Celgene Corporation has signed an agreement with GlaxoSmithKline to distribute and promote Alkeran (melphalan/melphalan hydrochloride), a therapy approved by the FDA for the palliative treatment of multiple myeloma. Under the terms of the agreement, Celgene will purchase Alkeran tablets and Alkeran for injection from GlaxoSmithKline and distribute the products in the United States under Celgene's label.
Alkeran, part of a commonly used treatment for front line multiple myeloma, is active against selective human neoplastic diseases and is active against both resting and rapidly dividing tumors. A bifunctional alkylating agent, Alkeran is available in both oral and intravenous forms. Alkeran for injection is indicated for the palliative treatment of patients with multiple myeloma for whom oral therapy is not appropriate.
"Our strategic agreement with GlaxoSmithKline to promote and distribute Alkeran strengthens our commitment to the treatment of multiple myeloma and our presence in the oncology community," said Sol J. Barer, President and Chief Operating Officer of Celgene Corporation. We also plan to investigate the use of Alkeran in additional treatment applications where it has shown potential in independent research.