FDA Approves New Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced its approval of a new drug for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. The drug Azilect (rasagiline), is a type-B (MAO-B) inhibitor that works by blocking the breakdown of dopamine, a chemical that sends information to the parts of the brain that control movement and coordination.

In an FDA press release, Dr. Steven Galson, Director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research called the approval of Azilect “a welcome development for the more than 50,000 Americans who are each year diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.”

"Parkinson's is a relentless disease with limited treatment options, and each new therapy is an important addition to the physicians' treatment options,” said Dr. Galson.

Parkinson's disease is a chronic, neurological condition which leaves its victims incapable of initiating and controlling their movements in a normal way.

Azilect, which has been available in the United Kingdom since June 2005, is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries in Tel Aviv, Israel.

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