Vertex sales and marketing update

Vertex will discontinue sales of HCV drug Incivek telaprevir in the U.S. by Oct. 16 in light of available alternative treatments and diminishing market demand, according to a letter sent to healthcare providers. Sales of the HCV NS3/4a protease complex inhibitor fell 88% to $25.3 million in 2Q14 from $211.7 million in 2Q13.

In October 2013, Vertex restructured and eliminated its U.S. sales force for Incivek due to the “continued and rapid decline” in sales of the drug, which Vertex launched in May 2011. The company shifted its focus to cystic fibrosis and other programs in its pipeline. Sales of Vertex’s CF drug Kalydeco ivacaftor rose 14% to $113 million in 2Q14 (see BioCentury Nov. 4, 2013). ...