Bayer Schering Pharma receives approval for new Qlaira indication

Bayer Schering Pharma has received European regulatory approval for its drug Qlaira to be used in a new indication as a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding.

The drug has been granted Europe-wide marketing authorisation for the new specification following approval from the Netherlands, which served as a reference member state for the decentralised procedure.

Qlaira is already sold in more than 25 European territories as an oral contraceptive and joins the intrauterine system Mirena in Bayer's portfolio of treatments for heavy menstrual bleeding.

Dr Phil Smits, head of women's healthcare at Bayer Schering Pharma, said this represents an important new option for a "serious though underreported condition".

He added: "Qlaira can contribute to satisfy a high unmet medical need by offering women an oral treatment option that can lead to significant reduction in menstrual blood loss."

Earlier this month, Bayer Schering Pharma won the Prix Galien International 2010 for Xarelto, its therapy for venous thromboembolism sufferers.