Celltrion expands European outreach with third oncology biosimilar

South Korea’s Celltrion Healthcare has launched Vegzelma (CT-P16), its biosimilar to bevacizumab, in the European market. A biosimilar is a generic version of a biological drug.

Vegzelma, referencing Avastin, gained approval from the European Commission (EC) for the treatment of European patients with metastatic breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, advanced and/or metastatic renal cell cancer, metastatic carcinoma of the colon or rectum, and ovarian cancer. The firm launched the product in Britain and Germany this month and signed a deal to supply it to hospitals in Finland for a year starting early next year.

Before Vegzelma, the firm launched other oncology biosimilars, Truxima and Herzuma, in Europe. Truxima is used for blood cancer, while Herzuma treats breast and stomach cancer.

As the two products hold top market shares in the market, it hopes for synergy with the launch of Vegzelma. “Our market penetration started with Britain and Germany. We plan to advance into other countries phase by phase to grab a strong position in Europe,” said Ha Tae-hun, head of the U.S./ E.U. sales and operation.

Celltrion Healthcare shares rose 0.15 percent to 67,900 won in the early session of Wednesday.

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