Emisphere Technologies announced that Novartis Pharma AG has finished recruitment for a multi-center phase-III study exploring the safety and efficacy of Salmon Calcitonin and Emisphere's proprietary Eligen Technology in the treatment of vertebral fractures in postmenopausal women aged 60-80 with osteoporosis. The last of 4,500 plus patients were recruited in the final week of June, and the three-year study will be conducted in North and South America, Europe and Asia.

Osteoporosis is a disease associated with a gradual thinning and weakening of the bones, occurring most frequently in women after menopause. Thinner and weaker bones are increasingly susceptible to fractures. Untreated postmenopausal osteoporosis can lead to chronic back pain, disabling fractures, and lost mobility.

"This phase-III study provides yet another application of our Eligen Technology in the fight against osteoporosis. Safe, effective and rapid treatment will make a difference in the lives of millions of American women who are afflicted with the disease," said Michael V Novinski, president and chief executive officer of Emisphere.

Emisphere Technologies is a biopharmaceutical company that focuses on a unique and improved delivery of therapeutic molecules using its Eligen Technology. These molecules and compounds could be currently available or in development.