“Fenfluramine has demonstrated significant efficacy both in short-term controlled trials and in real-world open-label treatments carried out even for years. We can say that at least 50% of the patients who took the drug “received an extremely significant benefit, both in terms of seizure control and in terms of quality of life”. Thus Bernardo Dalla Bernardina, former professor of Child Neuropsychiatry at the University of Verona and scientific director of the Research Center for Pediatric Epilepsies at the Aoui Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Verona, at the press meeting organized by UCB to announce the Aifa gives green light to the reimbursement of fenfluramine for the treatment of Lennox – Gastaut syndrome, a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy.
How has the approval of fenfluramine changed the treatment landscape for patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?
Interview with Dr. Bernardo Dalla Bernardina: The Breakthrough of Fenfluramine in Treating Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Dalla Bernardina. With the recent approval for the reimbursement of fenfluramine for the treatment of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, could you start by explaining what this means for patients and their families?
Dr. Bernardo Dalla Bernardina: Thank you for having me. The approval of fenfluramine is a significant milestone for both patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and their families. This condition is characterized by severe seizures and often leads to substantial challenges in quality of life. Fenfluramine has shown in both controlled trials and real-world scenarios that at least 50% of patients experience remarkable improvements in seizure control and overall quality of life. The reimbursement means more patients will have access to this effective treatment, which is a huge relief for many families.
Time.news Editor: That’s encouraging news. Can you elaborate on the efficacy of fenfluramine? How does it compare to other treatment options available for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?
Dr. Bernardo Dalla Bernardina: Certainly. Fenfluramine has been demonstrated to be highly effective, particularly for patients who have not responded well to standard antiepileptic drugs. In our studies, we observed significant benefits in terms of both seizure frequency and quality of life. What sets fenfluramine apart is its long-term efficacy; while some treatments may only show short-term results, fenfluramine has proven successful in extended open-label treatments over several years. This is crucial for a condition like LGS, which requires sustained and reliable management.
Time.news Editor: With this approval, what are the implications for healthcare providers and the pharmaceutical industry?
Dr. Bernardo Dalla Bernardina: For healthcare providers, this approval reinforces the need to stay updated on emerging therapies for refractory epilepsy syndromes. It’s vital for clinicians to be aware of the benefits of fenfluramine and to discuss these options with their patients. For the pharmaceutical industry, this is a clear indicator that there is a growing demand for innovative treatments for complex neurological conditions, and companies must continue investing in research to address these needs.
Time.news Editor: What practical advice can you offer to families affected by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome who are considering fenfluramine as a treatment option?
Dr. Bernardo Dalla Bernardina: I advise families to consult closely with their neurologists. Understanding the specifics of how fenfluramine works, its potential side effects, and its interactions with other medications is essential. It’s also important for families to be proactive about monitoring their loved one’s response to the treatment. Engaging in a collaborative approach with healthcare providers can maximize the treatment benefits.
Time.news Editor: As an expert in pediatric epilepsies, how do you foresee the future of treatments for conditions like Lennox-Gastaut syndrome evolving?
Dr. Bernardo Dalla Bernardina: The future is promising. The success of fenfluramine highlights the potential for tailored treatments in complex epilepsy syndromes. We are likely to see more research focusing on genetic and personalized medicine approaches, which can allow us to understand better how different patients respond to various therapies. The goal is to refine treatment strategies and improve outcomes not just for LGS, but for all types of epilepsy.
Time.news Editor: Thank you very much, Dr. Dalla Bernardina, for your insights and expertise. This information will surely benefit many families navigating this complex condition.
Dr. Bernardo Dalla Bernardina: Thank you for having me. It’s important to share knowledge and keep systems open for discussions around these significant advancements.