Product Launch Details

Alkem Laboratories Limited announced the launch of NeuCeno (cenobamate), an anti-seizure medication (ASM) for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in adult patients. This represents the first launch of cenobamate in India.

Product Specifications

  • Product Name: NeuCeno (cenobamate)
  • Dosage Form: Once daily oral therapy
  • Available Strengths: 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg tablets

Medical Context and Market Need

Epilepsy is a significant healthcare burden in India with an estimated 9.4 million people living with the condition. Despite available treatments, a significant proportion of patients continue to experience uncontrolled seizures, affecting their independence, daily functioning, and overall quality of life.

Mechanism of Action

NeuCeno acts through a unique dual mechanism of action:

  • Selectively inhibits the persistent sodium current that drives repetitive neuronal firing
  • Enhances the brain's natural inhibitory signaling via positive modulation of GABA-A receptors

Clinical Efficacy

In randomized clinical studies of adults with uncontrolled focal seizures on existing anti-seizure medications:

  • Adjunctive cenobamate produced up to 78% reduction in seizure frequency
  • Up to 30% of patients achieved seizure freedom during the maintenance phase

Management Commentary

Sandeep Singh, Managing Director of Alkem Laboratories Limited, commented: "People living with epilepsy and their caregivers face significant challenges in achieving effective seizure control. Cenobamate has the potential to transform treatment outcomes towards delivering better epilepsy management. At Alkem, we believe patients deserve access to advanced treatment options that can help address unmet medical needs. With the launch of NeuCeno (cenobamate), we reaffirm our commitment to improving patient care by enabling access to an important therapeutic option and supporting healthcare professionals in making informed treatment decisions for adults living with partial-onset seizures."

Strategic Context

Alkem remains committed to advancing high-quality, affordable medicines across key therapeutic areas and supporting better patient care in India. The company has a growing portfolio of products in chronic therapies including diabetes, neurology, cardiology, dermatology, and urology.

Company Background

Alkem Laboratories Ltd. is the sixth-largest pharmaceutical company in the Indian market with:

  • 50 years of legacy in providing high-quality medicines
  • Dominant position in anti-infectives, gastrointestinal, pain management drugs, and supplements
  • 20 state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities
  • Cutting-edge research and development (R&D) centres across India and the US
  • Presence in US, Latin America, Australia, and several Asian countries