Teva Pharmaceuticals and Polpharma Biologics International have entered into a global licensing agreement aimed to accelerate access to a proposed biosimilar of Ocrevus (ocrelizumab), a major step toward expanding treatment options for patients worldwide.

Under the agreement, Teva subsidiary Teva Pharmaceuticals International GmbH will receive exclusive rights to commercialize both intravenous and subcutaneous formulations of Polpharma Biologics’ proposed ocrelizumab biosimilar following regulatory approval.

The collaboration brings together Polpharma Biologics’ established expertise in biosimilar development and manufacturing with Teva’s global commercial reach, regulatory capabilities, and experience delivering complex medicines to markets around the world.

"This agreement reflects our focus on pushing high-quality biologics to the finish line efficiently and at scale,” said Anjan Selz, Chief Executive Officer of Polpharma Biologics International AG. 

“Teva brings reach, discipline and real commercial strength to our strategic collaboration. Combining its global footprint with our technical and development capabilities creates a clear path to getting this medicine to patients who need more treatment options.”

As part of the agreement, Polpharma Biologics will retain full responsibility for the development and manufacturing of the biosimilar candidate. Teva will lead regulatory submissions and, once approved, commercialization efforts across key global markets, including the United States, Europe, Brazil, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Israel and Turkey.

The deal strengthens Teva’s expanding biosimilars portfolio as the company continues its Pivot to Growth strategy, leveraging its worldwide infrastructure and expertise in complex medicines to improve access to biologic treatments.

“This agreement is aligned with Teva’s Pivot to Growth strategy and our focus on expanding our biosimilars pipeline. With our global commercial footprint and deep expertise in complex medicines, we are well positioned to help bring this biosimilar candidate to patients,” said Yolanda Tibbe, Vice President, Global Head of Biosimilars at Teva.