Norgine launches new hepatic encephalopathy therapy in UK

Norgine has announced the UK launch of Targaxan 550, a new treatment for overt hepatic encephalopathy developed in collaboration with Alfa Wassermann.

The drug will become the first and only treatment available in the UK for the reduction in recurrence of episodes of overt hepatic encephalopathy among adult patients, having proven its safety and efficacy in clinical trials.

Hepatic encephalopathy is a potentially life-threatening neuropsychiatric condition associated with liver disease, with symptoms ranging from subtle effects such as mood alterations and changing reaction times to severe neurological impairment or even comas.

Norgine's new drug functions by inhibiting the division of urea-deaminating bacteria, thus reducing the production of ammonia and other compounds linked to the development of the condition.

Bob Cuffe, UK general manager for Norgine, said: "We believe Targaxan 550 has the potential to change the way in which UK patients with this debilitating condition are managed."

The drug is also known as Xifaxan, Referoand Tixteller internationally and was approved by the European Commission last month.