Acorda Therapeutics, Inc.
(
ACOR
) recently announced the enrollment of the first patient in a
proof-of-concept study exploring the use of Ampyra in patients with
post stroke deficits after an ischemic stroke.
Ampyra's safety and tolerability will be evaluated in the study
(n=66). The enrolled subjects must have experienced ischemic stroke
at least six months prior to enrollment. Initial results should be
out in early 2013.
According to Acorda, more than 7 million people have suffered a
stroke in the US with about 800,000 new cases of stroke occurring
every year in the country. The company further adds that more than
half of the stroke survivors either have ongoing sensorimotor or
walking impairments, or both. No pharmaceutical treatment is
currently available for these impairments - this provides Acorda
with significant commercial opportunity if Ampyra is developed
successfully for this patient population.
Apart from this study, Acorda is working on expanding Ampyra's
label into other indications. Ampyra is currently in a
proof-of-concept study in adults with cerebral palsy - initial
results should be out later this year. Besides this, Ampyra's
potential within multiple sclerosis and other disease areas is also
being investigated.
Ampyra is currently approved in the US to improve walking in
patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Biogen Idec Inc
. (
BIIB
) is the company's exclusive partner to develop and commercialize
Ampyra (ex-US trade name: Fampyra) outside the US. Fampyra got
conditional approval from the European Commission for the
improvement of walking in adult patients with MS with walking
disability. Acorda also has a supply agreement with
Elan Corporation
(
ELN
) for manufacturing Ampyra.
Sales from Ampyra in the first quarter of 2012 were $57.4
million. Acorda reiterated its revenue guidance for Ampyra in the
range of $255-$275 million.
Our Recommendation
First quarter Ampyra revenues remained flat on a sequential
basis. Even though January sales of the drug were disappointing,
Ampyra sales improved from February. Moreover, Acorda is working on
increasing awareness of Ampyra, which should drive sales. We are
pleased with the company's efforts to expand Ampyra's label.
However, it will be a while before data from additional studies
will be available. In the meantime, we expect investor focus to
remain on the sales ramp-up of the drug.
We currently have a Neutral recommendation on Acorda. The stock
carries a Zacks #3 Rank (short-term 'Hold' rating).
ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis
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