Ferinject (ferric carboxymaltose) approved by Health Canada for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adult and pediatric patients and iron deficiency in adult patients with heart failure – CSL Vifor

CSL Vifor announced that Health Canada has authorized Ferinject (ferric carboxymaltose) for the intravenous (IV) treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adult and pediatric patients one year of age and older when oral iron preparations are not tolerated or are ineffective, as well as for the treatment of iron deficiency in adult patients with heart failure and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II/III 1 to improve exercise capacity.

Ferinject has now received marketing authorization in 87 countries worldwide.

Research shows that rates of iron deficiency are even higher than previously reported in Canada, with the condition particularly prevalent in women of reproductive age and children.

“While iron deficiency and associated anemia are some of the most prevalent medical conditions on a global scale, it is easily diagnosed and treatable,” said Prof. Dr. Justin Ezekowitz, Director of Cardiovascular Research and Cardiologist at the University of Alberta, Canada. “The news of a new treatment option tested in clinical trials is welcomed, given that oral irons may not be able to adequately deliver the desired outcomes for Canadian patients with heart failure impacted by iron deficiency.”

Iron deficiency affects one in every two hospitalized patients with heart failure. Iron deficiency is often accompanied by reduced exercise tolerance and untreated iron deficiency may result in anemia and worsening NYHA class, with reduced quality of life and eventually increased risk of hospitalization

Marketing authorization in Canada is based on a comprehensive clinical data package and totality of evidence from CSL Vifor’s cardiology studies. In Canada, Ferinject is commercialized through CSL Behring Canada, Inc., with availability expected in the second half of 2024.