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European Commission Grants Marketing Authorization for Cerdelga® (eliglustat), Genzyme’s Oral Therapy for Gaucher Disease Type 1
CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Genzyme, a Sanofi company, announced today that the European Commission (EC) has granted marketing authorization for Cerdelga® (INN: eliglustat) capsules, a first line oral therapy for certain adults living with Gaucher disease type 1. A small number of adult patients who metabolize Cerdelga more quickly or at an undetermined rate, as detected by an established genetic laboratory test, will not be eligible for Cerdelga treatment. Cerdelga was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in August 2014, and is under review by other regulatory authorities around the world. It is expected that Cerdelga will be available commercially in EU countries beginning in 2015 and over the next few years.
Cerdelga is a potent, highly specific ceramide analogue inhibitor of glucosylceramide synthase with broad tissue distribution including to bone marrow. It reduces the production of glucosylceramide, the substance that builds up in the cells and tissues of people with Gaucher disease type 1. Cerdelga is indicated in the European Union for the long-term treatment of adult patients with Gaucher disease type 1 (GD1), who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers (PMs), intermediate metabolizers (IMs) or extensive metabolizers (EMs).
The majority of adverse reactions of Cerdelga are mild and transient. The most commonly reported adverse reaction with Cerdelga is diarrhea, in approximately 6% of the patients. The incidence of diarrhea was the same or higher with placebo than with Cerdelga in the placebo-controlled pivotal study. Less than 2% of patients receiving Cerdelga permanently discontinued treatment due to any adverse reaction.
The EC approval was based on data from the Cerdelga clinical development program, the largest clinical research program ever conducted in Gaucher disease type 1, with approximately 400 patients treated in 29 countries. The development program included two pivotal Phase 3 clinical trials. In a Phase 3 placebo-controlled trial (ENGAGE, a study in treatment-naïve patients with Gaucher disease type 1) improvements were seen across the following endpoints after 9 months on Cerdelga: spleen size, platelet levels, hemoglobin levels, and liver volume. The second Phase 3 trial was designed to assess disease stability in patients previously treated with enzyme replacement therapy (ENCORE). That trial met the pre-specified criteria for non-inferiority to an enzyme replacement therapy (imiglucerase), which was a composite endpoint of each of the following parameters: spleen volume, hemoglobin levels, platelet counts, and liver volume. Patients in the registration studies continued to receive Cerdelga in the extension periods, and the majority of patients are in their 4th or 5th year of treatment. In a Phase 2 clinical study in treatment-naïve patients, Cerdelga has shown a positive effect on bone parameters including Bone Marrow Burden (BMB) and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) which was sustained over a period of at least 4 years. The majority of Phase 2 patients in the extension period are now in their 8th year of treatment.
About Gaucher Disease
Gaucher disease is an inherited condition affecting fewer than 10,000 people worldwide. People with Gaucher disease do not have enough of an enzyme, acid β-glucosidase (glucocerebrosidase) that breaks down a certain type of fat molecule. As a result, lipid engorged cells (called Gaucher cells) amass in different parts of the body, primarily the spleen, liver and bone marrow. Accumulation of Gaucher cells may cause spleen and liver enlargement, anemia, excessive bleeding and bruising, bone disease and a number of other signs and symptoms. The most common form of Gaucher disease, type 1, generally does not affect the brain.
About Cerdelga
Cerdelga (eliglustat), a novel glucosylceramide analog given orally, was designed to partially inhibit the enzyme glucosylceramide synthase, which results in reduced production of glucosylceramide. Glucosylceramide is the substance that builds up in the cells and tissues of people with Gaucher disease. The concept was initially developed by the late Norman Radin, PhD, from the University of Michigan. In pre-clinical studies, the molecule, developed with James A. Shayman, MD, also from the University of Michigan, showed specificity for glucosylceramide synthase. Following an extensive pre-clinical and early clinical research program, Cerdelga was studied in the largest Phase 3 clinical program ever conducted in Gaucher disease.
Cerdelga is registered as an orphan medicinal product for the treatment of Gaucher disease in the Community Register of Orphan Medicinal Products.
EU indication and Usage
Cerdelga is indicated for the long-term treatment of adult patients with Gaucher disease type 1 (GD1), who are CYP2D6 poor metabolisers (PMs), intermediate metabolisers (IMs) or extensive metabolisers (EMs).
Prescribing information and more information about Cerdelga for EU patients will be available shortly at: http://ec.europa.eu/health/documents/community-register/html/index_en.htm.
Media Contact:
Lori Gorski (617) 768-9344
Lori.Gorski@genzyme.com
About Genzyme, a Sanofi Company
Genzyme has pioneered the development and delivery of transformative therapies for patients affected by rare and debilitating diseases for over 30 years. We accomplish our goals through world-class research and with the compassion and commitment of our employees. With a focus on rare diseases and multiple sclerosis, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the patients and families we serve. That goal guides and inspires us every day. Genzyme’s portfolio of transformative therapies, which are marketed in countries around the world, represents groundbreaking and life-saving advances in medicine. As a Sanofi company, Genzyme benefits from the reach and resources of one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, with a shared commitment to improving the lives of patients. Learn more at www.genzyme.com.
About Sanofi
Sanofi, a global healthcare leader, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions focused on patients' needs. Sanofi has core strengths in the field of healthcare with seven growth platforms: diabetes solutions, human vaccines, innovative drugs, consumer healthcare, emerging markets, animal health and Genzyme. Sanofi is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: SAN) and in New York (NYSE: SNY).
Genzyme® and Cerdelga® are registered trademarks of Genzyme Corporation. All rights reserved.
