Sanofi (France) Gets EU Panel Backing for Multiple Sclerosis Pill Aubagio
“The fact that AUBAGIO has demonstrated a positive effect on disability progression in two, phase III clinical studies underscores its importance as a new treatment option for relapsing-remitting MS patients,” said Professor Ludwig Kappos, MD, Chair of Neurology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.
There are approximately 630,000 people affected by MS in Europe. AUBAGIO is approved to treat relapsing MS in the United States and Australia.
“This positive CHMP opinion and broad recommended indication reflect the strong data from AUBAGIO’s clinical development program. As we’ve seen from the uptake of AUBAGIO in the United States, many patients are looking for an alternative to current injectable therapies,” said Genzyme CEO and President David Meeker, MD.
The CHMP did not recommend that AUBAGIO receive a new active substance (NAS) designation.
“We are very disappointed about the CHMP opinion regarding new active substance designation. We believe based on the product’s characteristics and current data that AUBAGIO is a new active substance,” added Meeker. “AUBAGIO has been studied over 10 years in one of the largest and broadest clinical development programs of any MS therapy. This decision could have a detrimental impact on future scientific innovation in MS and other diseases. We are considering all options and planning to request a re-examination of the new active substance designation.”
Additional marketing applications for AUBAGIO are under review by regulatory authorities around the world.
About AUBAGIO®
AUBAGIO is an immunomodulator with anti-inflammatory properties. Although the exact mechanism of action for AUBAGIO is not fully understood, it may involve a reduction in the number of activated lymphocytes in the central nervous system (CNS).
Indications and Usage
AUBAGIO (teriflunomide) is a once-daily, oral treatment indicated for patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). AUBAGIO 14 mg has shown significant efficacy across key measures of MS disease activity, including reducing relapses, slowing the progression of physical disability, and reducing the number of brain lesions as detected by MRI.
Important Safety Information About AUBAGIO
The AUBAGIO U.S. label includes a boxed warning citing the risk of hepatotoxicity and, teratogenicity (based on animal data).
In MS clinical studies with AUBAGIO, the incidence of serious adverse events were similar among AUBAGIO and placebo-treated patients. The most common adverse events associated with AUBAGIO in MS patients included increased ALT levels, alopecia, diarrhea, influenza, nausea and paresthesia. Teriflunomide is the principal active metabolite of leflunomide, which is indicated in the U.S. and Europe for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Severe liver injury including fatal liver failure has been reported in patients treated with leflunomide.
Leflunomide has an estimated 2.1 million patient years of exposure in rheumatoid arthritis globally since its launch.
AUBAGIO is contraindicated in pregnant women and women of childbearing potential who are not using reliable contraception.
AUBAGIO is supported by a robust clinical program with more than 5,000 trial participants in 36 countries and is amongst the largest of any MS therapy. Some patients in extension trials have been treated for up to 10 years. The EU AUBAGIO submission includes efficacy data from the TOWER (Teriflunomide Oral in people With relapsing remitting multiplE scleRosis) and TEMSO (TEriflunomide Multiple Sclerosis Oral) trials.
For full prescribing information and more information about AUBAGIO, please visit www.genzyme.com.
About Genzyme, a Sanofi Company
Genzyme has pioneered the development and delivery of transformative therapies for patients affected by rare and debilitating diseases for over 30 years. We accomplish our goals through world-class research and with the compassion and commitment of our employees. With a focus on rare diseases and multiple sclerosis, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the patients and families we serve. That goal guides and inspires us every day. Genzyme’s portfolio of transformative therapies, which are marketed in countries around the world, represents groundbreaking and life-saving advances in medicine. As a Sanofi company, Genzyme benefits from the reach and resources of one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, with a shared commitment to improving the lives of patients. Learn more at www.genzyme.com.
About Sanofi
Sanofi, a global and diversified healthcare leader, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions focused on patients’ needs. Sanofi has core strengths in the field of healthcare with seven growth platforms: diabetes solutions, human vaccines, innovative drugs, consumer healthcare, emerging markets, animal health and the new Genzyme. Sanofi is listed in Paris (SAN) and in New York (SNY).
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