Novo Nordisk receives EU approval for room-temperature Norditropin

Novo Nordisk has announced that its growth hormone therapy Norditropin 15 mg has received European approval for a room-temperature stable formulation that will help to improve patient adherence.

The drug has been granted a label update, allowing it to be left at a temperature of up to 25 degrees C after initial use for up to 21 days, joining Norditropin 5 mg and 10 mg as the therapy of its kind with this storage flexibility.

Sufferers of conditions such as growth hormone deficiency have been shown in studies to find storage and refrigeration a significant burden, especially when they are away from home or travelling, with the issue often causing patients to miss doses.

Dianne Kremidas, lead author of the study and executive director of US healthcare charity Magic Foundation, said: "Any product that can provide greater convenience and reduce the burden of storage and administration is a huge benefit to patients."

Last month, the company announced the international launch of a new pre-filled syringe offering for its haemophilia therapy NovoSeven, with the aim of further increasing convenience for patients receiving treatment.