Basilea adding 100 jobs, prepares drug launch

Basilea Pharmaceutica is adding jobs in Europe and subtracting staffers in the U.S. as the developer positions itself to the conflicting regulatory responses it faces for a key new antibiotic. With a European approval likely for ceftobiprole, Basilea says it will add 100 jobs primarily in the EU to begin commercialization. But jobs in the U.S. are being cut after the FDA delayed an approval for the antibiotic.

A spokesperson for Basilea says that the company expects European approval in the second quarter of this year. An advisory group in Europe has already recommended an approval. Last fall, though, the FDA asked for more data on the drug. Among those losing their job will be some 30 researchers at the company's HQ engaged in low-priority work. Basilea is also expanding efforts to market alitretinoin for eczema.

"With this action we are realigning our resources on the company's priorities and creating new job opportunities to drive value for our stakeholders," said Dr. Anthony Man, CEO of Basilea Pharmaceutica.

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