Marketing approval has been secured for a new formulation of the platinum-based compound Eloxatin.

Eloxatin (oxaliplatin) is commonly used for the first and second line treatment of colorectal cancer.

Developed by the drug firms Debiopharm and sanofi-aventis, Eloxatin is available in a preservative-free, ready-for-use injection solution.

"We are happy to have worked with sanofi-aventis to be able to offer health care providers a more convenient form of Eloxatin that has benefited many patients around the world," said Debiopharm CEO and president, Rolland-Yves Mauvernay.

"We strive to continue to look for ways to further innovate and improve the standard of care to patients."

Eloxatin is set to be made available in more than 60 countries, with the drug underlining the prominent role platinum-based drugs play in the treatment of cancer.