UCB gains CE Mark for ava Connect, a first-in-class electromechanical device for use with biologic treatment in rheumatology and dermatology.

UCB, announced that its first-in-class electromechanical injection device, ava Connect, has received its Declaration of Conformity (CE) Mark. The CE Mark indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). The ava Connect e-device is part of a portfolio of Cimzia self-injection devices that includes the Cimzia pre-filled syringe and the AutoClicks pre-filled pen. The portfolio aims to provide to HCPs and patients the choice to identify together the right device for the unmet patient needs and hence to help improve patient self-injection experience, help increase adherence and potentially improve clinical outcomes. The ava Connect and disposable dose-dispenser cartridge are used for self-injecting Cimzia (certolizumab pegol), an anti-TNF therapy used to treat adults with rheumatoid arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis . It is the first reusable device of its kind available for use with biologic treatment in rheumatology and dermatology in Europe. To accompany ava Connect and further support patients, UCB has also developed CimplyMe, a companion mobile application. Both are part of UCB’s mission to transform the way patient support is delivered and accelerate better outcomes for people living with severe diseases as part of its digital business transformation. The device has a hidden needle and non-slip hand grip to assist patients with dexterity issues. The large start/pause button and injection speed choice give patients control over their injections. The information screen allows patients to access step-by-step instructions, confirms injection completion and provides injection date notifications. Studies have demonstrated that patients find the e-device easy to use and are satisfied with their self-injection experience.. The ava Connect e-device also logs injection dates, allowing it to record objectively patient adherence, which can be shared with clinicians. Skin sensors automatically stop an injection if skin contact is lost and the needle is retracted within the device. After re-positioning, the injection can continue, preventing medication waste and helping to ensure the patient receives the full dose. Safety features ensure that the medication cartridge is automatically checked for drug identity, expiry status, and use status before an injection is given. . CimplyMe, the companion mobile application for ava Connect, enables a treatment experience for patients that takes a holistic approach to chronic disease management. By using CimplyMe with ava Connect, patients will be able to access their injection data, disease management and treatment information, and track and monitor their disease symptoms, as well as receive injection reminders. The ava Connect device can be paired with CimplyMe via a smartphone Bluetooth..