Hospira to commence phase III trial for biosimilar erythropoietin

Hospira has announced the commencement of a phase III clinical study programme for its biosimilar erythropoietin (EPO) product.

The company has enrolled its first patient for an initial phase III trial in the US, which will aim to compare the safety and efficacy of biosimilar EPO to its reference product, the Amgen drug Epogen.

EPO is a treatment for anaemia associated with chronic renal failure, with Hospira already offering a biosimilar EPO in Europe called Retacrit, which has been available since early 2008.

It is the only US-based firm to sell biosimilar treatments in Europe at present, with results from the latest trial – which are expected in 2013 – designed to help expand availability of the therapies worldwide.

Dr Sumant Ramachandra, chief scientific officer and senior vice-president for research and development and medical and regulatory affairs at Hospira, said: "Patient enrolment in our phase III EPO program is another important step as Hospira prepares to introduce safe, effective and affordable biosimilars."

Earlier this month, John Staley took over as non-executive chairman of Hospira, following the departure of Christopher Begley.