Eisai has resubmitted its first-in-class epilepsy treatment Fycompa (perampanel) to the German Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) for reassessment of its additional therapeutic benefits. This follows the G-BA decision in February that Eisai could resubmit their anti-epileptic drug (AED) for early reassessment. The new decision is expected to be published within 6 months. Perampanel is indicated for the adjunctive treatment of partial onset seizures, with or without secondarily generalised seizures, in people with epilepsy aged 12 years and older.[1] "We are very pleased that the G-BA has approved our request for an early benefit reassessment of Fycompa," commented Gary Hendler, President & CEO, Eisai EMEA. "The clinical benefit of Fycompa has been recognised in approximately 3,000-4,000 people with epilepsy in Germany since its launch in September 2012 and our first concern throughout this process has been for them. We firmly believe that innovative treatment options are desperately needed for people with this serious condition and believe that the G-BA will reconsider its original position and not effectively deny very ill patients the clinical benefit that Fycompa offers people with partial epilepsy again." Eisai temporarily suspended perampanel from distribution in Germany (Aussetzen des Vertriebes) in June 2013 following the previous negative G-BA … Continue reading →

State Rep. Dave Schatz, R-Sullivan, opposed a bill that would legalize the use of hemp extract to treat epilepsy. Despite Schatzs vote against the bill, the legislation has passed the Senate and House and now awaits the governors signature. State Rep. Paul Curtman, R-Pacific, and State Rep. Dave Hinson, R-St. Clair, voted in favor of the bill. Schatz said the use of hemp to treat epilepsy has not been properly studied. Legalizing hemp to treat the condition before doing research is putting the cart before the horse, Schatz added. He was one of 12 representatives who opposed the bill 137 voted in favor of it in the House. There is no scientific research to say that it works, he said, adding that he is not against people taking every measure they can to treat epilepsy. If it is found that hemp is an effective treatment, he supports letting people use it for that purpose, he said. But he does not want to act recklessly by approving the use without first knowing the side effects. Hinson said he voted in favor of the bill because there have been studies to show that the treatment can reduce seizures in children and help … Continue reading →

news@dailylobo.com @ChloeHenson5 Staff and faculty may benefit from a change in the new health insurance plan that will allow companies to cover costs for care and treatment of those diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. This is the first time UNM insurance will cover autism, according to UNM Faculty Council President Richard Holder. Up until now, (autism) was not covered by the Universitys health plans, he said. Now that it will be, I think that it will make a big difference to some families. The plan was passed last month by the UNM Board of Regents and will take effect on July 1. While he has not heard from staff who have been directly affected, UNM Staff Council President Gene Henley said he has heard anecdotally that this has become a concern among some staff members. The lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism who does not have an additional diagnosis is about $1.4 million, according to a study by advocacy group Autism Speaks. For an autistic child who is affected by a secondary diagnosis, the lifetime cost could be $2.3 million. Autism is affecting an increasing number of people in the country, and Holder said he supports … Continue reading →