Biotech company Amgen Inc. said Thursday it has launched the Aranesp prefilled SureClick autoinjector to treat anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease and patients undergoing chemotherapy.


Amgen said it included three safety features to its new product. One is a safety cover that limits needle exposure before and after the injection. The device also makes two audible clicks that signify the beginning and the end of the injection. There is also a large inspection window that shows the device has delivered the entire injection.

There are now three available ways to deliver Aranesp to patients: the SureClick autoinjector, SingleJect prefilled syringes and prefilled vials.

Amgen's new SureClick device will be available in clinics, hospitals and retail pharmacies and will be offered at the same price as the other administration methods.

Amgen shares closed down 16 cents to $68.33 in trading on the Nasdaq.

The Nasdaq Biotechnology Index closed down 0.74%