Bayer extends liver cancer drug portfolio

Marketing authorisation has been granted to Bayer for its cancer-fighting drug Nexavar (sorafenib) in Japan, it emerged today.

Priority review status has been awarded for the product, which is used in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Bayer also announced the regulatory approval of contrast agent Primovist (gadoxetic acid disodium). This is used for magnetic resonance imaging of the liver and is expected to be available on the Japanese market shortly.

Paulo Pucci, president of Bayer Healthcare’s global business unit of oncology, said the review status of Nexavar emphasises the “high medical need” for new and innovative liver cancer treatment options.

“We at Bayer are highly committed to expediting the clinical development of this innovative therapy also across additional tumour types,” he added.

Meanwhile, yesterday saw the group establish a “special access” service in the US related to the withdrawal of the current liquid formulation of Leukine.