Akebia Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:AKBA) was founded in 2007 under a strong desire to impact people living with kidney diseases. Through the years, the company has emerged as a renal community leader and with deep roots in the pharmaceutical industry. Today, it stands out as a robust development organization with an experienced nephrology-focused commercial team. Its lead product candidate, vadadustat, has been doing well. The company has confirmed the commercial launch of the oral hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor (HIF-PHI) under the trade name VAFSEO™.
The once-daily treatment is exclusively available in Japan as a treatment option for anemia resulting from chronic kidney disease (CKD). It is dosage at 300 mg minimum and 600 mg maximum, and it has already been incorporated in the listing of the Japan National Health Insurance drug price.
A collaboration agreement between Akebia and MTPC
Through a collaborative agreement, Akebia gave exclusive rights to Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation (MTPC) to develop and commercialize vadadustat in Japan. In return, it receives up to approximately $190 million from MTPC after accomplishing certain sales milestones and regulatory advisories. Akebia also receives up to 20% of tiered double-digit royalty payments on sales of vadadustat in Japan.
Collaborations have proven to be a worthwhile way of unraveling various mysteries in the pharmaceutical industry. It is also key in the current health crisis related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The company has been collaborating with key partners around the globe from the medical and biopharmaceutical communities. Through this, it has been able to share in combined strengths to advanced innovation.
Big Change is Possible When We Work Together
There are about 13 million people in Japan living with CKD and at advanced stages. More often than not, CKD results in serious complications such as enlargement of the heart, irregular heartbeat, and heart failure, all of which impact their daily lives. Hundreds of those who can afford the standard care have to rely on injectable erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
However, Akebia says there is still room to turn around the situation, thanks to advanced technology, which facilitates research.
