ROMEG Therapeutics, an innovative drug development company focused on alternative formulations to better meet clinical and patient needs, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Gloperba (colchicine) Oral Solution, 0.6 mg/5 mL for prophylaxis of gout flares in adults. Gloperba is the first liquid formulation of colchicine approved by the FDA for the prophylaxis of gout flares.
“Existing therapies do not adequately address the physician’s need to adjust dosages of colchicine to manage the toxicity profile for patients with renal and liver impairments, side effects, common drug-to-drug interactions, and age-related health disorders. The approval of Gloperba addresses a significant unmet and underserved medical need.”
“Gloperba represents an important advancement for patients who are experiencing the recurring, painful effects of gout,” said Naomi Vishnupad, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of ROMEG Therapeutics. “Existing therapies do not adequately address the physician’s need to adjust dosages of colchicine to manage the toxicity profile for patients with renal and liver impairments, side effects, common drug-to-drug interactions, and age-related health disorders. The approval of Gloperba addresses a significant unmet and underserved medical need.”
Gout is a form of arthritis affecting an estimated 8.7 million people in the United States. The current U.S. market for colchicine products is approximately $800 million. The disease is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream, and symptoms from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints include sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling and redness, frequently at the base of the big toe. Gout can become chronic if left untreated.
Physicians have used colchicine to treat gout for decades, but they are often required to adjust the dose or interrupt treatment to address drug interactions or health conditions such as when patients are undergoing kidney dialysis. Compared with currently available capsule and tablet formulations of colchicine, the Gloperba oral solution allows physicians to easily make dosage adjustments for their patients. Gloperba is also beneficial for patients who cannot swallow solid doses or pills. About 15 percent of elderly patients have difficulty swallowing and therefore require liquid formulations.
Gloperba will be available at chain, independent and speciality pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and hospitals across the U.S. in summer 2019.
Ref: https://www.rxlist.com/gloperba-drug.htm#indications
