Portola Pharmaceuticals

Portola Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company that specializes in the development and commercialization of novel therapeutics in the areas of thrombosis, other hematologic disorders, and inflammation. The company was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in South San Francisco, California.

History

Portola Pharmaceuticals was founded by Dr. Charles Homcy and Dr. Vaughan Clift in 2003. The company was initially focused on the development of novel therapeutics for cardiovascular disease. Over the years, the company has expanded its focus to include other hematologic disorders and inflammation.

Products

Portola Pharmaceuticals has developed several products that have received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These include:

• Andexxa (Andexanet alfa): This is a recombinant protein specifically designed to reverse the anticoagulant activity of both direct and indirect Factor Xa inhibitors in patients with major bleeding or those requiring urgent surgery.
• Bevyxxa (Betrixaban): This is an oral, once-daily Factor Xa inhibitor anticoagulant approved for the prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in adult patients hospitalized for an acute medical illness.

Research and Development

Portola Pharmaceuticals is actively involved in the research and development of new therapeutics. The company's R&D efforts are primarily focused on the discovery and development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of thrombosis and other hematologic disorders.

Acquisition

In July 2020, Portola Pharmaceuticals was acquired by Alexion Pharmaceuticals, a global biopharmaceutical company focused on serving patients with severe and rare disorders.

See Also

• Biotechnology
• Pharmaceutical industry
• Alexion Pharmaceuticals
• Food and Drug Administration