Spring / Summer 2020 | Research
7
figure 1
FDA Approved Symptomatic
Therapies Since 2014
Vercise
Gocovri
Xadago
Infinity
Nuplazid
Duopa
Rytary
Northera
Nourianz
Myobloc
Inbrija
Exablate Neuro
Xeomin
Osmolex ER
Ongentys
Motor Treatments
General (motor impairment)
“Off” Time
Dyskinesia
DBS + Neuromodulation
Non-Motor Treatments
Psychosis
Orthosatatic Hypotension
Sialorrhea (excessive
salivation/drooling)
2014 2017
2020
Rachel Dolhun, MD. “Better control of
symptoms would mean better quality of life.”
Apomorphine can quickly relieve symptoms
when levodopa wears off, but currently must be
delivered via injection. Sunovion has developed
a new delivery method and option for those
who prefer it over an injection approach — a
thin-film formulation that can be placed under
the tongue. The Foundation funded early
clinical trials of the therapy by original developer
Cynapsus Therapeutics, which was acquired by
Sunovion in 2016. Advancement of this treatment
is a success of our de-risking strategy of investing
in early-stage projects to attract partners that can
push them closer to market.
More New Treatments for More
Symptoms Are on the Horizon
The crop of recently approved treatments
includes other medications (e.g., inhaled
levodopa [Inbrija] and istradefylline [Nourianz])
to ease “off” time along with treatments
for psychosis, excessive salivation/drooling
and sudden drops in blood pressure. These
therapies for non-movement aspects of
Parkinson’s are filling longstanding gaps in care
and helping patients live better with Parkinson’s.
The Foundation also has invested millions
in testing emerging technologies to help
avoid or offset injury from balance and gait
problems. Our current funded grants also
include interventions for cognitive problems,
constipation and trouble swallowing.
We’re working urgently toward cures —
treatments to slow or stop overall disease
progression and with it the many symptoms
Parkinson’s can bring. In the meantime, we won’t
stop exploring new ways to ease the many issues
that affect patients and their families every day.