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Pfizer contraceptive approved for pain relief

Pfizer has received FDA approval for depo-subQ provera 104 for the management of pain associated with endometriosis. The medicine, previously approved for use as a contraceptive, is the first new treatment option for endometriosis pain in 15 years.

Depo-subQ provera 104 (medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable suspension) is a long-acting injectable contraception and a new formulation of medroxyprogesterone acetate, which is the same active ingredient as Depo-Provera contraceptive injection.

Clinical data showed that depo-subQ provera 104 is equally as effective for treating pain caused by endometriosis as leuprolide acetate, marketed by TAP Pharmaceuticals as Lupron Depot, with significantly less decline in bone mineral density, and lower incidence and severity of menopausal symptoms.

Current treatment options include pain medication, surgery or hormone therapy, including oral contraceptives or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, such as Lupron.

“The availability of depo-subQ provera 104 is good news for the millions of women who suffer from pain caused by endometriosis,” said Dr Ray Urbanski, Pfizer’s medical director. “Women will now have the opportunity to get pain relief as effective as a commonly-prescribed treatment but with fewer hot flashes and less bone mineral density loss.”

Depo-subQ provera 104 is expected to be widely available in May 2005.