BMS Launches Newly-Approved Drug for MS

According to a Bristol Myers Squibb press release, Zeposia, a new medication for adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS), is now commercially available in the U.S. following approval by the FDA on March 25, 2020.

“We are pleased to now bring Zeposia… to RMS patients,” said Tina Deignan, vice president and U.S. head of immunology, Bristol Myers Squibb. “Zeposia is the first and only S1P that requires no first dose observation, which may minimize the number of interactions RMS patients need to have with healthcare practitioners prior to initiating therapy during this unprecedented time of social distancing.”

The Zeposia 360 Support™ program will facilitate access for appropriate patients with MS. This includes a co-pay of as little as $0 for eligible appropriate patients, assistance with financial support, reimbursement for some initial out-of-pocket medical costs – and a program that may help eligible patients with commercial insurance to receive free medication while they are waiting for insurance approvals.

Zeposia is also in development for additional immune-inflammatory indications, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which the immune system attacks the protective myelin sheath that covers the nerves. The myelin damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Ultimately, the nerves themselves may deteriorate — a process that’s currently irreversible. RMS is characterized by clearly defined attacks of worsening neurologic function. These attacks — often called relapses, flare-ups or exacerbations — are followed by partial or complete recovery periods (remissions), during which symptoms improve partially or completely with no apparent progression of disease. RMS is the most common disease course at the time of diagnosis. Approximately 85% of patients are initially diagnosed with RMS, compared with 10-15% with progressive forms of the disease. (Source: Bristol Myers Squibb Website, 01 June, 2020)