Ferring launches prostate cancer drug

Ferring has launched a drug that is an “important new step” for the treatment of advanced, hormone-dependent prostate cancer.

The GnRH receptor blocker, Firmagon (degarelix), was launched across the continent yesterday and details were presented at the 24th Annual European Association of Urology (EAU).

Designed to be administered as a subcutaneous injection, the medication has a novel mechanism of action that is different from hormonal therapies which are commonly used.

It works by blocking the receptors in the pituitary gland, which in turn decreases testosterone production in the testicles. As a result, it can slow the growth of prostate cancer cells.

John Anderson, consultant urological surgeon at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield, explained the drug can offer a new option and hope for many patients.

He commented: “Our goal is to achieve fast and sustained reduction in testosterone levels and Firmagon offers a rapid impact which is comparable to the immediacy achieved by surgery.”

Last month, Ferring announced the creation of a new executive board, which will be led by Michel Pettigrew.