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Merck discontinues development of oral vernakalant
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Cardiome Pharma Corp. announced today that Merck has decided to discontinue further development of the oral formulation of vernakalant, a maintenance therapy for the long-term prevention of atrial fibrillation recurrence.
Although Merck is discontinuing development of vernakalant, the company will continue to support the IV formulation of vernakalant, which is marketed in the European Union and Latin America under the trade name Brinavess. The drug is approved for the rapid conversion of recent onset AF to sinus rhythm in adults in 37 countries. Merck plans to expand the commercialization of vernakalant IV throughout the year into new markets and anticipates launching the product in approximately 30 additional countries in 2012.
“It is our understanding that vernakalant oral has continued to have a safe and effective profile as demonstrated by studies conducted since the product was licensed to Merck. We are extremely disappointed with the decision Merck has made,” Doug Janzen, president and CEO at Cardiome, said in a press release. “However, we look forward to continuing work with Merck on the worldwide development and commercialization of vernakalant IV.”