Shares in global pharma firm Baxalta (NYSE:BXLT), which has been pursued by British group Shire (LON:SHP) nudged higher after it received European marketing permission to give its OBIZUR drug to adults who suffer from acquired heamophilia A.
The green light comes after a Phase II/III open-label clinical trial, which evaluated the drug's efficacy and safety and showed positive results.
OBIZUR can treat bleeding in adult patients with acquired heamophilia, caused by antibodies to Factor VIII, a rare but life-threatening bleeding disorder.
The group's vice president of haematology, Brian Goff, told investors in a statement: “Gaining Marketing Authorization for this first recombinant porcine option for acquired haemophilia in Europe reflects Baxalta’s commitment to improving patient lives.”
Last week the US biotech reported better-than-expected results for its third quarter.
In its third quarter to end September, Baxalta posted a profit of US$309mln, up from US$246 million a year earlier.
Net sales grew 7.2% to $1.6 billion, which was better than analysts had expected.
Baxalta specialises in making drugs that treat rare bleeding disorders.
Earlier this year, Shire made an unsolicited $30.6 billion takeover bid, which was rebuffed.
On Friday, Baxalta shares added 2.35% to stand at US$34.03.