Gastroenterology
Ferring US has built its foundation on the success of the infertility franchise, which now carries five major brands covering the follicular, ovulatory and luteal phases of infertility treatment. This success was followed in 2005 by the acquisition and launch of the Orthopedic business unit, and most recently the addition of the Urology franchise in 2008. For specific information on marketed products you can visit our individual therapeutic area websites.
In the coming years our growth will continue with the creation of a gastroenterology franchise to include several new product launches. Our focus is to help improve the quality of life of people suffering from long-term and life-threatening gastrointestinal problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Prevalence figures vary from source to source, but it is generally believed that approximately 500,000-600,000 people suffer from ulcerative colitis (UC) in the US, and new cases per year are estimated at a rate of 10 in 100,000. Ulcerative Colitis affects all age groups and can start at any age, but most new cases occur in young people (15 to 35 year-olds).
Ferring’s long history in the gastroenterology market began in Europe and other parts of the world where we currently sell treatments for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease in oral tablets and microgranules, as well as topical formulations (suppositories and enemas). In the US market Ferring has licensing agreements with Shire US Inc.
Ferring has also experienced success in the bowel cleansing market with the leading purgative for colonoscopy prep in both Canada and the U.K. Colonoscopies are often used to diagnose colon cancer, but are also frequently used to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease. Colorectal cancer causes approximately 655,000 deaths worldwide per year. Many colorectal cancers are thought to arise from polyps in the colon. These growths are usually benign, but some may develop into cancer over time. The majority of the time, the diagnosis of localized colon cancer is through colonoscopy. There are approximately 14 million colonoscopy procedures performed in the U.S. annually.
Through our dedication to research and focus on patient needs, Ferring Pharmaceuticals enjoys a strong reputation within the international gastroenterology community, offering effective medications for the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. As we look to the future, our commitment in the US is to establish a diverse portfolio of gastroenterology products. By doing so, Ferring US will become a credible and unique partner for physicians, patients and all stakeholders responsible for providing the best care possible for those suffering from gastrointestinal disorders.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Disorders of the gastrointestinal system are widespread and are a common reason for physician visits and medical treatment. Gastrointestinal problems can account for up to 20 % per cent of all visits to family doctors.
Diets, stress, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are just some of the more common factors contributing to many gastrointestinal problems.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
Inflammation of the inner surface (mucosa) of the GI tract is a common diagnosis of GI problems. Many people suffer from recurrent inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Ulcerative Colitis (UC), which causes frequent diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever and weight loss, as well as increased risk of developing cancer of the colon and/or rectum.
Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic disorder causing the formation of areas of inflammation and ulceration in various sections of the digestive tract. Ulcerative Colitis affects all age groups and can start at any age, but most new cases occur in young people (before age 35).
The inflammation in UC exclusively affects the superficial layer (the mucosa) of the large intestine. It almost always involves the rectum and spreads in a continuous manner from there. In a small percentage of patients, the whole of the large bowel is involved. The most common age group for UC to be diagnosed is within the 15 to 35 year-olds, with a second peak being seen in 55 to 70 year-olds. Prevalence figures vary from source to source, but it is generally believed that approximately 500,000-600,000 people suffer from UC in the US, and new cases per year are estimated at a rate of 10 in 100,000.
The course of UC varies unpredictably in severity and usually cycles between periods of active inflammation (flare-ups) and periods of low activity or even remission when the patient feels well and is largely symptom free.
Causes of IBD
Much work is being undertaken worldwide into the possible causes of inflammatory bowel diseases, but despite many theories the cause and the exact changes occurring in the body remain poorly understood. It is believed that both genetic and environmental factors impact IBD, causing an imbalance in the inflammatory processes of the gut. It is thought that viruses, bacteria, diet, stress and smoking can contribute.
The risk of colorectal cancer increases with the extent and severity of the disease, the age it started and how long the patient has had the disease.
