Optimer Seeks EU Approval

Luke Timmerman7/29/10

San Diego-based Optimer Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: OPTR) said today it has filed an application for approval in the European Union to start marketing fidaxomicin to treat C.difficile bacterial infections. The drug has passed a pair of pivotal clinical trials, showing that it was roughly equal to standard vancomycin therapy at curing patients initially, but the new treatment was better at preventing recurrences, which can be life-threatening. Optimer plans to seek FDA approval later in 2010.

Luke Timmerman is the National Biotech Editor of Xconomy, and the Editor of Xconomy Seattle. E-mail him at ltimmerman@xconomy.com or follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ldtimmerman.