Biogen Idec has purchased the overseas rights to Fampridine-SR, a drug that could help multiple sclerosis patients walk more easily.
Acorda Therapeutics, based in New York, will receive an up-front payment of $110 million. In exchange, Biogen will commercialize Fampridine-SR and have responsibility for regulatory activities and future clinical development of Fampridine-SR in those markets
Acorda has applied to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for approval to market the drug in the U.S. It retains the U.S. rights to the treatment.
Biogen Idec operates a manufacturing facility in Research Triangle Park, where it produces MS treatments TYSABRI and AVONEX.