The Food and Drug Administration has approved amifampridine (Firdapse) as the first treatment for the rare autoimmune disorder known as Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, which causes the immune system to attack the neuromuscular junction and thereby disrupts the nerves’ ability to send signals to muscle cells. This causes fatigue and weakness in those affected, so they can experience difficulties with activities of daily living as a result.
The most common side effects included prickling sensation, upper respiratory tract infection, abdominal pain, and muscle spasms.
More information can be found in the FDA’s press announcement.
cpalmer@mdedge.com