Self-administration for MS patients

Merck’s new device RebiDose is the single use pre-filled pen for the self-administration of Rebif (interferon beta-1a), a disease-modifying drug used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).

“We are pleased to extend our range of devices with RebiDose to meet the needs of patients looking for simple and minimum injection preparation,” said Roberto Gradnik, head of global business unit neurodegenerative diseases at the Merck Serono division. “The introduction of RebiDose, alongside RebiSmart, which was launched last year, underscores our commitment to improve the treatment convenience of multiple sclerosis patients, by offering them different options to suit their individual injection needs.”

RebiDose was specifically designed to provide MS patients with a quick and simple device. This pre-filled injection device may also be ideal for patients who are traveling. RebiDose used with Rebif will be available in a monthly pack in two different doses (22 micrograms and 44 micrograms) and in a titration pack including two different doses (8.8 micrograms and 22 micrograms).

RebiDose has been approved in the EU and in Australia. It will be launched on a country-by-country basis, with first launches planned by the end of the year.

The results of the RebiDose user trial showed that the majority of subjects found the device easy to use, reliable and convenient with a 0.4 percent error rate. 72 percent of study participants indicated that they would continue using RebiDose if it became available.

The RebiDose user trial data were presented at the 26th Congress of the European Committee for the Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) held in Gothenburg, Sweden, from October 13-16, 2010.