PD drug Xadago gets first launch, in Germany

CNS specialist Zambon and its partner, fellow Italy-based Newron Pharmaceuticals (NWRN: SIX) have announced the launch of Xadago (safinamide) in Germany for the treatment of mid- to late-stage Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Germany is the first country to see the launch of Xadago, which has been approved in the European Union as add-on therapy to a stable dose of levodopa (L-dopa) alone or in combination with other PD therapies for mid-to late-stage fluctuating patients (The Pharma Letter February 27).

Maurizio Castorina, chief executive of Zambon, said: “The launch of Xadago in Germany represents a significant milestone in Zambon’s pharmaceutical business and in particular our increased commitment to R&D innovation. The launch of Xadago is a major step forward in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, and Zambon is fully committed to invest further for the benefit of all Parkinson’s disease patients.”