29 April 2005
Pfizer New Zealand Response To Medsafe Announcement
Pfizer New Zealand Ltd welcomes the announcement by Medsafe that it has revised its earlier advice, and will keep the
company’s COX-2 inhibitor arthritis medication, Celebrex, on the market, Pfizer New Zealand General Manager Mark Crotty
said.
As part of the COX-2 review Pfizer presented Medsafe with considerable literature and information on studies regarding
the safety of Celebrex, involving tens of thousands of patients over several years.
“I am sure that patients and medical practitioners will be relieved that Medsafe has taken on board the evidence
presented to them, and that Celebrex and other Coxibs will remain available.”
“Pfizer advises patients who were previously taking Celebrex to now visit their GP to discuss their options.”
“However, despite welcoming the decision, Pfizer disagrees with some of Medsafe’s proposed new prescribing guidelines
for Celebrex, which may restrict patient access to the product,” Mark Crotty said
"Celebrex is an important treatment option for all patients suffering the pain associated with arthritis, in particular
for those that are unable to tolerate alternative therapies.”
“Pfizer hopes to work with Medsafe to bring the proposed prescribing guidelines in line with other regulatory guidelines
recommendations, such as the EMEA, the European Regulatory Agency.”
“Pfizer will enter negotiations with Medsafe to ensure the proposed new prescribing guidelines reflect the evidence
available for Celebrex, and that New Zealanders continue to have access to this medication,” Mark Crotty said.
ENDS