Huma and UCB to Offer Digital Health Solution to Improve Management of Myasthenia Gravis

Rare Daily Staff

The digital health company Huma Therapeutics has entered into a partnership and the global biopharmaceutical company to help patients with the rare, autoimmune disease myasthenia gravis better understand and manage their condition with the support of their clinician.

The companies said the digital platform will launch in Europe ahead of international expansion.

Myasthenia gravis is a rare, debilitating, chronic, autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by loss of muscle function and severe muscle weakness. The condition can occur at any age, but it most commonly begins for women before the age of 40 and for men after the age of 60. Initial symptoms may include slurred speech, double vision, droopy eyelids, and lack of balance. These can often lead to more severe symptoms as the disease progresses such as impaired swallowing, choking, extreme fatigue, and respiratory failure.

Huma’s technology platform will provide patients with access to MG-specific, educational materials, and the ability to report and track their symptoms over time using the MG-Activities of Daily Living Scale. These data are shared with clinicians through a web-based dashboard to detect exacerbations in symptoms early and intervene where necessary.

Identifying exacerbation triggers will support proactive clinical decision-making and should improve patient experience, the companies said. Patients can download summary reports of their health data to discuss with their clinician to maximize in-person consultations.

The partnership is part of UCB’s approach to offer a patient-centered approach to transform the way care is delivered to rare disease populations in a meaningful, tangible, and real-world setting.

“Symptoms of Myasthenia gravis can vary greatly, and each person experiences the disease in a uniquely personal way,” said Charl van Zyl, executive vice president of neurology and head of Europe/International Markets at UCB. “We believe that innovations in digital health solutions can offer the necessary personalized support, education, and resources for each patient.”

Photo: Charl van Zyl, executive vice president of neurology and head of Europe/International Markets at UCB