UPDATE 1-Almirall to file for COPD drug in EU; shares rise
* Says to seek European approval next year
* Move comes 18-24 months earlier than expected
* Share price jumps over 4 percent (Adds details, share reaction, comment)
MADRID, Sept 9 (Reuters) - Spanish drug company Almirall (ALM.MC) said on Wednesday it would file its once-daily aclidinium bromide drug for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease for European approval in early 2010, much earlier than expected, leading to a jump in its share price.
Almirall shares were 4.12 percent higher at 9.10 euros at 0947 GMT following the announcement about the drug, which would treat COPD.
This was 18-24 months earlier than expected, Citigroup said in a note.
"We currently assume a launch in EU in 2013 with peak sales of the franchise (including the combination with formoterol) of $200 million in Europe based on new trials with twice-daily dosing but more comparable efficacy to market-leading Spiriva," Citigroup said.
"The early filing is a surprising positive potential catalyst, although it may not lead to substantial number upgrades. It may also re-invigorate the company's search for a European commercial partner for the drug which is ongoing," it said.
The company was due to hold a conference call on the development at 1330 GMT. (Reporting by Jason Webb; Editing by Hans Peters)
