New formulation of MS treatment Rebif approved in EU
Merck Serono, a division of German firm Merck KGaA, has announced that the European Commission has granted a marketing authorisation for a new formulation of Rebif (interferon beta-1a) for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS).
Merck Serono, a division of German firm Merck KGaA, has announced that the European Commission has granted a marketing authorisation for a new formulation of Rebif (interferon beta-1a) for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS).
The new formulation of Rebif has been developed to increase treatment benefit by improving injection tolerability while targeting an improved immunogenicity profile.
"The European approval of the new formulation of Rebif is an important step in our efforts to continuously provide enhanced therapeutic solutions for patients with MS," said Roberto Gradnik, head of Merck Serono's operations for Europe. "We are pleased to bring this enhanced treatment option to patients throughout Europe," he added.
The European Commission decision applies to all 27 countries in the European Union, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. Launches of the new formulation of Rebif in the various countries of the European Union will start in September 2007.
It will be available in the same strengths and pharmaceutical forms as currently registered, (8.8, 22 and 44 mcg) as a solution for injection in pre-filled syringes.