Aventis and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd announced that the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) treatment Copaxone (glatiramer acetate injection) is now available also in Europe in a pre-filled, ready-to-use syringe (PFS).

Copaxone PFS contains the same active ingredient and dose as the lyophilized form of Copaxone, but in a more convenient and easier-to-use injection form. "Copaxone has demonstrated sustained effect on both reducing relapse rate and preserving physical function. Copaxone PFS provides the same efficacy as the original presentation. The new form makes it easier for patients with MS to focus more on their lives and less on their therapy," said Laszlo Szapary, senior vice president of Aventis.

"The new pre-filled syringe is about meeting patients' needs for a treatment that is convenient, consistent and complete," said Israel Makov, president and CEO of Teva.

Copaxone PFS may be stored at room temperature for up to 7 days and will be used with a new simple-to-use autoject 2 device. The combination of the new pre-filled syringe and autoject 2 simplifies the injection process for patients and makes administration more manageable.

Copaxone is now approved in 42 countries worldwide, including the US, Canada, Australia, Israel, and all the European countries.