- Expands access to much-needed iron therapy for millions of US patients
- Builds Sandoz portfolio of high-quality injectable iron therapies and sets stage for future launches
- Strengthens US supply of injectable iron sucrose
Sandoz (SIX: SDZ; OTCQX: SDZNY), the global leader in affordable medicines, today announced the US launch of its generic iron sucrose injection following recent approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)1. The product is now available for order and delivery across the United States. The launch of this iron sucrose formulation further expands the Sandoz US iron therapy portfolio.
Intravenous iron sucrose is a cornerstone therapy for iron deficiency anemia, which impacts approximately five million US patients. This includes those with chronic kidney disease (CKD stages 3-5), which puts nearly 19 million Americans at high risk for anemia2-5. It is administered at dialysis centers nationwide, providing essential iron replacement to foster red blood cell production. Iron sucrose is approved to treat all indications of the reference medicine, Venofer®*6.
“Our launch of iron sucrose proves again that we remain committed to pioneering access to more affordable medicines for patients with chronic conditions,” said Keren Haruvi, President Sandoz North America. “We are proud to offer a high-quality, reliable alternative that helps patient, clinician and supply needs in the US.”
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body does not have enough iron to make healthy red blood cells, which are essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Iron is important not only for hemoglobin production but also for maintaining a healthy immune system, muscles, skin, hair, and nails. People with chronic kidney disease, women who menstruate, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and individuals with certain gastrointestinal conditions are at higher risk for iron deficiency anemia. Symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, weakness, and light headedness7. When oral iron is not effective or cannot be absorbed, intravenous iron sucrose is often used to replenish iron stores and support the body’s production of new red blood cells7.
Sandoz iron sucrose injection was developed in partnership with RAFARM, S.A.
*Venofer® is a registered trademark of Vifor (International) Inc.