Eisai Europe Limited a European subsidiary of Eisai Co, Ltd entered into a license and co-promotion agreement with Bial - Portela & CA, SA, which gives Eisai Europe Ltd rights to sell Bial's anti-epileptic drug Zebinix (eslicarbazepine acetate) in Europe.
Zebinix is a novel anti-epileptic drug which is currently being developed by Bial. It is believed to exert its antiepileptic effect by regulating the activity of sodium channels. Study data suggest that once a day Zebinix not only reduces seizure frequency significantly, but also improves the quality of life of patients and their depressive symptoms. Zebinix was submitted to the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) by Bial in March 2008 and is now under review by the EMEA for approval for adjunctive therapy in adults with partial-onset seizures.
Approval is anticipated in 1Q fiscal year 2009. Among central nervous system diseases, epilepsy has a high prevalence amongst central nervous system diseases and affects about 3.4 million people in Europe.
The ultimate objective of pharmacological treatment of epilepsy is to eliminate seizures for patients, but there are many patients with epilepsy whose condition is difficult to treat with existing anti-epileptic drug for seizure control. The impact of seizures on patients' quality of life and also on development of the depressive symptoms should not be underestimated.
This agreement allows Eisai to bring a new treatment option for patients with epilepsy in Europe, adding Zebinix to its already marketed epilepsy treatment such as Zonegran and Inovelon. Eisai will remain committed to make further contributions in addressing the diversified needs of and improving benefits to patients with epilepsy and their families.