Novel Once-Daily Epilepsy Treatment now Available in France

 Eisai Europe Limited announces the launch of Zebinix(R) (eslicarbazepine acetate) in France. Upon launch, this novel epilepsy drug will receive full reimbursements from the French health authorities. 
    Once-daily eslicarbazepine acetate is indicated as an adjunctive (add-on) therapy for adults with partial-onset seizures, with or without secondary generalisation (where the seizure extensively affects a patient's consciousness by spreading to both sides of the brain).[1] 
    "Whilst epilepsy can be managed with medication, a third of epilepsy patients still suffer from uncontrollable seizures after treatment, putting them at risk of poor health, reduced likelihood of employment and an increased risk of psychological comorbidities, such as depression and anxiety,[2] commented, Arnaud Biraben, Consultant Neurologist, Pontchaillou Hospital, France. "The launch of eslicarbazepine acetate in France is a welcome addition to our treatment armamentarium which may help uncontrolled patients manage their condition and see an improvement in their health-related quality of life". 
    Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting more than six million people across Europe.[3] In France, in excess of 500,000 patients suffer from the condition with an annual cost to health services estimated at more than EUR3.5 billion.[4] 
    Dr Bettina Bauer, Head of EU Epilepsy Business Unit, Eisai Europe Ltd commented; "The availability of Zebinix(R) in France provides patients with uncontrolled seizures a new option that may help to match their individual treatment needs." She added; "Eisai is committed to provide patients and their families with improved quality of life by bringing effective treatments to those that need it, as displayed by our human health care mission". 
    "The launch of Zebinix(R) is a positive step for patients in France who do not achieve adequate seizure control, commented Michaël Perrin, Director of Eisai Epilepsy franchise. Eisai is working with the regional health authorities to ensure the treatment is available as soon as possible to patients that require it the most". 
    Eslicarbazepine acetate was approved in April 2009 by the European Commission following data which showed that it reduces seizure frequency and has an overall positive efficacy and safety profile.[1,5] Eslicarbazepine acetate is already available in Albania*, Austria, Czech Republic, Cyprus*, Denmark, England, Finland, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Malta*, Norway, Portugal*, Republic of Ireland, Scotland, Sweden, Spain (co-promotion with BIAL, the developer of Zebinix (R)) and Wales. 
    *Exclusively by BIAL