Health Canada accepts Cipher tramadol filing

Cipher Pharmaceuticals’ (TSX:DND) new drug submission to Health Canada for cip-tramadol ER, its extended-release formulation of tramadol, has been accepted for review. Cipher expects the review to be completed by early 2011.

“The Canadian market for tramadol is strong and growing, with sales of approximately $50 million last year, a 30 per cent increase over the prior year,” CEO Larry Andrews said in a statement. “With a fast absorption profile, no food effect, and 24-hour pain coverage, we believe our product would provide an attractive treatment option for moderately severe pain.”

The submission is consistent with Cipher’s plans to target additional markets for its three existing products.