The European Medicines Agency confirmed its previous negative opinion and adopted a final negative opinion, recommending that oral cladribine, from Serono Europe Ltd, should not be granted a marketing authorisation. Oral cladribine was intended as disease-modifying therapy in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis.
Click here for EMA statement
Thumbs down for fampridine
European Medicine’s agency gives a negative opinion for fampridine:
“The Committee adopted a negative opinion recommending that fampridine, from Biogen-Idec Ltd, should not be granted a marketing authorisation. Fampyra was intended to be used to improve the walking ability of adult patients with multiple sclerosis.”
Where to next?
Click here for EMA notification
Fingolimod licensed in Europe
The European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) recommended that: Fingolimod is indicated as single disease modifying therapy in highly active relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis for the following adult patient groups: Patients with high disease activity despite treatment with a beta-interferon. These patients may be defined as those who have failed to...
Safety and tolerability of cladribine tablets in MS
A more detailed analysis of the safety of cladribine has just been published. Unfortunately, it is too early to comment on the malignancy risk; this will require long-term follow-up and an active post-marketing surveillance programme.
Cook et al. Mult Scler. 2011 Jan 12. [Epub ahead of print]
Disclaimer: As the principal investigator on this study I have an obvious conflict of interest.
Sleep disorders and fatigue in MS: evidence for association and interaction
Fatigue is very common in MS and can be attributed to many factors. This paper reviews sleep disturbances in MS and it association with fatigue. In people with significant fatigue sleep hygiene should be on top of the management plan; without a good night’s sleep how can you expect to feel awake and full of energy.
Kaminska et al. J Neurol Sci. 2011 Jan 15. [Epub ahead of print]
Relationship between global cognitive decline and depressive symptoms in MS
Cognitive symptoms and depression are common in people with MS. A recent study shows an association between these symptoms; subjects with cognitive impairment were more likely to report low mood.
Barwick FH, Arnett PA. Clin Neuropsychol. 2011 Jan 12:1-17.
Genzyme details market potential of Alemtuzumab for MS
Wow! Let’s hope it is not too expensive for the NHS.
Click here to read the press release!