UCB, a prominent global biopharmaceutical company, is set to present a total of **26 scientific abstracts** during the International Epilepsy Congress (IEC) in Lisbon, Portugal, from **August 30 to September 3, 2025**. These presentations underscore UCB’s ongoing commitment to enhancing research and treatment options for individuals living with various forms of epilepsy.
Among the key topics to be discussed is the long-term safety of **FINTEPLA** (fenfluramine), particularly in relation to its use for treating **Dravet syndrome** and **Lennox-Gastaut syndrome**. The findings are drawn from an extensive **open-label extension study** that involved **412 patients** who had previously participated in fenfluramine trials. The research reported no new safety signals and confirmed sustained benefits over the long term.
Insights into Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies
The data presented will delve into **developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs)**, focusing on both the challenges of diagnosis in adult care settings and the real-world impacts of unpredictable seizures. A **qualitative study** conducted in the UK, Germany, France, and Spain revealed diagnostic gaps that persist for adults, despite improved recognition in children. Caregivers emphasized that achieving a confirmed diagnosis can enhance holistic care, potentially improving the quality of life and reducing the risk of hospitalization.
Another significant aspect of the research includes a survey exploring the burdens of living with DEEs. Nearly **50% of caregivers** reported that frequent disruptive seizures led to a temporary loss of abilities previously associated with a better quality of life. These findings highlight the urgent need for more effective management strategies for patients facing unpredictable seizure activity.
Addressing Prolonged Seizures and Caregiver Experiences
Further research presented by UCB characterizes the experiences of patients and caregivers dealing with **prolonged seizures**. Findings indicate that these events can significantly diminish the quality of life, leading to increased anxiety about seizure occurrences. Data from **Adelphi’s Prolonged Seizure Disease Specific Programme** underscores that individuals enduring prolonged seizures frequently experience substantial worry about their condition.
A post hoc analysis of **video-EEG recordings** from **725 patients** provided insights into defining prolonged seizures, with recommendations supporting a **2-minute cutoff** for tonic-clonic seizures. This study aims to establish clearer guidelines for healthcare providers to better manage these critical situations.
UCB also plans to address the broader implications of DEEs during a symposium titled “Time Matters in Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies,” scheduled for **September 1, 2025**. This session will focus on improving diagnosis, understanding treatment trajectories, and addressing barriers to care, all with the goal of enhancing individual patient outcomes.
Dimitrios Bourikas, the Global Medical Head of DEE and Epilepsy at UCB, emphasized the company’s dedication to advancing care for those affected by epilepsy. He stated, “The breadth of data we are presenting at the International Epilepsy Congress reflects our commitment to advancing innovative solutions that address real-world patient needs.”
UCB’s participation in the IEC not only highlights the significance of ongoing research in epilepsy but also reinforces the necessity of collaboration among healthcare professionals to improve the lives of individuals living with these complex conditions. As the congress approaches, the anticipation for UCB’s presentations continues to grow, promising valuable insights and advancements in the field of epilepsy research and treatment.
