FDA OKs expanded use of Baraclude

PRINCETON, N.J. The Food and Drug Administration has approved an additional use for a hepatitis drug.

Bristol-Myers Squibb announced Monday the approval of Baraclude (entecavir) as a treatment for chronic hepatitis B in adults with decompensated liver disease. The drug already is approved for adults with evidence of active viral replication.

“This additional indication for Baraclude is important news as it is now proven to be an effective treatment option for physicians to help in managing chronic hepatitis B patients with decompensated liver disease,” University of Hawaii professor of medicine Naoky Tsai said.