Elidel launch

Novartis launches eczema treatment Elidel (pimecrolimus 1% cream) in 15, 30, and 100 gm tubes at an AWP of $25.02 , $47.52 and $150, respectively. Elidel is priced between Schering-Plough's Elocon (mometasone furoate) and Fujiwasa's Protopic (tacrolimus). Elidel was approved by FDA Dec. 13 (1"The Pink Sheet" Dec. 17, 2001, p. 5). Novartis has a Phase III trial program in pediatric patients as young as three months, but an sNDA filing hinges on discussions with FDA concerning pediatric data...