Eli Lilly reports positive CHMP opinion for Forsteo

Eli Lilly has announced that Forsteo (teriparatide [rDNA origin] injection) has received a positive opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products (CHMP) of the European Medicines Evaluation Agency.

The compound has received this opinion for its authorisation as a treatment for osteoporosis associated with systemic and sustained glucocorticoid therapy in those at increased risk for fracture

Forsteo operates by increasing the number and action of osteoblast cells that build bones to stimulate new bone formation.

The compounds was originally given marketing approval for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk for fracture in 2003, receiving an expanding indication for men at risk of fracture last year.

Gwen Krivi, vice-president of Lilly Research Laboratories, said: “Research has shown that patients taking chronic glucocorticoid therapy may begin to experience bone loss after three to six months of such treatment, resulting in a high incidence of fractures in this patient population.”

He added that the decision by the CHMP brings the firm closer to offering teriparatide as a new treatment option for those patients with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis.

Last month, Lilly announced that 2007 had been a successful year at the firm distinguished by strong financial results in the fourth quarter.