Anika Therapeutics, Inc. (ANIK) has launched Orthovisc mini in the European Union. Orthovisc mini is a smaller dosage indication of Orthovisc, which has been marketed in Europe since 1996 and is used mainly for treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. The company is also initiating a post-approval clinical study of Orthovisc mini to gain additional clinical experience with regional opinion leaders who specialize in the treatment of osteoarthritis in small joints.
"The launch of Orthovisc mini is a key milestone in our goal to enhance our joint health franchise by broadening the opportunities for our existing product line," said Charles H. Sherwood, Ph.D., Anika's president and chief executive officer. "We will utilize our existing European Orthovisc distribution network for this new product, and anticipate filling initial orders before the end of the first quarter."
The multi-centre clinical study with Orthovisc mini will target the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb. Anika has previously studied the use of Orthovisc in other small joints such as the ankle and temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Headquartered in Bedford, Massachusetts., Anika Therapeutics, Inc. develops, manufactures and commercializes therapeutic products for tissue protection, healing and repair. These products are based on hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring, biocompatible polymer found throughout the body.