Bial has introduced a new sublingual formulation of apomorphine in the UK, offering a fresh treatment option for adults with Parkinson’s disease who experience intermittent OFF episodes that are not adequately controlled by oral medication.
Around 166,000 people in the UK are estimated to live with Parkinson’s, many of whom experience OFF periods when levodopa becomes insufficient during the day. These episodes can cause the return of symptoms such as stiffness, tremors and difficulty moving, affecting independence and quality of life. Rescue therapies that act quickly are therefore considered an important complement to standard treatment.
Tom Foltynie, Consultant Neurologist and Professor of Neurology at the National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, said: “Motor fluctuations are a major concern for patients as Parkinson’s progresses. Oral doses of Levodopa can take an hour before they start to take effect, and some doses fail completely because of slow stomach emptying or competition for absorption from dietary protein. Identifying other mechanisms of administration for dopaminergic therapies is therefore of major importance and we look forward to assessing the benefits of sublingual apomorphine in our PD patients experiencing this problem.”
Camille Carroll, Consultant Neurologist and Professor of Clinical Neuroscience at the Translational and Clinical Research Institute at Newcastle and Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, said: “I am delighted to see Kynmobi becoming available as another therapeutic option in the UK for Parkinson’s disease. It is by having a breadth of therapies to select from that we, as clinicians, are able to provide care personalised to the requirements and preferences of patients. It is particularly pleasing to see a new formulation coming through to market based on trials that UK sites helped to deliver. By actively engaging with research opportunities and supporting trial delivery we can all ensure that people with Parkinson’s continue to benefit from innovative therapies.”
The sublingual film avoids first-pass metabolism and is designed to deliver rapid symptom relief. Its efficacy and safety were demonstrated in two phase 3 studies, including a double-blind placebo-controlled trial and an open-label crossover study comparing it with subcutaneous apomorphine.
Magarete Ruiz, Country Manager of Bial in the United Kingdom, said: “At Bial, our commitment to people living with Parkinson’s is unwavering. OFF episodes can affect daily life significantly, turning everyday moments into real challenges. We are delighted to offer a treatment option that helps patients and healthcare professionals manage symptoms as difficult and disabling as OFF episodes can be. Bringing this medicine to UK patients – the fifth country to do so – highlights Bial’s ongoing dedication to Parkinson’s patients and marks an important step in the company’s ambition, aiming to be a reference and a top partner in neurology and Parkinson’s Disease in Europe.”
