FDA approves Fintepla to treat Dravet syndrome.- Zogenix

Zogenix, Inc. announced that the FDA has approved Fintepla (fenfluramine) oral solution, CIV for the treatment of seizures associated with Dravet syndrome in patients 2 years of age and older. Fintepla will be launched through a restricted distribution program, called the Fintepla Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Program, and is expected to be available through Zogenix’s specialty pharmacy partner by the end of July.

The FDA’s approval of Fintepla in Dravet syndrome was based on data from two randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled Phase III clinical trials, published in The Lancet and JAMA Neurology, and safety data from an open-label extension trial in which many patients received Fintepla for up to three years. When added to existing treatment regimens, Fintrepla significantly reduced the monthly convulsive seizure frequency compared to placebo in study patients whose seizures were not adequately controlled on one or more antiepileptic drugs. In addition, most study patients responded to treatment with Fintepla within three to four weeks and effects remained consistent over the treatment period..

Dravet syndrome is a rare childhood-onset epilepsy marked by frequent debilitating seizures, lifelong developmental and motor impairments, and an increased risk of sudden death. Despite existing therapies, there remains a great unmet need in Dravet syndrome to reduce convulsive seizures that can lead to medical emergencies, hospitalizations, and SUDEP (sudden unexpected death in epilepsy). The severity and unpredictability of the disease, coupled with around-the-clock concern for the diagnosed child’s well-being, can present significant emotional and logistical challenges for all members of the family..

See- The Lancet, Volume 394, Issue 10216, P2243-2254, December 21, 2019.

JAMA Neurol. 2020 Mar; 77(3): 300–308.