Schering-Plough labelling for hep C treatment approved

Schering-Plough has received approval for the new labelling of two drugs to treat chronic hepatitis C with compensated liver disease.

The authorisation is for Pegintron and Rebetol for use in patients from the age three with the disease and condition.

It is now the first pegylated interferon combination therapy approved that is not restricted to treatment-naive patients.

Robert J Spiegel, chief medical officer and senior vice-president of the company’s research institute, explained the ruling will now enable physicians to have a drug option that offers a second chance for success to those who failed prior therapy.

He commented: “This approval further underscores Schering-Plough’s leadership and long-term commitment to developing new treatment options and innovative therapies to meet the needs of patients with hepatitis C.”

It was announced this week that Schering-Plough is merging with its long-term partner in its cholesterol joint venture Merck.

According to the former’s chairman and chief executive officer Fred Hassan, the united firm will be in a good position to discover new therapies to help patients.

The combined company will join under the name Merck.