EU agency backs use of Novartis bone drug in men

LONDON (Reuters) - The European Medicines Agency has recommended using Novartis AG's (NOVN.VX) bone drug Aclasta in men at risk of bone fracture as well as women, the London-based watchdog said on Friday.

Aclasta is currently indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women at increased risk of fracture and treatment of Paget's disease of the bone. The new use would include men at increased risk of fracture.

Recommendations for marketing approval by the agency's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) are normally endorsed by the European Commission within a couple of months.

(Reporting by Ben Hirschler)