March 19th, 2012

Merck Drops Development of Oral Vernakalant for Atrial Fibrillation

Merck has discontinued its development of oral vernakalant for the long-term prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence. Cardiome Pharma, Merck’s partner in the drug, said today that the “decision was based on Merck’s assessment of the regulatory environment and projected development timeline.”

Merck and Cardiome will continue their partnership with the intravenous formulation of vernakalant, Brinavess, which is approved in 37 countries outside the U.S. for the rapid conversion of recent-onset AF.

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