Lupin and Avas Launch NaMuscla in Italy for NDM Disorder Relief

Global pharmaceutical giant Lupin Limited (Lupin) and Avas Pharmaceuticals SRL (Avas), a prominent pharmaceutical firm recognized for its proficiency in marketing branded drugs, declared the introduction of Lupin’s orphan medication NaMuscla (mexiletine) in Italy. Avas will market NaMuscla for the relief of myotonia symptoms in adults suffering from non-dystrophic myotonic (NDM) disorders. NaMuscla is the sole licensed product available for this indication.

NDM disorders represent a set of uncommon, hereditary neuromuscular conditions marked by the inability to relax muscles after voluntary contraction. NaMuscla alleviates myotonia symptoms in individuals with NDM, leading to a notable enhancement in quality of life along with various functional and clinical outcomes for patients. NaMuscla, granted orphan drug designation, obtained EU marketing authorization in December 2018.

According to the agreement, Avas will first market NaMuscla as a Class C (Tier 2), while Lupin discusses reimbursement options with AIFA (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco) for the product in Italy. This will guarantee reliable access to NaMuscla for patients in Italy, utilizing the existing supply chain that already provides for patients throughout Germany, France, Spain, Austria, Norway, Sweden, and the UK.

“Our collaboration with Avas will not only allow us to introduce the first licensed treatment for myotonia in Italy but also ensure continued access to this essential medication. This partnership reflects Lupin’s dedication to addressing unmet medical needs in rare diseases across Europe,” stated Thierry Volle, president EMEA, Lupin.