Bayer gains European approval for Qlaira

Bayer’s contraceptive pill Qlaira (dienogest/estradiol valerate) has been approved in Europe, the German company has reported.

The drug’s oestrogen component is based on the same oestrogen produced by the female body, oestradiol, combined with the progestin dienogest.

Qlaira’s combination offers improved bleeding control as well as good cycle control and contraception, while the drug is also being developed for the treatment of excessive menstrual bleeding known as dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB).

This additional application would be "another important milestone" for Bayer as it would be the first contraceptive to be approved for the treatment of DUB.

Speaking about the European approval, head of Women’s Healthcare Dr Phil Smits said Qlaira "begins a new chapter in the history of oral contraception".

He added Bayer is "very proud", particularly as the low-dose contraceptive Yaz was approved recently.

People looking for scientific sales jobs may also be interested in Bayer’s decision to delist from the Tokyo Stock Exchange this week.