Sandoz has launched its recombinant granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) Zarzio (filgrastim) in the UK.
Zarzio is approved as a treatment for neutropenia (low white blood cell count) associated with chemotherapy treatment or advanced HIV infection and the mobilisation of peripheral blood progenitor cells.
Zarzio has been shown to have an efficacy and safety profile comparable with Neupogen, currently the most widely prescribed treatment, but is 10% less expensive.
It is the only filgrastim preparation to be supplied with a novel needle safety device that contributes significantly to protecting health professionals against needlestick injuries.
Paul Tredwell, Head of Biopharmaceuticals, Sandoz Ltd, said: “Zarzio will be the third biosimilar product launched by Sandoz in the UK and reinforces Sandoz as the pioneer in this field and the largest producer of approved biosimilar products in the UK. As a division of Novartis, we have access to a global network of modern manufacturing facilities – including in Austria, where this product is manufactured.”
The treatment of neutropenia is estimated to cost the NHS £60 million annually. Sandoz predicts that Zarzio could save the NHS an estimated £1.5 million each year – money that could be reinvested in other areas of unmet clinical need in the NHS.