Highlights of weekly biotech stock moves

Acorda Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:ACOR) gained $3.67 (14%) to $30.38 on Friday, while partner Biogen Idec Inc. (NASDAQ:BIIB) was up $0.39 to $97.11, after EMA's CHMP reversed a prior decision and recommended conditional approval of Fampyra fampridine to improve walking ability in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). After reexamining a January negative opinion, CHMP concluded that serious side effects associated with the product were rare and should not preclude its use in patients who have a significant walking disability.

Biogen Idec has rights outside the U.S. from Acorda, which has worldwide rights from Elan Corp. plc (NYSE:ELN). Elan gained $0.05 to $8.64 on Friday and was up $0.18 on the week. Acorda was up $4.33 (17%) last week, while Biogen Idec gained $0.50 (see B10)...