UCB’s new drug authorised for epilepsy treatment in UK

UCB’s Briviact (brivaracetam) has been authorised as an add-on treatment for partial onset seizures (POS) in adults with epilepsy and is now available on the NHS

In an international Phase III study of 768 patients uncontrolled on their previous medication, at 50mg dose twice daily against placebo, Brivaracetam was shown to give significant seizure freedom compared with the patients’ usual medication.

Mark Manford, consultant neurologist at Bedford and Addenbrookes Hospitals said: “Finding the right combination of medicines for many epilepsy patients can be a long journey, during which time the patient may continue to suffer seizures and living a normal life is very difficult. 

“As a neurologist working with patients whose seizures have not yet been brought under control, I welcome the possibility that a new medicine may be able to contribute to the tools available to help my patients.”

Simon Wigglesworth, deputy chief executive at Epilepsy Action, said: “It is always encouraging to see the creation of new medicines for people with epilepsy. Brivaracetam could be an effective treatment for those people with epilepsy who have so far struggled to become seizure free.”

John-Kenneth Sake, head medical affairs central nervous system Europe, UCB said: “We are delighted to offer an alternative treatment to epilepsy patients who are having difficulties in controlling their seizures.

“UCB has been committed to the management of epilepsy, working very closely with patients through all stages of development to ensure a better understanding of the unmet needs of those suffering from this severe and life-changing condition.

“We hope that the launch of brivaracetam will help many epilepsy patients in the UK and across Europe.”

Brivaracetam was granted European Medicines Agency (EMA) authorisation for use within Europe and the UK on 14th January 2016, specifically for the treatment of POS, with or without generalised seizures.