Canada Approves Shire’s Elaprase

Shire said Thursday Health Canada approved Elaprase for treating Hunter syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that can be life-threatening.

Elaprase, an enzyme replacement therapy that is given as weekly infusions, has previously been approved in the United States and Europe.

Health Canada’s approval of Elaprase is another important step in bringing this much-needed treatment to Hunter syndrome patients around the world, said Matthew Emmens, Shire’s chief executive officer.

Approximately 291 patients worldwide are being treated with Elaprase, which replaces the lysosomal enzyme iduronate-2-sulfatase. Hunter syndrome patients have insufficient levels of this enzyme, which can lead to organ malfunction.

Shire estimates there are about 2,000 Hunter syndrome patients worldwide in areas where reimbursement may be possible.