Cenobamate

Interim data from the X-TOLE trial's open-label extension (OLE) showed azetukalner (XEN1101) was well-tolerated with no new safety signals in focal epilepsy patients. 275 participants (96.5%) enrolled in the OLE, with 152 treated for at least 30 months. 19.6% achieved seizure freedom for at least 36 months, higher than other antiseizure medications except cenobamate. Azetukalner's advantage includes no titration requirement, making it easier for non-specialists. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events were dizziness, coronavirus infection, and headache.

Xcopri, an anti-seizure medication for epilepsy, is not covered by Saskatchewan government. Advocates, including NDP Health Critic Vicki Mowat and neurologist Dr. Alexandra Carter, call for coverage, highlighting Xcopri's effectiveness and cost-efficiency. Negotiations for public coverage failed, but Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill express willingness to re-engage discussions through the Pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance.

Xenon Pharmaceuticals, focused on neurological disorders, advances azetukalner, its lead drug candidate for epilepsy and MDD, through late-stage trials. Key milestones include Phase III X-TOLE2 study readout in 2025 and initiation of MDD study in 2024. Analysts project blockbuster potential for azetukalner, with market estimates exceeding $1 billion for epilepsy and $700 million for MDD. Xenon's financial performance and analyst ratings remain positive, with price targets ranging from $55 to $65. The company faces risks from potential trial delays and competitive market dynamics.