Leading Health and Life Sciences in Nova Scotia

Innovative Medicines Canada – Atlantic – Recognizing National Immunization Awareness Week in Atlantic Canada

April 27, 2016 Innovative Medicines Canada – Atlantic – Recognizing National Immunization Awareness Week in Atlantic Canada Released this morning: Championing immunization is everyone’s business HALIFAX, April 27, 2016 /CNW/ – On the occasion of National Immunization Awareness Week (April 24 to 30, 2016), which coincides with both World Immunization Week (a declaration by the World Health Organization) as well as Vaccination Week in the Americas (a declaration by the Pan American Health Organization), Innovative Medicines Canada is reminding Canadians that they can be champions in the fight against diseases by getting vaccinated. Organizations from around the world this week are working to increase awareness about the importance of immunization for all ages. “It’s our responsibility, as part of our Canadian community, to get the facts about vaccines,” said Russell Williams, President, Innovative Medicines Canada. “According to the World Health Organization, 2 to 3 million deaths are averted worldwide each year thanks to vaccines, but an additional 1.5 million deaths could be avoided. Our industry is focused on closing that immunization gap, and we commend the work of governments across Canada as they work towards this goal.” Since 2007, Atlantic Canada is home to the Canadian Center for Vaccinology (CCfV) located at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Established to develop, implement, and evaluate vaccine technologies and vaccines for infectious diseases that have a significant impact on Canadian and global health and to train experts in these fields. The creation of the CCfV is a collaboration of Dalhousie University, the IWK Health Centre, and Nova Scotia Health Authority. The CCfV expanded in 2009 to include the Sanofi Pasteur Vaccine Challenge unit / Clinical Research Unit, a first of its kind in Canada, is a leading edge global v! accine research centre. The funding made possible by Innovative Medicines Canada member Sanofi Pasteur. Today, more than 25 infectious diseases are vaccine-preventable – not only in children, but also in adolescents, adults and travelers. Recognized as one of the greatest achievements in public health, immunization is key to protecting Canadians and has saved more lives in Canada than any other health initiative in 50 years. However, the benefits of these innovations are limited by the degree to which the population actually gets immunized. ABOUT INNOVATIVE MEDICINES CANADA Innovative Medicines Canada is the national voice of Canada’s innovative pharmaceutical industry. We advocate for policies that enable the discovery, development and commercialization of innovative medicines and vaccines that improve the lives of all Canadians. We support our members’ commitment to being valued partners in the Canadian healthcare system.   SOURCE Innovative Medicines Canada For further information: Sarah Douglas, Media Relations, Telephone: 613-883-7250, E-mail: [email protected] ]]>

Life Sciences offers solutions for growth in Nova Scotia after 2016-17 budget release

NEWS RELEASE HALIFAX, April 21, 2016 — On Tuesday the Nova Scotia government tabled its 2016-17 Budget with a surplus of $17.1 million and a commitment to work collaboratively with industries with big potential in the province. As part of the Budget address, the province called for a collaborative approach model to boost the economy. “This government understands that we cannot solve our economic problems alone. We need to work together to create a stronger economy, a stronger Nova Scotia,..” stated the- Hon. Randy Delorey, Minister of Finance as part of Budget 2016-2017 The life sciences industry in Nova Scotia has indicated it is ready to work with government and is poised as a growth facilitator for the province’s future economic and social prosperity. Generating nearly $300 million in revenues for the province and exporting up to 90% of products, the sector offers a strong and sustainable economic strategy. “With further support from the province for the life sciences community to develop their ideas, commercialize their technologies and build links within the region and internationally we will continue to be a wealth generator for the province,” said Scott Moffitt, Managing Director of BioNova, the life science industry association. The industry has also been fostering valuable collaborative relationships with national associations such as Innovative Medicines Canada to accelerate the development of local pharmaceutical companies, as evidenced by the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding to enhance Nova Scotia’s medical technology portfolio. In recent years, the local life sciences industry has also seen a significant increase in innovation and potential coming from Nova Scotia companies. Immunovaccine Inc. is a good example of this, with a greater than $60 million market cap and a new CEO focused on industry collaborations to continue down the path of growth. The $540 million acquisition of Nova Scotia-based Ocean Nutrition Canada by Royal DSM, a global life science and material sciences company, is another example of growth in the sector. “It’s easy to imagine what more growth in this sector could lead to for Nova Scotians. We look forward to building strong links with the Government of Nova Scotia to further innovation in Nova Scotia’s life sciences sector,” said Russell Williams, President of Innovative Medicines Canada. ABOUT BIONOVA BioNova is Nova Scotia’s life sciences industry association and sector development organization. BioNova leads and supports its members as we build a successful, self-sustaining life sciences industry in Nova Scotia. By promoting the industry and its successes, building relationships both inside and outside the province and creating networking and educational opportunities BioNova aims to accelerate the commercialization success of Nova Scotia’s life sciences businesses and organizations. ABOUT INNOVATIVE MEDICINES CANADA Innovative Medicines Canada is the national voice of Canada’s innovative pharmaceutical industry. We advocate for policies that enable the discovery, development and commercialization of innovative medicines and vaccines that improve the lives of all Canadians. We support our members’ commitment to being valued partners in the Canadian healthcare system.   – 30 – For further information: Shana McRae Marketing & Communications Officer, BioNova Telephone: 902-421-5705 ext. 2 E-mail: [email protected] Sarah Douglas Media Relations, Innovative Medicines Canada Telephone: 613-883-7250 E-mail: [email protected]]]>

