GlaxoSmithKline announced Wednesday that the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) voted unanimously that the data support the efficacy and safety of Shingrix for the prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) in adults ages 50 and over.
FDA Advisory Committees provide non-binding recommendations for consideration by the FDA, with the final decision on approval made by the FDA.
Dr. Emmanuel Hanon, Senior Vice President and Head of Vaccines R&D for GSK said: “Shingles is a painful and potentially serious condition. The risk of developing shingles increases with age and it is estimated that up to one in three people in the United States will develop shingles. Today’s vote brings us one step closer to approval of Shingrix, which is specifically designed to overcome age-related weakening of the immune system.”
The Biologics License Application (BLA) was submitted to the FDA in October 2016.
Related: Shingles 101: Signs, symptoms and pain management
