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July 9, 2021Bridion Indication Expanded to Include Pediatric Patients
July 2, 2021 – The U.S. FDA has approved an expanded indication for Merck's Bridion® (sugammadex), which is used to reverse neuromuscular blockade induced by rocuronium bromide and vecuronium bromide. The product is now indicated for patients at least two years of age who are undergoing surgery. Previously, Bridion was approved for use only in adults. It first received FDA approval in 2015.
A neuromuscular blockade is induced by potent muscle relaxers called neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) to prevent muscle movement. NMBAs are used for a variety of medical purposes, such as keeping muscles still during surgery and facilitating intubation and mechanical ventilation. Reversal agents are often used in surgical settings to improve recovery time post NMBA administration and reduce the risk of adverse effects from NMBA use.
In a clinical study, pediatric patients given Bridion had a statistically significant faster recovery time compared to patients given neostigmine, a current standard of care. Recommended dosing is based on individual patient factors such as the patient’s weight and response to Bridion.