Positive CHMP Opinion for abatacept clickJect pre-filled pen

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (BMS) have announced that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use of the European Medicines Agency has adopted a positive opinion in the European Union approving the ClickJect Pre-Filled Pen, a new autoinjector delivery device for Orencia (abatacept) for use in adult patients with moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in combination with methotrexate after inadequate DMARD response. 

Abatacept now offers a portfolio of three administration options, in the form of two subcutaneous (SC) self-injections; a pre-filled pen and the pre-filled syringe, as well as by intravenous infusion (IV).

“The new pre-filled pen offers patients with moderate to severe active RA a further administration option,” said Dr Andrew Östör, Director of the Rheumatology Clinical Research Unit, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge. “This new delivery option provides patients the choice and flexibility they need in order to remain focused on their daily lives.” 

RA is a chronic autoimmune disease thatcauses inflammation in the joints. The main symptoms are joint painand swelling. It can develop at any age, but most commonly startsbetween the ages of 40 and 60. It is two to three times more commonin women than in men. In the UK, 690,000 are affected by RA, apainful condition which can cause severe disability and ultimately affect aperson’s ability to carry out everyday tasks.  More than 50%of people with RA have to stop working and give up their jobs within six yearsof being diagnosed because of their disease.  Early treatmentcan reduce joint damage and limit the impact of RA on a person’s quality oflife. There are different medicines for the treatment of RA, someof which aim to relieve symptoms and others which help to slow the progressionof the condition.