Affymax, Takeda End Anemia Drug Partnership

Affymax Inc. (AFFY) and Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (TKPYY) said they will end their anemia drug Omontys partnership in September and withdraw an application with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The companies had recalled the drug, which was used in kidney dialysis patients, in February 2013 following reports of serious hypersensitivity reaction including anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.

A total of 98 "adverse events" tied to the drug were reported to the FDA, including 12 deaths, by Feb. 22, 2013, the day before the recall.

The cause of the deaths wasn't specified.

Takeda said at the time there were five deaths that the companies considered in deciding to recall the Omontys lots.

An internal investigation by Takeda found no quality or manufacturing issues but failed to identify the cause of the reactions, the companies said in a statement.

The Osaka, Japan-based Takeda said the termination won't affect its outlook for the fiscal year.

Affymax, of Cupertino, Calif., said its board of directors is reviewing its strategic options.

In March, Affymax said it would cut its workforce by 75% and was considering selling itself.

Write to Maria Armental at [e-mail]

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