Cyanokit was approved by the Japanese Ministry of Health in November 2007, for the treatment of cyanide intoxication caused by hydrocyanic acid and its derivatives in both adults and the pediatric population. Cyanokit will be mainly distributed to hospitals and healthcare emergency services.
The unique mechanism of action of Cyanokit is based on its ability to tightly bind cyanide ions and it is to be administered in conjunction with appropriate decontamination and supportive measures. Cyanokit is also commercially available in the US and has recently been approved in the EU.
Franck Latrille, head of Merck Serono’s International Operations, said: “We believe that Cyanokit will make a difference on the survival and prevention of irreversible neurological injury of those who have been poisoned, even heavily, by cyanide.”