US approval for Bayer's drug that reduces stroke risk

Bayer received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for asundexian, the first cleared therapy targeting the Factor XIa protein involved in blood clotting. In clinical trials the drug cut the risk of recurrent ischemic stroke by 26% in specific patient groups. The approval gives the German drug and chemicals maker a first-in-class asset in a competitive anticoagulant field. Investors will watch launch pricing and reimbursement, uptake among stroke patients, and whether Bayer expands the label into broader cardiovascular uses.