FDA approves Discovery Lab’s updated product specifications for SURFAXIN lucinactant

Discovery Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: DSCO), a specialty biotechnology company dedicated to advancing a new standard in respiratory critical care, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has agreed to the Company's updated product specifications for SURFAXIN^® (lucinactant) Intratracheal Suspension which was approved for the prevention of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature infants at high risk for RDS.  The Company has initiated manufacturing of SURFAXIN for its planned commercial introduction in the fourth quarter of 2013.  SURFAXIN is the first FDA-approved synthetic, peptide-containing surfactant available for the prevention of RDS in premature infants and the only approved alternative to animal-derived surfactants currently used today.

"We are pleased that the FDA has agreed with our updated product specifications and are appreciative of the process that has lead to this decision," said John G. Cooper, Chief Executive Officer of Discovery Labs. "SURFAXIN represents the first milestone in our goal of transforming the treatment of RDS and is an important medical advancement for the neonatology community and parents of preterm infants who will soon have an effective alternative to animal-derived surfactants for the prevention of RDS."

Source: Discovery Laboratories, Inc.