Ontario funds AUBAGIO® for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis

Once-daily oral medication to be reimbursed for first-line use

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Nov. 20, 2014 /CNW/ - Genzyme, a sanofi company, announced today that the Ontario Public Drug Benefit Program has included AUBAGIO® (teriflunomide) 14 mg on the provincial drug formulary as a first-line oral agent for people in the province living with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) under its exceptional access program (EAP). A link to the updated EAP reimbursement criteria for frequently requested drugs can be found here:  http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/drugs/pdf/frequently_requested_drugs.pdf.

AUBAGIO is used as monotherapy for the treatment of RRMS to reduce the frequency of clinical exacerbations and to delay the accumulation of physical disability.

"Finally, Ontario patients will have access to what is proving to be the simplest, safest and most consistently effective oral medication for the treatment of relapsing MS," said Dr. Mark S. Freedman, Professor of Neurology at the University of Ottawa.

Dr. Paul O'Connor, Director, MS Clinic and MS Research at St. Michael's Hospital, added: "I am pleased that AUBAGIO has gained an Ontario listing as it provides another reasonably safe and effective treatment choice for our MS patients."

"We are pleased that the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care remains responsive with their coverage of new treatments for those living with multiple sclerosis in our province," said Sylvia Leonard, President, Ontario and Nunavut Division and Vice President, National Client Services. "This responsiveness means Ontarians living with MS have greater access and more choice when it comes to first-line treatments – including oral therapies – to manage the effects of their disease. For individuals with MS who are interested in exploring treatment options, we encourage them to consult with their health care team to find the course that is most appropriate for them."

"We congratulate the Government of Ontario for making AUBAGIO once-a-day available to people in the province suffering with multiple sclerosis. In doing so, Ontario becomes the third province in Canada to grant access to this novel therapy," said Peter Brenders, General Manager, Genzyme Canada. "We applaud the Government of Ontario for recognizing the value brought by this important new treatment, not only as an oral alternative to injectables, but as a first-line agent for newly diagnosed patients."

As part of its commitment to those living with MS, Genzyme has developed the MS One to One™ program which offers comprehensive information services and ongoing education, as well as reimbursement navigation. Staffed by dedicated MS nurses and highly trained representatives, MS One to One provides support for individuals living with MS, their healthcare providers, family and loved ones.

About MS in Canada
With 100,000 Canadians living with MS and three people newly diagnosed every day, Canada has one of the highest prevalence rates in the world. As most people are diagnosed with relapsing MS in their twenties and thirties, MS is the most common neurological disease affecting young adults in Canada.

About AUBAGIO® (Teriflunomide)
Approved in Canada in November 2013, AUBAGIO is an immunomodulator with anti-inflammatory properties. Although the exact mechanism of action for AUBAGIO is not fully understood, it may involve a reduction in the number of activated lymphocytes in the central nervous system (CNS). AUBAGIO is supported by one of the largest clinical programs of any MS therapy, with more than 5,000 trial participants in 36 countries. Some patients in extension trials have been treated for up to 10 years and are still benefitting from the treatment.

About Genzyme, a Sanofi Company
Genzyme has pioneered the development and delivery of transformative therapies for patients affected by rare and debilitating diseases for over 30 years. We accomplish our goals through world-class research and with the compassion and commitment of our employees. With a focus on rare diseases and multiple sclerosis, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the patients and families we serve. That goal guides and inspires us every day. Genzyme's portfolio of transformative therapies, which are marketed in countries around the world, represents groundbreaking and life-saving advances in medicine. As a Sanofi company, Genzyme benefits from the reach and resources of one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies, with a shared commitment to improving the lives of patients. Learn more at www.genzyme.ca. 

About sanofi
sanofi, a global and diversified healthcare leader, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions focused on patients' needs. sanofi has core strengths in the field of healthcare with seven growth platforms: diabetes solutions, human vaccines, innovative drugs, consumer healthcare, emerging markets, animal health and the new Genzyme. sanofi is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: SAN) and in New York (NYSE: SNY).

Genzyme® and AUBAGIO® are registered trademarks of Genzyme Corporation. All rights reserved.

SOURCE: Genzyme

Media Contacts: Noëlle-Dominique Willems, Director Government Affairs and Market Access, Genzyme Canada, [phone], [email protected]; Jennifer Dolan, Cohn & Wolfe, [phone], [email protected]