MHRA approves Sucampo’s AMITIZA to treat chronic idiopathic constipation in the U.K.

Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ("Sucampo") (NASDAQ: SCMP) today announced that it has received approval from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency for AMITIZA® (lubiprostone) 24 mcg twice daily for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and associated symptoms in adults, when response to diet and other non-pharmacological measures (e.g., educational measures, physical activity) are inappropriate.

"The approval of AMITIZA in the U.K. is an important step in Sucampo's comprehensive initiative to increase the global reach of AMITIZA. This regulatory milestone follows closely on the approval of AMITIZA in Japan, making AMITIZA the only drug approved for chronic constipation-related indications internationally, inclusive of the United States, Japan, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. We look forward to expanding the AMITIZA franchise into additional indications, such as opioid induced constipation, and geographic locations so that more patients can access this breakthrough medication," commented Ryuji Ueno, M.D., Ph.D., Ph.D., Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Sucampo.