Alfasigma SpA set to take over Galapagos programme

Under the planned agreement, Alfasigma SpA will pay €50m upfront, milestones totaling €120m and mid-single to mid-double digit royalties on European sales of filgotinib. Galapagos will transfer its filgotinib business to Alfasigma, including the marketing authorisations in Europe and the UK, and associated commercial, medical and development activities.

Filgotinib is an oral once-daily seective JAK1 inhibitor approved in rheumatoid arthritis since 2020 and ulcerative colitis since 2021. Alfasigma will bring approximately 400 employees into its group across 14 European countries with strong specialist and managerial skills in areas such as R&D, medical affairs, market access, marketing and sales.

The transaction will strengthen Alfasigma’s pipeline, adding a new Phase III programme to its pipeline aiming at expanding filgotinib’s label to a third indication. Furthermore, Alfasigma expects to significantly expand its presence in Germany, UK & Ireland, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland where most of filgotinib‘s sales are concentrated. In addition, the Group will strengthen its presence in Italy, Spain, and France, where Alfasigma already has a significant presence.