Merck Serono receives EU backing for new Saizen formulation

Merck Serono has been granted a recommendation for European approval of a new formulation of Saizen, its recombinant growth hormone treatment.

The pharmaceutical company has completed the decentralised procedure allowing for approval of the product in 18 participating member states, with official authorisations expected in the coming months.

This will allow Merck Serono to introduce Saizen Solution For Injection, an easy-to-administer version of the growth hormone deficiency treatment, in various nations over the course of 2011.

Fereydoun Firouz, head of Merck Serono's fertility and endocrinology global business unit, said the new drug offers a flexible treatment option for use by physicians.

He added: "Since the launch of Saizen, Merck Serono has continuously developed new options to facilitate the delivery of Saizen therapy."

Last month, the company received European Commission approval for a new version of its Cyanokit treatment for cyanide poisoning, which is marketed in the UK by Swedish Orphan Biovitrum.