Clinical need

Ipsen UK & Ireland launches new pre-filled syringe

August 6, 2019

Doctor Filling in Form

iStock.com/BrianAJackson

The UK affiliate of Ipsen has announced the launch of a new pre-filled syringe for Somatuline® Autogel® (lanreotide).

Results from five separate studies, involving patients and healthcare professionals have informed the redesign of the lanreotide syringe. This patient-centred research has enabled the development, testing and validation of the syringe, which is intended to enable patients to have more control of their disease by supporting self or partner injection, and potentially requiring fewer hospital visits. The syringe is now available for use on the NHS for the treatment of adult patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (GEP-NETs), symptoms associated with neuroendocrine (particularly carcinoid) tumours (NETs), and acromegaly.

Wendy Martin, NET Clinical Nurse Specialist at Kings College London and Lead Investigator, said:

“From today we can genuinely discuss independence for patients living with these chronic, burdensome disease. Patients want and need treatment options that allow them as much freedom and flexibility as possible so that they can live fuller lives and spend, what is for them precious time with family and friends. I hope that today’s development can transform NET clinics across the UK and further enhance patient care.”

Over 4,000 people are diagnosed with a NET each year in the UK and although once considered rare, the incidence of NETs is on the rise. Survival rates have improved over the last decade, and so patients are living for longer with the disease. However, living with NETs has a considerable impact on patients’ personal and work lives and data suggest there is a need to improve the patient experience.

Acromegaly is a rare hormone disorder resulting in an overgrowth of all organ systems, bones, joints and soft tissues. The incidence in Europe is around 2-4 per million population and its prevalence estimates range from 36 to 60 per million.
New features include modified ergonomics and handling, a needle shield removal system, an injection process with plunger support and a thermoform tray to prevent accidental plunger depression. The automatic, built-in safety system, which helps to prevent needle stick injury by locking in place following the administration, has not been changed. The mode of administration of lanreotide with the new pre-filled syringe remains the same (i.e. deep subcutaneous injection).
Asad Mohsin Ali, UK & Ireland General Manager, said:

“Today’s launch of a new pre-filled syringe for Somatuline Autogel® in the UK represents a significant milestone in our commitment to patient-centric innovation. This medicine has been a routine part of clinical practice for the treatment of both NETs and acromegaly for many years – I am proud that we are able to challenge our own thinking to ensure that this medicine reaches patients in a way that puts their needs and expectations at the centre.”

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