After over a decade of research propelled by the Canadian Spinal Research Organization, 2009 will be a particularly significant year for Fampridine-SR (formerly named 4-AP), as the CSRO awaits final FDA approval of the drug.  On January 30, 2009, Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. submitted a New Drug Application (NDA) for Fampridine-SR.  There are currently no therapies Indicated to Improve Walking Ability in People with MS.

Fampridine-SR is a drug that increases the function of message and impulse transmittal through nerves to the spinal cord. The subjects who received treatment with the drug showed increased walking speed, five times greater than that of the control group.  Those with incomplete SCI’s also claim up to a 30% increase in mobility.

Although the Phase 3 trials of Fampridine-SR in spinal cord injured (SCI) individuals had a mixed review, the drug still holds promise for people with SCI once it’s approved through the FDA. Similar studies of the drug in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) were less complicated and easier to market. 

On Sept. 20, 2008, Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. announced additional data from its second Phase 3 clinical trial of Fampridine-SR on walking ability in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The trial met its primary endpoint with a significantly greater proportion of people taking Fampridine-SR having a consistent improvement in walking speed compared to people taking placebo (42.9% vs. 9.3%). The study also met its secondary outcome measure, leg strength, showing a statistically significant increase in Fampridine-SR compared to placebo.