Idebenone is a synthetic short-chain benzoquinone and a substrate for the enzyme NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1) capable of stimulating mitochondrial electron transport and supplementing cellular energy levels. Idebenone was initially developed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive defects. This has been met with limited success. The Swiss company Santhera Pharmaceuticals has started to investigate it for the treatment of neuromuscular diseases. In 2010, early clinical trials for the treatment of Friedreich’s ataxia and Duchenne muscular dystrophy have been completed. In clinical trials, Idebenone (Raxone/Catena) had a positive impact on a measurement of respiratory function (Peak Expiratory Flow, or PEF) in non-ambulatory Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients who were not taking steroids. As of December 2013 the drug is not approved for these indications in North America or Europe. It is approved for the treatment of Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) in Europe. Idebenone (Raxone) is indicated for the treatment of visual impairment in adolescent and adult patients with Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON). Because the number of patients with Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy is low, the disease is considered ‘rare’, and Raxone was designated an ‘orphan medicine’ on 15 February 2007. Idebenone is thought to help improve production of energy by restoring mitochondrial function, thereby preventing the cellular damage and the loss of sight seen in LHON. Idebenone is a rapidly absorbed, safe and well-tolerated drug and is currently the only clinically proven treatment option for Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) patients.