Alpha Cognition Inc. has received FDA approval for ZUNVEYL® (benzgalantamine), a novel oral therapy for the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. This approval marks a significant milestone as ZUNVEYL® is only the second oral AD treatment approved in over a decade. The drug's unique design aims to improve tolerability and efficacy, addressing critical needs in Alzheimer's care.
Innovative Approach to Alzheimer's Treatment
ZUNVEYL® features a dual mechanism of action designed to eliminate drug absorption in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, potentially mitigating tolerability issues commonly associated with existing Alzheimer's medications. This innovative approach combines the established efficacy and long-term benefits of galantamine with an improved tolerability profile. Data indicates that 55% of AD patients discontinue their medication after one year, primarily due to GI side effects and insomnia, highlighting the need for better-tolerated treatments.
Elaine Peskind, MD, the Friends of Alzheimer’s Research Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Washington School of Medicine, stated, "I am very excited about the approval of ZUNVEYL, which we believe offers better tolerability for patients with Alzheimer's disease... To now have an agent with the efficacy of galantamine, but that also offers the hope of better tolerability, will provide physicians a great option to treat patients."
Clinical Trial Data and Efficacy
The FDA's approval of ZUNVEYL® was based on chemistry, manufacturing, and controls information, along with data demonstrating bioequivalence and tolerability compared to galantamine immediate-release tablets and galantamine extended-release capsules. Across all studies, GI adverse events were documented in less than 2% of participants, and no insomnia was observed.
ZUNVEYL, a prodrug of galantamine, functions as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI), preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a crucial neurotransmitter for memory, motivation, and attention. It also acts as an allosteric potentiator of α-7 nicotinic acetylcholine and α4β2 receptors, facilitating acetylcholine release from presynaptic neurons. Clinical trials for galantamine have shown sustained improvements in cognitive function and quality of life over extended treatment periods, with the active moiety demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects and a reduced risk of developing severe dementia.
Market Availability and Future Plans
ZUNVEYL® is slated for availability by prescription in pharmacies nationwide in Q1 2025. Alpha Cognition is dedicated to ensuring broad access to this treatment, collaborating closely with healthcare providers, insurers, and patient advocacy groups to support its distribution. Alpha Cognition Chief Operating Officer Lauren D’Angelo said, "ZUNVEYL offers dual-action benefits with the established efficacy of galantamine and no insomnia. It was uniquely designed to bypass the gut with the potential of minimizing GI side effects."
Alzheimer's Disease: A Critical Need
Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, affects nearly 7 million people in the United States and is a leading cause of nursing home admissions and deaths, with 70% of all nursing home residents suffering from the condition. The approval of ZUNVEYL® represents a significant advancement in addressing the unmet needs of this patient population.
