CHMP recommends Alpivab for the treatment of uncomplicated influenza.-Biocryst + Seqirus.

The Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) adopted a positive opinion, recommending the granting of a marketing authorisation for the medicinal product Alpivab, intended for the treatment of uncomplicated influenza. The applicant for this medicinal product is Biocryst UK Limited. Alpivab will be available as concentrate for solution for infusion (200 mg). The active substance of Alpivab is peramivir, an inhibitor of influenza virus neuraminidase (ATC code: J05AH), an enzyme important for viral entry into uninfected cells and release and spread of new virus once cells have been infected. The benefits with Alpivab are its ability to speed alleviation of symptoms and recovery of normal temperature in patients with uncomplicated influenza. The most common side effects are gastro-intestinal disorders, such as diarrhoea and vomiting.The full indication is: Alpivab is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated influenza in adults and children from the age of 2 years .

Comment: Seqirus, an affiliate of CSL, and a leader in influenza prevention through the supply of seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccines to global markets, will commercialize Alpivap in Europe.