CSL Behring selects BioRx as an approved Berinert provider

Dec 8 2009

BioRx, a specialty pharmacy company, has been named one of a small number of approved providers of Berinert®. Berinert® is a plasma-derived concentrate of C1 esterase inhibitor (human) indicated for the treatment of acute abdominal or facial attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE) in adult and adolescent patients. CSL Behring, the manufacturer of Berinert® selected BioRx as part of their distribution network to launch this exciting new product in the United States.

BioRx will be launching a dedicated website, www.haefreedom.com, to provide information about HAE, treatment options, and related BioRx services.

HAE is a very rare, potentially life threatening genetic condition that causes episodes of swelling (edema) and fluid retention in various body parts, including the hands, feet, face, and airway. Patients who have abdominal attacks can experience episodes of severe pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting caused by swelling of the intestinal wall. Attacks that involve the face and larynx can result in airway closure, asphyxiation, and, if untreated, death.

Diagnosis of HAE requires a blood test to confirm low or abnormal levels of C1-INH. An estimated 6,000 to 10,000 people in the United Sates have HAE.

BioRx is one of a limited number of specialty pharmacies selected by CSL Behring to dispense Berinert ®, which was just recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adult and adolescent patients with acute abdominal or facial attacks of HAE. CSL Behring manufactures and sells C1-INH concentrate in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and several other countries under the trade name Berinert P®.

Mark Kestler, General Manager of BioRx, says “Recognition by CSL Behring as an approved Berinert® provider validates BioRx as a leading quality provider of specialized pharmaceutical services. We are excited to be able to offer this valuable treatment option to HAE patients.”