Auxilium Pharma says FDA cleared its drug Xiaflex to treat constriction of the fingers

Auxilium says FDA approved hand drug Xiaflex

MALVERN, Pa. — Auxilium Pharmaceuticals said it has received marketing approval for a drug to treat a condition that constricts the fingers and causes them to bend inward.

The company’s shares jumped 10 percent, or $2.94, to $31.02.

The Food and Drug Administration approved Xiaflex as a treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture, a progressive condition.

Auxilium Pharmaceuticals Inc. said Xiaflex is the only drug approved to treat the disease. It plans to begin shipping the drug in early March and begin a full commercial launch later that month.

Pfizer Inc. has the marketing rights for Xiaflex in the European Union, where it has not yet been approved.