FDA fast tracks MedImmune flu drug

The US Food and Drug Administration has given fast-track status to MedImmune’s investigational human monoclonal antibody (MAb), MEDI8852, for the treatment of patients hospitalized with Type A strain influenza.

MedImmune, the global biologics research and development arm of Anglo-Swedish pharma major AstraZeneca (LSE: AZN), welcomed the move.

Steve Projan, senior vice president of R&D and infectious diseases and vaccines, said: “We are pleased that the FDA has granted Fast Track designation for MEDI8852 as it recognizes the importance of accelerating the development of new medicines for the prevention and treatment of challenging infectious diseases. This is the fourth such designation that MedImmune has received for potential medicines in infectious diseases since 2014, a testament to our commitment to meeting unmet medical need.”