Schering-Plough and Organon SRBA gets EU approval

Schering-Plough has announced that Bridion (sugammadex) injection has been approved for use in the European Union (EU).

The compound developed by Schering-Plough together with Organon BioSciences is the first and only selective relaxant binding agent (SRBA) approved in the EU.

Describing the drug as the first major advance in anaesthesia in 20 years, Schering-Plough notes Bridion is indicated for the routine reversal of rocuronium or vecuronium – commonly-used muslce relaxants.

It is also indicated for the immediate reversal of rocuronium in adults.

The compound operates by encapsulating the muscle relaxant molecule and making it inactive and was designed to reverse moderate and deep muscle relaxation induced during general anaesthesia.

Thomas P Koestler, executive vice-president and president of Schering-Plough Research Institute, said: “This is the first major approval of a product from our combination with Organon BioSciences and is a significant achievement for Schering-Plough.”

He added this approval further validates the partnership between the companies which closed in November 2007, with the collaboration now making a positive contribution to the business.

In March 2008, Schering-Plough suggested that the improved management of muscle relaxation offered by sugammadex could transform the practice of anaesthesia.