Neurizon Therapeutics Limited (ASX: NUZ & NUZOA) has announced a positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for Orphan Medicinal Product Designation (OMPD) for its lead drug candidate, NUZ-001, in the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The European Commission is expected to issue the official decision on the Orphan Designation in December. This designation could significantly impact the treatment landscape for ALS, a neurodegenerative disease with limited therapeutic options.
Benefits of Orphan Medicinal Product Designation
The OMPD will provide Neurizon with several incentives, including reduced regulatory fees, free protocol assistance, and 10 years of market exclusivity in the European Union (EU). This exclusivity prevents the EMA and EU Member States from accepting marketing authorization applications for similar medicinal products targeting the same therapeutic indication during the exclusivity period. According to Neurizon, the prevalence of ALS in the EU is double that of the United States.
Clinical Development of NUZ-001
NUZ-001 is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2/3 clinical study as part of the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial, with patient enrollment anticipated to commence in early H1 CY2025. The study protocol is designed to potentially support early regulatory approval.
Management Commentary
"Receiving a positive opinion from the EMA for Orphan Medicinal Product Designation is a critical milestone for Neurizon," said Dr. Michael Thurn, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Neurizon. "With the OMPD, along with the Orphan Drug Designation from the United States Food and Drug Administration, we have secured market exclusivity for NUZ-001 across the world's key markets for the treatment of ALS. This important recognition highlights the significant potential of NUZ-001 to provide a meaningful therapeutic option for patients with ALS while building the commercial value of this promising candidate."
About Neurizon Therapeutics
Neurizon Therapeutics Limited is focused on developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, with NUZ-001 as its lead drug candidate for ALS, the most common form of motor neurone disease. The company aims to accelerate access to effective ALS treatments and explore NUZ-001's potential for broader neurodegenerative applications through international collaborations and clinical programs.
