Skip to Main Content

SAN DIEGO — Travere Therapeutics, a biotech focused both on treating rare diseases and distancing itself from controversial founder Martin Shkreli, on Friday won accelerated approval for a drug that treats IgA nephropathy, a rare and deadly autoimmune disease that attacks the kidneys and can lead to organ failure.

The drug, which will be sold under the name Filspari, is a once-a-day oral tablet that comes in 200-milligram and 400-milligram doses. The Food and Drug Administration granted accelerated approval after interim results from an ongoing Phase 3 clinical trial found that the treatment significantly reduced protein levels in the urine of patients, an indirect marker of improved kidney function.

advertisement

But after news of the approval — and that the drug’s label would include a hefty set of “black box” warnings, the FDA’s strictest safety concerns — shares of San Diego-based Travere dropped a bit over 12%, closing at $17.82.

STAT+ Exclusive Story

STAT+

This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers

Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the biotech sector — by subscribing to STAT+.

Already have an account? Log in

Already have an account? Log in

Monthly

$39

Totals $468 per year

$39/month Get Started

Totals $468 per year

Starter

$30

for 3 months, then $39/month

$30 for 3 months Get Started

Then $39/month

Annual

$399

Save 15%

$399/year Get Started

Save 15%

11+ Users

Custom

Savings start at 25%!

Request A Quote Request A Quote

Savings start at 25%!

2-10 Users

$300

Annually per user

$300/year Get Started

$300 Annually per user

View All Plans

Get unlimited access to award-winning journalism and exclusive events.

Subscribe

STAT encourages you to share your voice. We welcome your commentary, criticism, and expertise on our subscriber-only platform, STAT+ Connect

To submit a correction request, please visit our Contact Us page.