Ipsen reports positive prostate cancer data for subcutaneous Decapeptyl

Ipsen has announced positive phase III trial data showing the benefits that subcutaneously-administered Decapeptyl can offer to prostate cancer patients.

Results from the clinical study confirmed the safety and efficacy of this formulation of the drug, helping to control testosterone and antigen levels in the body after four weeks, with positive trends continuing up to 26 weeks later.

The efficacy results and safety profile were consistent with those generated by Decapeptyl when administered via the more traditional intramuscular route, suggesting this new version of the drug could be a useful alternative option.

Based on this data, Ipsen is now seeking approval of this new indication of the product to be added to the existing intramuscular specification.

Claude Bertrand, executive vice-president of research and development and chief scientific officer of Ipsen, said: "The subcutaneous route widens the options for the administration of Decapeptyl and may be offered to patients for whom intramuscular administration is not recommended."

Last week, the firm named Aymeric Le Chatelier as its new executive vice-president and chief financial officer, succeeding the outgoing Susheel Surpal.