FDA approves GSK, XenoPort drug for shingles pain

NEW YORK — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a drug made by GlaxoSmithKline and XenoPort for treating pain associated with shingles.

The drug makers announced Thursday the approval of Horizant (gabapentin enacarbil) extended-release tablets for managing post-herpetic neuralgia. The drug already had FDA approval for treating restless legs syndrome. The approval entitles XenoPort to a $10 million milestone payment from GSK, according to a collaborative agreement between the two companies.

The recommended dosage of the drug for managing post-herpetic neuralgia is a morning dose of 600 mg for three days followed by 600 mg twice daily starting on day four.

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