Baxter launches HYLENEX recombinant for pediatric rehydration at the 2009 ACEP

Baxter International Inc. (NYSE: BAX) today announced the commercial launch of HYLENEX recombinant (hyaluronidase human injection) for use in pediatric rehydration at the 2009 American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) scientific assembly (Boston). HYLENEX, an enzyme, allows fluids to be administered under the skin (subcutaneously) rather than through a vein. This allows for rapid treatment initiation and delivery of intravenous (IV)-like fluid rates, which can help lead to successful rehydration of children in a less invasive manner. Additionally, data from Baxter’s Increased Flow Utilizing Subcutaneously-Enabled (INFUSE) PEDS 1 study are debuting today in the preeminent pediatric journal, Pediatrics. The study was designed to assess the efficacy, safety and clinical utility of HYLENEX recombinant-facilitated subcutaneous rehydration in mild to moderately dehydrated children ages two months to 10 years. This approach was found to be effective, easy to use and well-tolerated. Baxter licensed HYLENEX, the first and only recombinant human hyaluronidase, from Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: HALO).

The commercial launch and data publication coincide with the approaching cold/flu season, offering an alternative to IV therapy for children with dehydration, a potentially serious consequence of viral respiratory diseases including influenza and other conditions that can cause fluid loss.

“HYLENEX exemplifies Baxter’s ongoing commitment to innovation and introducing products that help to improve the treatment experience and overall standard of care – in this case for parents, patients and caregivers alike,” said Camille Farhat, general manager of Baxter Pharmaceuticals and Technologies, part of Baxter’s Medication Delivery business. “The data published today indicate that treatment facilitated by HYLENEX was considerably preferred by parents, and highly rated by clinicians, for its ability to effectively rehydrate mild to moderately dehydrated children in a much less invasive way.”

“Baxter’s launch of HYLENEX for use in pediatric hydration is an important achievement for our alliance,” said Jonathan Lim, M.D., president and CEO of Halozyme. “We look forward to continuing to partner with Baxter to pursue HYLENEX use in additional patient populations as the benefits of subcutaneous administration of fluids and medications are increasingly realized.”

Baxter manufactures and markets HYLENEX and continues to build clinical evidence to support its use. Baxter licensed the HYLENEX technology from Halozyme, which discovered and completed development work to secure U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. As HYLENEX is being introduced into the pediatric rehydration market, Baxter continues to study its use in other areas.

Source: Baxter International Inc.