EU approves Selincro (Biotie/Lundbeck) for treatment of Alcohol Dependence

Biotie has announced that its partner H.Lundbeck A/S (Lundbeck) has received European marketing authorization from the European Commission for Selincro (nalmefene; an opioid system modulator) for the reduction of alcohol consumption in adult patients with Alcohol Dependence. The marketing authorization applies to all 27 European Union member states.

Selincro is a unique dual-acting opioid system modulator and acts on the brain�s motivational system, which is dysregulated in patients with alcohol dependence. Selincro is thought to reduce the reinforcing effects of alcohol, and thereby reduces the urge to drink alcohol.Lundbeck will provide Selincro as part of a novel treatment concept that includes continuous psychosocial support focused on the reduction of alcohol consumption and treatment adherence. It has been developed for use on an as-needed basis, with one tablet taken each day when the patient feels a risk of drinking.