Andy Scaife, CEO of Quantum Pharma, commented: “We are excited to be making available the first product in the Mucodis(R) range. This range has the potential to make a difference for patients living with the side effects of cancer treatment commonly triggered by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The launch of Mucodis(R) and the developments within this team mark a promising new chapter for both Niche Pharmaceuticals and the Group’s expansion into regulated products, with a number of further medical device and licensed product launches anticipated during the current financial year.”
Quantum Pharma Plc (AIM:QP.), the growing, service-led niche pharmaceutical manufacturer, developer and supplier to the health and care sectors, is pleased to tell DirectorsTalk that Colonis, part of its newly formed Niche Pharmaceuticals division, has launched its in-licensed range of patented medical devices to treat some of the side effects of cancer treatment in patients.
This range initially comprises up to seven products that are used to treat the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, specifically the inflammation of different mucosal membranes of the body, including that of the mouth and rectum. The range will be marketed and sold in the UK under the Mucodis(R) brand name.
Some 330,000 patients in the UK are diagnosed with cancer every year and most suffer painful or unpleasant side effects as they progress with treatment. The Mucodis(R) range provides the NHS with prescribable products for a number of associated conditions, including mucositis, dermatitis and proctitis. Colonis has been granted an exclusive distribution licence for these products for five years, with an option to extend beyond this initial period.
The first product in the range, Mucodis(R) Oromucosal Spray for the treatment of oral mucositis, a painful inflammation of the mouth that can follow certain typical cancer treatments, is launched today, with a preventative mouthwash expected to follow later this financial year. Of the 330,000 new instances of cancer in the UK every year, approximately 132,000 (40%) patients will typically develop some degree of oral mucositis as a result of standard treatment therapies. This figure is higher in paediatric oncology patients (90% of patients), as well as in patients receiving irradiation for neck and head cancers (97% of patients). Previously there have been limited options to manage this side effect. It is anticipated that additional Mucodis(R) products will be launched in the next financial year.
To support the launch of this range of products, Quantum has a specific therapeutic sales team in place, which has been active amongst oncology specialists, nurses and pharmacists establishing demand for these products. As a result of this, the entire first manufacturing batch of Mucodis(R) Oromucosal Spray has been bought by the pharmaceutical wholesale chain to ensure access for these prescribers.
