Bayer HealthCare files for approval of new contraceptive system

Bayer HealthCare has filed for regulatory approval of a new long-lasting contraceptive system in the EU and US.

Applications for marketing authorisation have been submitted for LCS-16, a new low-dose levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) placed directly in the uterus for contraception for up to five years.

Data from phase III clinical trials, including 574 nulliparous and 878 parous women from North America and several European countries, have demonstrated that LCS-16 is highly effective and well tolerated regardless of age and other factors.

In addition to their effectiveness, LNG-IUS products can be removed at any time, offering a rapid return to a normal level of fertility after removal.

Dr Joerg Moeller, member of the Bayer HealthCare executive committee and head of global development, said: "As a leader in women's healthcare, we are committed to continuously advance our portfolio of innovative contraceptive methods to meet the needs of a broad range of women."

The Bayer HealthCare business saw a 19.2 percent year-on-year sales increase during the third quarter of 2015, thanks to the recent acquisition of a number of products from Merck Sharp and Dohme.