLAZIM®: A Targeted Therapy for PLGD-1
RYPLAZIM® represents a major advancement in the treatment of PLGD-1, addressing the underlying cause of the disease. As the first and only FDA-approved therapy specifically for PLGD-1, RYPLAZIM® offers the potential for patients to live near-normal lives by preventing the formation of fibrin-rich lesions.
Rebecca Bialas MD, Co-founder and Chair of The Plasminogen Deficiency Foundation, noted, "With increased awareness of PLGD-1, the expanded capacity of RYPLAZIM® ensures we are better equipped to meet the growing demand... This is an exciting time for the PLGD-1 community, marking a significant event in our collective journey towards better health."
Kedrion Biopharma is committed to addressing unmet medical needs in rare diseases. This approval is the first of several steps to increase RYPLAZIM®'s capacity, reflecting the company's dedication to scientific excellence and patient-focused innovation.
