Acorda Therapeutics has launched Zanaflex Capsules, a new capsule formulation of tizanidine, a leading treatment for spasticity in multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury in the US.

Acorda acquired Zanaflex Capsules and Zanaflex (tizanidine hydrochloride) tablets from the recently troubled Elan Corporation in July 2004. Elan will manufacture Zanaflex Capsules for Acorda at its Athlone, Ireland facility.

Zanaflex Capsules are a short-acting drug for the management of spasticity. Spasticity refers to the often painful involuntary tension, stiffening or contractions of muscles that results from neurological conditions such as spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis.

Zanaflex Capsules are available in 2mg, 4mg and a new, 6mg strength. The 6mg dose is only available in the capsule formulation. This formulation can provide physicians and patients new dosing options and added convenience.

In clinical studies, Zanaflex was shown to significantly reduce excessive muscle tone and spasms without reducing the function of healthy muscles. It is thought to reduce spasticity by blocking nerve impulses through pre-synaptic inhibition of motor neurons, resulting in decreased spasticity without a reduction in muscle strength.

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