Austedo XR is a prescription medication used to treat chorea, which is characterized by involuntary, irregular muscle movements, associated with Huntington's disease [1]. It is also indicated for tardive dyskinesia, another movement disorder causing involuntary, repetitive movements [2].
How does Austedo XR work?
Austedo XR contains deutetrabenazine, which is a deuterium-deuterated analog of tetrabenazine. Tetrabenazine is a reversible inhibitor of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) [3]. By inhibiting VMAT2, deutetrabenazine depletes monoamines such as dopamine in the brain, which helps to reduce involuntary movements [3]. The deuterium substitution in deutetrabenazine alters the drug's metabolism, leading to a longer half-life and potentially different pharmacokinetic properties compared to tetrabenazine [3].
What is the difference between Austedo and Austedo XR?
Austedo XR is an extended-release formulation of deutetrabenazine. This means it is designed to release the medication slowly over time, allowing for once-daily dosing [4]. The original Austedo formulation required twice-daily dosing [4].
When does Austedo XR patent expire?
The patent expiration dates for Austedo XR and its active ingredient, deutetrabenazine, are crucial for understanding when generic versions might become available. Information on patent status and expiration can be found on resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [5]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information, including expiration dates and any potential extensions or challenges, which are vital for the pharmaceutical industry and for patients anticipating lower-cost alternatives [5].
What are the side effects of Austedo XR?
Common side effects of Austedo XR can include sleepiness, dry mouth, and constipation [1, 2]. More serious side effects may involve depression, suicidal thoughts, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome [1, 2]. It is important for patients to discuss any concerns about side effects with their healthcare provider [1, 2].
Who makes Austedo XR?
Austedo XR is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals [1, 2].
What clinical data supports Austedo XR?
The efficacy and safety of deutetrabenazine, the active ingredient in Austedo XR, have been evaluated in clinical trials for both Huntington's disease chorea and tardive dyskinesia. These studies have demonstrated a significant reduction in involuntary movements in patients treated with the drug [1, 2].
What are the risks of using Austedo XR?
Austedo XR carries a boxed warning regarding the risk of depression and suicidal ideation and behavior. Patients should be monitored for worsening depression or suicidal thoughts [1, 2]. Additionally, there is a risk of parkinsonism and somnolence [1, 2].
Sources:
[1] https://www.austedoxr.com/
[2] https://www.drugs.com/austedo-xr.html
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6510538/
[4] https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/home/issues/articles/long-acting-deutetrabenazine-austedo-xr-receives-fda-approval-for-huntington-disease-chorea/
[5] https://drugpatentwatch.com/