FDA OKs Abilify for Autism-linked Irritability
From Associated Press (November 21, 2009)
PRINCETON, N.J.--The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved
top-selling Abilify as a treatment for autism-related irritability
in children from the ages of 6 to 17, drug maker Bristol-Myers
Squibb Co. said Friday.
Bristol-Myers and Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., based in Tokyo, are
collaborators on the development and distribution of Abilify in the
U.S. and Europe.
Abilify is Bristol-Myers' second-biggest revenue generator, with
$2.2 billion in 2008 sales.
The FDA's latest approval allows the drug to be used to treat
symptoms associated with autism such as aggression toward others,
deliberate infliction of self-injury, tempter tantrums and
moodiness.
The companies said in a statement that it was intended to be used
as part of a more comprehensive treatment program that includes
educational, psychological and social aspects.
Several other drug companies sell medications that compete with
Abilify for customers. One is Schering-Plough Corp.'s Saphris, used
to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Others include Pfizer
Inc.'s Geodon, Johnson & Johnson's Risperdal, AstraZeneca PLC's
Seroquel and Eli Lilly & Co.'s Zyprexa. The drugs have combined
sales of well over $15 billion a year.
Bristol-Myers shares rose 4 cents to $24.50 in after-hours trading
Friday after closing at $24.46, up 43 cents from a day earlier.
Posted: November 2009
