UCB (UCBJF) recently presented data from a study showing the effect of Neupro on cardiovascular measures in patients with restless legs syndrome (RLS).
The double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed reduction in total nocturnal systolic blood pressure (NSBP) elevations connected with periodic limb movements during sleep (PLMS) and total PLMS in patients with idiopathic moderate-to-severe RLS/Willis-Ekbom disease. 81 RLS patients were randomized to receive an optimal dose of Neupro or placebo.
Data from the study was presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Hypertension.
According to information provided by UCB, around 23 million Americans suffer from RLS.
In Jul 2012, UCB launched Neupro in the US to treat signs and symptoms of advanced stage idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD) and moderate-to-severe primary RLS. In Aug 2012, Neupro was approved in the EU for early and advanced PD as well as RLS. In Japan, it received approval in Dec 2012 for similar indications.
In 2012, Neupro recorded sales of €133 million. Currently approved products for the treatment of PD and RLS include GlaxoSmithKline's (GSK) Requip.
In Mar 2013, UCB presented data from a study wherein patients suffering from PD were transferred from an oral PD medication to Neupro. Results indicated that switching over from oral PD medications could lead to an improvement in pre-existing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.
UCB carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Currently, companies like Santarus, Inc. (SNTS) and Salix Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (SLXP) look well-positioned with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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