UCB and AstraZeneca have entered into a partnership to register and commercialize UCB's PEGylated anti-TNF alpha drug Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) in Brazil. The drug is to be registered for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.

Under the agreement, AstraZeneca will register Cimzia and upon approval will be the exclusive distributor of Cimzia in Brazil. In partnership with UCB, AstraZeneca will have the right to distribute future new line extensions related to Cimzia. UCB retains the right to co-promote Cimzia as well as future line extensions in Brazil. This partnership with AstraZeneca will help UCB commercialize its rich pipeline of products and foster the growth of UCB's affiliate in Brazil.

"This is an important strategic partnership for us, and supports our combined focus on meeting patient needs and developing innovative medicines," said Mark McDade, COO of UCB. "This relationship will ensure that as many Brazilian patients as possible get access to our innovative medicine Cimzia."

"This partnership with UCB will leverage AstraZeneca's expertise in regulatory affairs, sales and marketing to help bring the benefits of Cimzia to patients in Brazil," said Rubens Pedrosa, president and representative director of AstraZeneca Brazil. "AstraZeneca has been one of the fastest growing pharma companies in the country and Cimzia will complement our current portfolio of innovative medicines and support our continued growth in this important market."