What’s new in Parkinson’s disease medications?

Azilect® reported to have potential to affect progression

On August 26, 2008 a news release issued by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., manufacturers of the drug, Azilect®, reports that the results of the ADAGIO phase 3 trial indicate that early treatment with 1 mg of Azilect supports the potential for Azilect to have an effect on the progression of Parkinson’s.

The news release was issued at the 12th Congress of European Federation of Neurological Societies in Madrid, Spain. The data have yet to be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Since 2006, Azilect® has been approved by Health Canada for treating Parkinson’s symptoms, however the only provincial drug plan that provides coverage is Quebec. The medication may be covered under private insurance plans

Stalevo now covered under Quebec drug plan

As of October 2008, Stalevo has been approved and is now available in Quebec. The Common Drug Review (CDR) has recommended that it also be listed in other provinces. The medication may be covered under private insurance plans. 

Stalevo Information Sheet English