UCB: Keppra XR can play an important role in epilepsy

UCB has said that Keppra XR (levetiracetam extended release tablets) can play a vital role in the treatment of patients with epilepsy.

The company said the compound offers significant reductions in partial onset seizures with proven tolerability and once-daily dosing in patients aged 16 and over.

It added the drug has a “trusted heritage”, first being approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 1999 and has since become a leading antiepileptic drug.

UCB noted that the goal of treatment with such compounds is freedom from seizures with minimal side effects, with a significant percentage of epilepsy not achieving this goal with existing drugs.

Dr Jukka Petola of the department of neurology at Tampere University in Finland said there is solid clinical trial data supporting the efficacy and tolerability of Keppra.

Troy Cox, senior vice-president of UCB and president of central nervous system operations at the company, said: “This is one of many milestones at UCB to develop new treatment options for people with epilepsy.”

He added that Keppra offers a method for patients to simplify their treatment and another chance of achieving the goal of seizure control.

In June 2008, UCB said Keppra had received approval for paediatric exclusivity, with its patent in this indications extended from July 2008 to January 2009.