Repatha gains expanded indication in Europe

The European Commission (EC) has approved a new indication in the Repatha(evolocumab) label for adults with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (myocardial infarction, stroke or peripheral arterial disease) to reduce cardiovascular risk by lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels.

With the expanded label now in place, the drug’s marketer, Amgen (Nasdaq: AMGN), is working with payers in Europe to remove prescribing barriers and expand access in order to reach patients with established cardiovascular disease who are at risk of another event.

Amgen’s shares edged up 1.6% to $173.80 on the news.