Eisai also will assume responsibility for post-marketing studies and product distribution, as well as book all US sales. According to this agreement, Pfizer will transfer the new drug application for Fragmin to Eisai for the duration of the deal.
Fragmin is a clot-preventing agent, for subcutaneous injection only, in a class of drugs known as low-molecular-weight heparins.
In the US, Fragmin is indicated for prevention of deep vein thrombosis which may lead to pulmonary embolism, in the following patient groups: Patients undergoing hip replacement surgery; at-risk patients undergoing abdominal surgery; and at-risk acutely ill patients whose mobility is severely restricted.
Fragmin is also approved for prophylaxis of ischemic complications resulting from unstable angina and non-Q-wave myocardial infarction (heart attack), when used with aspirin.
Deep vein thrombosis is caused by blood clots in the large veins, which can break away, travel to the lungs and cause pulmonary embolism. The goal of Fragmin therapy is to prevent blood clots from forming.
“Eisai is committed to educating people at risk for developing blood clots and to offering physicians Fragmin as an important treatment option,” said Lonnel Coats, president and COO, Eisai Inc. “In keeping with our human health care mission to put the needs of patients and their families first, we are pleased to make Fragmin available for this life-threatening condition.”