News

An $86,880 grant from the National Science Foundation will support the development of computer simulations that aim to improve scientists’ understanding of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) — the site where nerve cells connect with muscles. The results may help researchers find treatments for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS)…

Same But Different, a nonprofit U.K. group that uses art for social change, is inviting people to choose their favorite photographs in a calendar contest to heighten awareness of rare diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The organization’s panel of judges has pared the number of contest submissions…

Ruzurgi (amifampridine), an oral treatment for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), is now available to Canadian patients ages 6 or older. Following its approval by Health Canada earlier this…

When monitoring Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) patients, physicians should wait at least 150 seconds between nerve stimulation tests to avoid interference from prior exercise or electric stimulation in subsequent muscle responses, a recent study found. The study, “Assessment of the CMAP Amplitude Return Time…

Same But Different, a U.K. nonprofit that uses the arts to bring communities together, is holding a calendar photography competition to raise awareness for rare diseases. Under the theme “A Glimmer of Hope,” the competition is a means to “visually express the hope that exists for people affected by…

Catalyst Pharmaceuticals and KYE Pharmaceuticals have reached an exclusive agreement that will enable KYE to commercialize Firdapse (amifampridine), Catalyst’s oral therapy for adults with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), in Canada. The announcement comes after the medication was approved by Health Canada earlier this month.

Raremark, an online rare disease patient community, has launched a digital platform called Xperiome, aimed at streamlining the search for new medicines for rare disorders and incorporating more patient input into research. The goal is to help the pharmaceutical industry deliver innovative new therapies faster and smarter, the…

Health Canada has approved Ruzurgi (amifampridine) for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) in individuals ages 6 or older. In Canada, the oral medication will be commercialized by Médunik Canada, per an agreement with Jacobus Pharmaceuticals, the original developer of Ruzurgi.  “We are proud…

The EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases has launched a scholarship fund in the U.S. to support individuals with rare disorders who are pursuing personal goals through training and education. The initial phase of the five-year, $1-million #RAREis Scholarship Fund will include 32 scholarships — each totaling $5,000 —…

Health Canada has approved the use of oral Firdapse (amifampridine) to treat people with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). Catalyst Pharmaceuticals‘ request for Firdapse’s approval in Canada was assigned priority review. The oral therapy (given in 10 mg tablets) is already available for…