Myasthenia Gravis Alliance receives Global Pharmaceuticals grant to further research and awareness

Impax Laboratories, Inc.Nov 25 2009

Global Pharmaceuticals, the generic products division of Impax Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: IPXL), today announced their cooperation in awarding a modest grant to Myasthenia Gravis Alliance, also known as Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of Greater New York, Inc., a 501(3)(c) non profit membership corporation, incorporated in the State of New York. A portion of the grant will fund The Alliance Fellowship for Myasthenia Gravis Research, at the University of California, Davis, under the direction of Dr. Robert Fairclough, Faculty Researcher/ Principal Investigator. The remainder of the grant will help defer the cost of The Circle News and other operating items.

Myasthenia Gravis is a chronic, sometimes fatal autoimmune neuromuscular disease in which communication between nerve and muscle is impaired, causing muscle fatigue. The disease is highly misdiagnosed. A neurologist is recommended for diagnosis. Global Pharmaceuticals is a leading distributor of pyridostigmine bromide, a key agent used in the treatment of Myasthenia Gravis.

Christopher Mengler, R.Ph., divisional president of Global Pharmaceuticals said: “We are pleased to assist the Myasthenia Gravis Alliance with a grant to further research and awareness of this disease. We recognize the need for research that will hopefully lead to improved quality of life and eventually result in a cure.”

“Our primary goal is to ensure that the proper and appropriate information is forwarded to our myasthenic patients as soon as they are diagnosed,” Executive Director, Debra Santulli-Barone declared, “since the first two years of diagnosis is crucial.”

Ms. Santulli-Barone continued: “I am so grateful to Global Pharmaceuticals for listening to our needs and providing a grant. This will give our members newfound hope. We can now launch a monthly MG Series Support Meeting to address topics such as, 'How to Deal with Your Spouse/Family While Living with MG, Cold Weather Tips, and, Your Options with Medication.'”