New Presentation of Cyanokit Approved in Europe: Merck Serono

Cyanokit is indicated for the treatment of known or suspected cyanide poisoning. The drug is typically administered by fire and rescue crews at an emergency scene or in a hospital emergency room. It must be administered in conjunction with appropriate decontamination and supportive measures.

“Immediate administration of an emergency treatment on the scene of a fire within the first minutes after rescue is critical for the survival of a smoke inhalation victim,” said Dr. Bernhard Kirschbaum, Executive Vice President Research and Development at Merck Serono. “By simplifying the reconstitution and administration processes, we believe that the new Cyanokit 5 g presentation represents a major improvement, allowing for rapid management of cyanide poisoning, a vital asset particularly when treating more than one victim.”

Cyanide poisoning commonly results from exposure to smoke produced from burning synthetic substances or natural materials such as cotton or paper in a closed environment. Additional causes may include accidental or intentional ingestion, exposure during industrial accidents, or a terrorist attack involving cyanide. In Europe, Cyanokit is marketed by Merck Serono, with the exception of the Netherlands, Ireland, the United Kingdom and the Nordic and Baltic countries where it is marketed by its partner Swedish Orphan Biovitrum.

In the US, a Supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for the new Cyanokit presentation is currently under review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Contact
Merck Serono S.A. – Geneva 9 Chemin des Mines 1202 Genève Suisse Media relations T.: +41 22 414 36 00 U.: www.merckserono.com