Novartis introduces Lucentis® in state of the art pre-filled syringe

Novartis has announced the launch of the Lucentis® (ranibizumab) pre-filled syringe (PFS) in Germany, with other markets to follow throughout 2014. The Lucentis PFS, which received European approval in October 2013, is a new way of administering Lucentis that is specifically designed for intraocular injection to enhance patient safety and convenience for the treating clinician.

“We are pleased to be able to offer a better way to accurately and safely administer Lucentis in the eye,” said David Epstein, Division Head, Novartis Pharmaceuticals. “Lucentis PFS brings convenience, safety, and the potential for improved efficiency and dose accuracy to both retinal specialists and patients.”

The Lucentis PFS has been specifically designed to reduce the risk of adverse events to patients and to enhance the treatment process in the clinic. This new injection technology offers the potential for improved safety for patients through a reduction in non-sterile preparatory steps and the inclusion of more safety features, such as a non-retractable plunger. Moreover, greater dose accuracy is possible through design features such as a smaller syringe barrel.

These features combined may equate to reduced waiting times and thereby improve the patient treatment experience.