Sonus gains additional European approval

The European Medicines Evaluation Agency has approved the remaining manufacturing variation in Sonus Pharmaceuticals’ European marketing authorization for EchoGen, Sonus’ ultrasound contrast agent. The EMEA approval enables Sonus to begin production of EchoGen in Europe. The Bothell, WA-based company is currently in discussions with potential marketing partners in Europe and expects to have several of these relationships in place early this year. In November, Sonus took back exclusive marketing rights to EchoGen in Europe, Latin America, Canada, the Middle East, and certain Asia Pacific countries from its previous marketing partner outside the U.S., Abbott International (SCAN 11/27/99).