CNS

The central nervous system (CNS) is the part of the nervous system that comprises the brain and spinal cord. The brain is the body’s most sensitive organ. Since the brain contains all mental functions, disease and injury to the brain lead to implications for physical and mental health. There is a significant medical need that is growing as the population ages. Examples of common CNS disorders include depression, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, and sleep disorders.

Meda’s biggest products include one in the CNS therapy area: Mestinon (pyridostigmine bromide), which is used to treat myasthenia gravis (neuromuscular). Meda’s other CNS products include Felbatol (Felbamate), an anti-convulsant for treatment of epilepsy; Imovane (zopiclone), a hypnotic drug; Parlodel (bromocriptine mesylate) for treatment of diseases such as Parkinson’s; and Tasmar (tolcapone), used in combination with levodopa and carbidopa to treat patients with severe Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological disorder caused by lack of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, after Alzheimer’s.