Novartis launches MS therapy

Novartis has launched a therapy for patients who suffer from multiple sclerosis (MS).

Called Extavia, the product is initially available in Germany and Denmark, with the hope for launches across the rest of Europe over 2009.

The company added the drug contains interferon beta-1b, which has been found to reduce relapse rates by 34 per cent.

Commenting on the launch, Trevor Mundel, global head of development at Novartis, said the product will provide patients and physicians with “an additional option” in treatment.

He added: “This important first step also opens the way for Novartis to build supportive partnerships with the MS community and lays the foundations for providing innovative approaches to MS care.”

The organisation noted the drug can be used from the first time symptoms of the condition are displayed to advanced relapsing forms.

Last month, Novartis reported phase III tests on oral therapy FTY720 had found it reduced relapse rates in MS patients by 52 per cent.

The company said it was going to make regulatory submissions for the product in the EU and US before the end of 2009.