Alkem launches NeuCeno (cenobamate) for partial-onset seizures in India
- Alkem launches NeuCeno (cenobamate) on September 16, 2026, for partial-onset seizures in adults
- Cenobamate is launched for the first time in India, offering a once daily oral therapy
- Clinical studies show up to 78% reduction in seizure frequency with adjunctive use
- Available in six tablet strengths ranging from 12.5 mg to 200 mg
- Targets India's estimated 9.4 million epilepsy patients with uncontrolled seizures

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Alkem Laboratories launched NeuCeno (cenobamate) on September 16, 2026, for treating partial-onset seizures in adult patients. This marks the first launch of cenobamate in India.
Product overview
NeuCeno is an anti-seizure medication (ASM) indicated for adults with partial-onset seizures. It is designed as a once daily oral therapy to support patient adherence.
The drug acts through a unique dual mechanism of action:
- Selectively inhibits the persistent sodium current that drives repetitive neuronal firing
- Enhances the brain's natural inhibitory signaling via positive modulation of GABA-A receptors
In randomized clinical studies involving adults with uncontrolled focal seizures on existing medications, adjunctive cenobamate produced up to 78% reduction in seizure frequency. Up to 30% of patients achieved seizure freedom during the maintenance phase.
Launch details
NeuCeno is available in six tablet strengths: 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Product name | NeuCeno (cenobamate) |
| Indication | Partial-onset seizures in adults |
| Market | India |
| Dosing | Once daily oral |
| Strengths | 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg |
| Launch Date | September 16, 2026 |
Epilepsy affects an estimated 9.4 million people in India. Despite multiple available anti-seizure medications, a significant proportion of patients continue to experience uncontrolled seizures, impacting their independence and quality of life.
Management comment
Sandeep Singh, Managing Director, Alkem Laboratories Limited, stated that cenobamate has the potential to transform treatment outcomes for epilepsy management. He noted that patients deserve access to advanced treatment options addressing unmet medical needs.
The launch expands Alkem's neurology portfolio, adding to its existing dominance in anti-infectives, gastrointestinal, pain management drugs, and supplements.
Historical Stock Returns for Alkem Laboratories
| 1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| +0.37% | -0.02% | -3.50% | -3.28% | -5.83% | +34.47% |
How might Alkem Laboratories' first-mover advantage with cenobamate in India impact its market share against existing anti-seizure medications?
What pricing strategy is Alkem likely to adopt for NeuCeno to balance accessibility for the 9.4 million epilepsy patients in India with profitability?
Will the launch of NeuCeno prompt other Indian pharmaceutical companies to accelerate their own neurology pipeline or seek licensing deals for similar dual-mechanism drugs?


