BioNova and Innovative Medicines Canada Collaborate on Nova Scotia Life Sciences Research

Halifax, April 19, 2016 – Today, BioNova and Innovative Medicines Canada announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the organizations to foster collaboration in Canada’s life sciences communities between the pharmaceutical sector and life sciences organizations in Nova Scotia. “This agreement will accelerate the development of pharmaceutical companies in Nova Scotia – supporting the local economy and giving Nova Scotian’s a voice for issues on a federal level,” said Scott Moffitt, Managing Director of BioNova. “We’re very pleased about this partnership and look forward to working closely with Innovative Medicines Canada.” This memorandum of understanding will allow BioNova and Innovative Medicines Canada to offer a joint membership to life sciences companies and associated stakeholders in Canada in an effort to enhance networking opportunities and develop partnerships that will lead to the discovery of the next generation of life-saving therapies. “Canada’s innovative pharmaceutical sector provides immense value to patients, to the healthcare system and to Canada’s economy as a whole,” said Russell Williams, President of Innovative Medicines Canada. “We look forward to promoting and stimulating this great, innovative work with BioNova to ensure that Nova Scotia’s life sciences economy can flourish in Canada to the benefit of all.”

About Innovative Medicines Canada

Innovative Medicines Canada is the national voice of Canada’s innovative pharmaceutical industry. We advocate for policies that enable the discovery, development and commercialization of innovative medicines and vaccines that improve the lives of all Canadians. We support our members’ commitment to being valued partners in the Canadian healthcare system.

About BioNova

BioNova is Nova Scotia’s life sciences industry association and sector development organization. BioNova leads and supports its members as we build a successful, self-sustaining life sciences industry in Nova Scotia. By promoting the industry and its successes, building relationships both inside and outside the province and creating networking and educational opportunities BioNova aims to accelerate the commercialization success of Nova Scotia’s life sciences businesses and organizations. – 30 –   For further information: Sarah Douglas Media Relations, Innovative Medicines Canada Telephone: 613-883-7250 E-mail: [email protected]   Shana McRae Marketing & Communications Officer, BioNova Telephone: 902-421-5705 ext. 2 E-mail: [email protected]  ]]>

InnoviCares Welcomes Olympic Champion Catriona Le May Doan as Ambassador

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HALIFAX, NS–(Marketwired – April 12, 2016) – Halifax-based STI Technologies Limited is proud to announce two-time Olympic gold medalist Catriona Le May Doan as their innoviCares ambassador.
Catriona was the world’s fastest woman on ice and the first Canadian to defend a gold medal at any Olympic games. Today, she shares her keys to success both on and off the ice with Canadians across the country.
To become an Olympic gold medalist, Catriona says athletes must choose a routine and training program that best suits their body type and personality. “Everyone is different and something that helps one athlete succeed doesn’t necessarily work for someone else,” says Catriona.
“You really have to explore your options and when you find a program that works for you, it’s important to stick with it — consistency is a major key to success.”
After years of pushing herself to the limit to achieve her goal, Catriona, like many athletes, now suffers from arthritis and chronic pain in her feet and lower back.
“Pain is an unfortunate symptom of high-level competition, but it certainly doesn’t have to control your life,” says Catriona. “My doctor and I chose the treatment that works best for me and I believe every Canadian should have access to a treatment plan that works best for them, regardless of cost or the drug coverage someone has.”
Today, one in every 30 Canadians — like Catriona — uses their free innoviCares card to help them save money on select, brand-name prescriptions at their local pharmacy.
There are more than 100 brands available through the innoviCares card, which is accepted at over 98 per cent of Canadian pharmacies.
“We started innoviCares with the goal of empowering Canadians to take control of their health and we’re thrilled to be helping more than 1.5 million patients access the medications prescribed by their physician,” says Tim Gillis, CEO of STI Technologies Limited. “With more than 100 brands available through innoviCares, now is the time to tell all Canadians about innoviCares.”
InnoviCares will continue to add new medications and other healthcare products to its extensive list in 2016, further supporting Canadians’ choices in managing their health.
About Catriona Le May Doan
Olympic Champion Speed Skater | Olympic Broadcaster

