Abiomed’s Newest Heart Pump Approved

FDA has approved Abiomed’s newest heart pump, the Impella 5.5 with SmartAssist, indicated for temporary ventricular support (14 days) and for treating ongoing cardiogenic shock that occurs immediately (less than 48 hours) following acute myocardial infarction or open heart surgery or in the setting of cardiomyopathy. The company says the device is intended to reduce ventricular work and to provide the circulatory support necessary to allow heart recovery and early assessment of residual myocardial function. “SmartAssist also integrates data informatics including left ventricular pressure (LVP), end-diastolic pressure (EDP) and cardiac power output (CPO),” Abiomed says.

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Guide on Biosimilar Postapproval Manufacturing Changes

FDA has released a final guidance entitled “Postapproval Manufacturing Changes to Biosimilar and Interchangeable Biosimilar Products — Questions and Answers.” The document explains how manufacturers should document and report changes to approved biosimilars, including changes involving manufacturing processes, production facilities, dosage forms and strengths. Regarding information required for postapproval manufacturing changes,