Astellas Pharma U.S. and Biogen Idec have entered an agreement under which Astellas will purchase the worldwide rights to Amevive, a biologic anti-inflammatory compound used in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Astellas will acquire the worldwide rights to Amevive in all indications from BI, which would continue to manufacture Amevive and supply product to Astellas. The parties anticipate closing the transaction as early as mid-April.

"The acquisition of a well-established product such as Amevive strengthens our North American Dermatology franchise and provides Astellas an opportunity to continue offering physicians this effective option for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis," said, William Fitzsimmons, Pharm.D., senior vice president, business development at Astellas Pharma.