Leuprorelin Implant (ALZA)

Leuprorelin is an analogue of gonadorelin with similar properties, and is launched in many markets worldwide for the treatment of prostate cancer and endometriosis. ALZA has filed for approval of a leuprorelin implant (Viadur^TM) for the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer in the US. The product uses ALZA's DUROS^TM implant technology to deliver leuprorelin continuously for up to 12 months. The DUROS^TM implant, which is about the size of a small matchstick, is an osmotically-driven, miniature pump designed to be inserted under the skin using a local anaesthetic in an outpatient setting. When placed subcutaneously in a site such as the upper arm, the implant allows continuous, steady-state delivery of drug with a variety of doses. Leuprorelin implant is being developed by ALZA under an agreement with Crescendo Pharmaceuticals Corporation. If approved, it will be the first launched product incorporating the DUROS^TM technology and the first single-treatment therapy to suppress testosterone for 12 months.