Pfizer/Protalix’s Elelyso Offers Gaucher Patients A Vegetarian Option

Gaucher disease enzyme-replacement therapy Elelyso is the first FDA-approved plant-cell based recombinant therapeutic protein, a biosimilar option that may eliminate the production-related problems Genzyme’s Cerezyme and Shire’s Vpriv face with animal cell-based processes. Pfizer is launching Elelyso at a 25% discount to Cerezyme and promising to maintain a two-year supply.

Pfizer Inc./Protalix BioTherapeutics Inc. are guaranteeing Gaucher disease patients who switch to newly approved Elelyso (taliglucerase alfa) access to a two-year supply of the enzyme replacement therapy to inspire them to switch to the plant-based option from animal-based competitor products that have run into production difficulties.

In addition to the customary patient support for orphan indications, Elelyso (formerly Uplyso) will be launched with a Supply Continuity Program, Vera Wu, Pfizer global asset team lead for Elelyso,...

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