Pfizer launches long-acting contraceptive injection in UK

Pfizer has announced the UK launch of Sayana Press, the first subcutaneously-delivered long-acting reversible contraceptive.

The drug is designed to be administered under the skin into the thigh or abdomen every 13 weeks using a prefilled Uniject injection and represents a convenient alternative to taking a daily pill.

In two phase III clinical trials involving almost 1,800 women, Sayana Press was associated with a zero percent pregnancy rate, while more than half of the test subjects did not report any significant weight changes while using the treatment.

This medroxyprogesterone acetate-based contraceptive has been available in the US since 2004, where it is sold under the name Depo-SubQ Provera.

Dr Sharon Cameron, a consultant gynaecologist and part-time senior lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, said: "Sayana Press provides an attractive and effective option for women with busy lifestyles looking for the convenience of a long-acting contraceptive."

Last month, Pfizer announced the launch of a new online sales channel for its erectile dysfunction drug Viagra, with the aim of combating the spread of counterfeit versions of the product.