Summary
This article is important in that the withdrawal of efalizumab by Genentech was appropriate in view of its serious side effect of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). This biologic agent was already declining in usage because of its other side effects, and the presence of other strong competitors with equal or higher efficacy and less side effects. This was to be compounded by the impending release of ustekinumab
Analysis
The company most affected will be Genentech, but the financial impact will be small as the sales of efalizumab were declining anyway. It will be a blow to their goal of introducing other biologics for use with other skin conditions. Abbott(Humira), Amgen(Enbrel), and Centocor (Remicade and the impending Ustekinumab) will benefit in a small way.
