Ketamine treatment for status epilepticus receives orphan drug designation

The FDA granted orphan drug designation to PharmaTher for its status epilepticus ketamine treatment, according to a company press release.

The current designation helps the company build upon its portfolio for ketamine, which includes treatments for ALS and complex regional pain syndrome.

“Studies have shown the potential of ketamine to treat various mental health, neurological and pain disorders,” Fabio Chianelli, CEO of PharmaTher, said in the release. “We are focused on becoming the leader for providing novel ketamine solutions.

“Our dedication in expanding ketamine’s therapeutic utility in rare disorders and life-threatening conditions including, but not limited to, Parkinson’s disease, [ALS], complex regional pain syndrome and now status epilepticus puts us on the right path in making ketamine more available to improve quality of life and to save lives,” Chianelli added.