Abbott Laboratories
XIENCE V
2008 Winner

This year Abbott brought to market a second generation Drug Eluting Stent, the XIENCE V. A stent is a tiny balloon that holds open a clogged artery. A drug eluting stent, prevents the arteries that it opens from reclosing. One of only four FDA approved, the XIENCE V has proven to be far superior to its competitors in all clinical trials. Abbott scientists increased the efficacy and safety of this drug eluting stent by rethinking structure, delivery system, the drug that is used, and the concentration of the drug. The XIENCE V represents a significant advance in the treatment of coronary artery disease. In clinical data from more than 1,300 people, patients have had a 45% lower risk of experiencing a major adverse heart-related event when compared to the first generation stent. The XIENCE V earned a 20% market share in Europe after only 18 months, and anticipates a 25-35% market share within 12 months of being introduced in the United States.