Biotechnology company Clinical Data Inc., which has operations in New Haven, said Monday the Food and Drug Administration approved the major depressive disorder treatment Viibryd. Clinical Data shares surged more than 40 percent in pre-market trading, The Associated Press reports.
The Newton, Mass, company said the drug should be available in U.S. pharmacies in the second quarter. Clinical Data holds exclusive worldwide rights to the drug from Germany-based Merck KGaA.
Major depressive disorder, also called major depression, is one of the most common mental disorders in the U.S.
According to Reuters, some analysts believe that with additional approvals outside the United States Viibyrd could eventually garner annual sales in excess of $2 billion.
Shares of Clinical Data surged $6.17, or 41 percent, to $21.20 in pre-market trading.
