FDA Approves Pfizer's Oral Drug Velsipity as First-Line Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis

Pfizer has received FDA approval for etrasimod, an oral drug for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis. Marketed as Velsipity, it is the second sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) drug to enter the market for ulcerative colitis, competing with Bristol Myers Squibb's Zeposia. Pfizer will need to differentiate Velsipity from other treatments such as steroids and biologics. The wholesale acquisition cost is set at $75,000, positioning it in the middle range among existing options.