"The launch of our sales force and market access teams is a pivotal moment for Shorla as we establish a direct presence in the U.S. oncology market where effective treatments continue to be important for many patients with cancer,” said Sharon Cunningham, CEO of Shorla.
Led by Shorla’s National Sales Director, industry veteran Rob Rice, the company’s new sales force, includes representatives from EVERSANA and Shorla. Supporting this expansion, Shorla has also built an internal market access team, spearheaded by oncology leader VP of Market Access, Jeremy Teasell, to ensure its treatments remain accessible and affordable for patients.
“With the leadership of Rob and Jeremy and our strong field and account management teams, we are poised to bring IMKELDI to healthcare providers and patients who need a convenient formulation of Imatinib that allows for precise dosing,” added Rayna Herman, CCO of Shorla.
As part of its patient support efforts, Shorla has partnered with EVERSANA’s specialty pharmacy to dispense IMKELDI free of charge to eligible uninsured patients through its Patient Assistance Program (PAP).
IMKELDI, which received FDA approval in November 2024, is now available for order through specialty distribution partners in the U.S. IMKELDI’s advanced liquid formulation of imatinib is designed to provide dosing accuracy and can help slow or prevent the growth of specific cancers, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome /myeloproliferative disease (MDS/MPD), and gastrointestinal tumors (GIST).
“We’re proud to support Shorla’s next phase of growth,” said Jim Lang, CEO, EVERSANA. “Our collaboration also ensures oncology professionals have the right resources to provide necessary treatment options to patients with cancer.”
In 2024, an estimated 9,280 people were diagnosed with CML1, over 10,000 with MDS/MPD2, and up to 6,000 with GIST3 in the U.S. Despite the proven clinical benefits of imatinib, patient adherence can be an issue,4,5 underscoring a critical unmet need for a more accessible, patient-friendly oral solution delivery system.
About IMKELDI:
IMKELDI is an oral solution of imatinib mesylate, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in certain forms of leukemia (such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia) and other cancers in adults and pediatric patients as young as one year old. Featuring a convenient, palatable strawberry flavor and a stable formulation that does not require refrigeration, IMKELDI offers a patient-friendly, precise treatment option designed to improve adherence and accessibility.
About Shorla Oncology:
Shorla Oncology is a privately-held, U.S. and Ireland-based commercial stage specialty pharmaceutical company established by Sharon Cunningham and Orlaith Ryan. The company has an advanced pipeline of innovative oncology drugs for orphan and pediatric cancers. Shorla is focused on indications where existing treatments are limited, in shortage or the drug applications are inadequate for the target population. The company’s growing portfolio brings accessible, affordable and life-saving treatments to patients, delivering a major contribution to patient care. Shorla currently markets two products, Nelarabine for the treatment of T-cell leukemia and JYLAMVO for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and other indications.
About EVERSANA:
EVERSANA® is a leading independent provider of global services to the life sciences industry. The company’s integrated solutions are rooted in the patient experience and span all stages of the product life cycle to deliver long-term, sustainable value for patients, prescribers, channel partners and payers. The company serves more than 650 organizations, including innovative start-ups and established pharmaceutical companies, to advance life sciences solutions for a healthier world.
For more information please visit, www.eversana.com
