Bausch Health, Canada Inc., a subsidiary of Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE: BHC)(TSX: BHC), announced today the successful completion of negotiations with the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA), resulting in a Letter of Intent (LOI) for PrOKEDI® (Risperidone extended-release injectable suspension) 75mg and 100mg. This long-acting injectable antipsychotic is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults.
Key Milestone for Public Coverage
The issuance of this LOI represents a significant step toward securing public drug plan coverage and improving patient access to PrOKEDI® across Canada. Bausch Health is committed to collaborating with federal, provincial, and territorial public drug plans to finalize Product Listing Agreements, aiming to ensure timely and equitable access for Canadians living with schizophrenia.
Product Features
PrOKEDI® is designed to achieve rapid attainment of clinically relevant risperidone plasma concentrations, followed by sustained release over the four-week dosing interval. Notably, it does not require oral supplementation or a loading dose, simplifying treatment initiation.
Statements from Stakeholders
“We are very pleased to have reached agreement with the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance on terms that will help expand access to PrOKEDI® for people living with schizophrenia through public drug plans,” said Amy Cairns, General Manager of Bausch Health, Canada Inc. “This milestone brings us closer to supporting patients, their families, and caregivers with new treatment options, and we look forward to quickly finalizing agreements so Canadians can benefit as soon as possible.”
Dr. Howard Margolese, MD, CM, MSc, FRCPC, President of Early Psychosis Intervention Canada, commented: “We welcome the Letter of Intent between Bausch Health, Canada Inc. and pCPA, which will advance access to PrOKEDI® and provide people living with schizophrenia with an important new treatment option.”
Dave Gallson, National Executive Director of Mood Disorders Society of Canada, added: “It is very encouraging to see progress toward improved access to medications for Canadians living with schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a life-changing illness that can profoundly affect daily functioning, independence, and quality of life, making timely access to additional treatment options critical to helping people living with schizophrenia lead more stable, fulfilling lives.”
About Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe psychiatric disorder that typically emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood, affecting approximately 1% of the population. The illness is characterized by episodes of psychosis, loss of contact with reality, as well as emotional and cognitive symptoms. It impacts how a person thinks, feels, behaves, and relates to others, often impairing functioning, relationships, employment, and quality of life.