In any endeavour, crossing the finish line first — and repeatedly — takes incredible determination, dedication and talent. Catriona Le May Doan knows all about it. Canada’s Athlete of the year in 2002, Catriona Le May Doan is the speed skater whose world record-setting wins captivated and inspired millions of Canadians. The fastest woman on ice and the Canadian flag bearer at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games opening ceremonies, she won the gold medal in the 500 metre event at those very games, defending her 1998 Olympic 500m gold and became the first Canadian to defend a gold medal at any Olympic Games. She has broken the world record for the event 8 times, and at the 2002 games, set the Olympic record time of 37.30 seconds. She is also a 5-time World Champion. Although she has retired from the world of competitive speed skating, she is still a central figure in the sport. She served as the primary colour commentator for the CTV television broadcast of long track speed skating at the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games which earned her a Gemini for Best Sports Analyst. Catriona was co-host for CTV’s Olympic Morning at the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games. In 2016 Catriona joined Sport Calgary as the new Senior Director of Community Engagement and Marketing. In her role, Catriona will be a champion of amateur sport in Calgary, building connections with over 400 community sport organizations, and helping support and advocate for the 400,000 active amateur athletes. Le May Doan is not only a champion of sport but a talented motivational speaker as well. Articulate, engaging and fluently bilingual, she connects with audiences by discussing how to achieve personal excellence and motivating people to realize their full potential. Her achievements have landed her in the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame, the Canadian Olympic Committee Sports Hall of Fame, and was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada. Whenever she speaks, she conveys in a clear and compelling way why she is — and always will be — a champion.
About innoviCares
InnoviCares is Canada’s largest free prescription savings card, covering more than 100 brand-name medications and healthcare products from 23 Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturers.
The innoviCares card works like any drug insurance card at the pharmacy, instantly paying a portion of the cost of participating products. Funded by participating pharmaceutical manufacturers, innoviCares is easy to use and available to all Canadians at no cost.
InnoviCares delivers choice, is easy to use, and supports Canadians to achieve better health outcomes. We’re empowering Canadians to take control of their health.
More information: https://www.innovicares.ca/en
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CONTACT INFORMATION

  • Media requests may be directed to:
    Ashley MacInnis
    Communications Specialist
    STI Technologies Limited
    902.240.8648
    [email protected]

    Nick Ritcey
    NATIONAL Public Relations
    902.332.8017
    [email protected]

Appili Receives Orphan Drug Designation from FDA for ATI-1501: Treating C. difficile in Children

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HALIFAX, Nova Scotia – April 12, 2016 – Appili Therapeutics Inc., an anti-infective pharmaceutical development company, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted orphan drug designation for ATI-1501, a taste-masked reformulation of metronidazole with the potential to effectively treat Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in children.
CDI is one of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s most urgent antibiotic-resistant bacterial threats. CDI affects over half a million Canadians and Americans each year. It reoccurs in 83,000 patients and is responsible for 29,000 deaths annually. The incidence of CDI in children has been steadily increasing over recent years, and thus a taste-masked metronidazole formulation is urgently needed for this population.
“The bitter metronidazole tablet is highly unpalatable for most children, so ATI-1501 has the potential to fundamentally improve compliance rates for these patients who are in need of a safe and effective treatment for CDI,” said Kevin Sullivan, CEO of Appili Therapeutics.
The FDA Orphan Drug Act provides orphan status to new drugs that are defined as those intended for the safe and effective treatment, diagnosis, or prevention of rare diseases that affect less than 200,000 people in the United States. This orphan drug designation provides Appili with several benefits, including seven years of marketing exclusivity upon approval of ATI-1501, reduced FDA application and administration fees and tax credits for clinical research in the U.S.
“In just 3 months, we received orphan drug designation from the FDA,” continued Mr. Sullivan. “Having this quick turnaround is an indication of the high quality of the regulatory team we have built, and an important step on our path to becoming the first company to offer an approved treatment for C. difficile designed specifically for children affected by this serious infection.”
About Appili Therapeutics
Appili is dedicated to identifying, acquiring and advancing novel therapeutics in the area of infectious disease and has commenced development on two anti-infective programs, while continuing its search to acquire additional high quality anti-infective programs at all stages of development. The company plans to take its lead drug candidate, ATI-1501, a potential treatment for C. difficile infection, into clinical trials by 2017. Appili’s second product, ATI-1503, is a novel antibiotic with the potential to treat deadly infections such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. These drug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections have been identified by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) as posing the highest threat to human health. Appili is co-founded and backed by the life-science/healthcare investment bank Bloom Burton & Co. For more information visit www.AppiliTherapeutics.com.
Media Relations Contact:
Jennifer Cameron
T: 902-209-4704
E: [email protected]