PHARMAXIS' ARIDOL WINS SWEDISH APPROVAL

Pharmaxis has announced it has received marketing approval for its asthma management product Aridol in Sweden, a crucial market for gaining wider European approval, according to the company. Following the Swedish registration, Pharmaxis will seek marketing approval of Aridol in the 27 other European Union member states via the mutual recognition procedure. Individual approvals are expected from early next year.

Aridol is the first true molecule-to-market therapeutic product discovered, developed, manufactured and marketed by an Australian company. Aridol is administered as a dry powder in a handheld inhaler. Pharmaxis has established distribution partners in Scandinavia, Italy, Greece, Switzerland and other European countries in anticipation of the EU approval.

Clinical trial results suggest that 25 percent of asthmatic patients are being treated with incorrect dosages of asthma medication, and up to 17 percent could reduce their medication without adverse effects, according to the company.