AMAG Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:AMAG) announced this morning positive Phase III results for Feraheme as a treatment for anemia in the broad iron deficient population. Currently, this IV Iron therapy is only approved for anemia associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The very positive news marks the company’s second successful trial for the broader market, which includes treating anemia associated with cancer therapy, gynecological bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, and other severe anemias. AMAG plans to file for approval of the new indication in the U.S. and Europe later this year, and is entitled to sizable milestone payments from partner, Takeda (OTC:TKPHF) related to commercial launch and sales from this indication outside the U.S.
Given the broad iron deficiency anemia (IDA) indication and large market potential with millions of patients requiring treatment for severe anemia, partner Takeda could decide to acquire AMAG to capture the full global opportunity for Feraheme, particularly in the U.S. Expect AMAG shares to trade higher today, perhaps back to its 52 week high in the upper teens. The company is hosting a conference call this morning at 8am to discuss the results (Dial-in # 877-412-6083 for U.S. Investors, 702-495-1202 for international investors).
