Saskatchewan to fund treatment with AUBAGIO® for Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

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

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Nov. 1, 2014 /CNW/ - Genzyme, a sanofi company, announced today that the Saskatchewan Drug 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).

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.

"It's exciting news that Saskatchewanians with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis will now have access to a new oral choice for first-line therapy to help reduce their disease activity. This expansion of our available therapeutic options will directly benefit the many people in the province with MS. I applaud the Saskatchewan government for leading the way with this approval," says Dr. Andrew Kirk, Professor and Head of Neurology at the University of Saskatchewan.

"The MS Society is delighted Saskatchewan continues to lead the way amongst members of the Pan-Canadian Pricing Alliance in approving new MS therapies. This responsiveness by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health means MS patients in Saskatchewan have access to many types of MS therapies, including oral therapies like AUBAGIO, as first-line treatments for their MS. We know the effects of MS are unique for each individual and are encouraged that MS patients now have greater choice in the drug therapy they use. As always, we encourage all MS patients to consult with their physician to find the course of treatment most appropriate for them," says Jessica MacPherson, Director, Government Relations and Research Support, Saskatchewan Division, MS Society.

"We are very happy that Saskatchewan is the second province, after Quebec, to make AUBAGIO available to all those who are living with RRMS," said Peter Brenders, General Manager, Genzyme Canada. "We congratulate the Government of Saskatchewan on its leadership in 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 Canada

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