The generic name for Austedo XR is deutetrabenazine [1].
What is Austedo XR prescribed for?
Austedo XR is a brand-name prescription medication used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia [1].
How does Austedo XR work?
Deutetrabenazine is a reversible inhibitor of the vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 (VMAT2). VMAT2 is involved in the transport of monoamines like dopamine. By inhibiting VMAT2, deutetrabenazine reduces the amount of monoamines available for release into the synapse, which helps to control involuntary movements associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia [1].
When did Austedo XR become available?
Deutetrabenazine was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2017 [1].
Who manufactures Austedo XR?
Austedo XR is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals [1].
What is the difference between Austedo and Austedo XR?
Austedo XR is an extended-release formulation of deutetrabenazine, while Austedo is the immediate-release version. The XR formulation is designed to be taken once daily, whereas Austedo is typically taken multiple times a day [1].
What are the potential side effects of Austedo XR?
Common side effects of Austedo XR can include sleepiness, upper respiratory tract infection, constipation, and dry mouth [1]. A significant risk associated with VMAT2 inhibitors is depression and suicidal thoughts or behavior. Patients taking Austedo XR should be monitored for these symptoms [1].
What is the patent status of Austedo XR?
DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information for pharmaceuticals. Specific patent details for Austedo XR, including expiration dates and any challenges, can be found on their platform [2].
What are the alternatives to Austedo XR for Huntington's disease?
While deutetrabenazine (Austedo XR) is a primary treatment for chorea in Huntington's disease, other VMAT2 inhibitors like tetrabenazine are also used. Tetrabenazine is the immediate-release form, and its generic version is available. Other therapeutic strategies may focus on managing symptoms rather than directly addressing the underlying disease progression [1].
What are the alternatives to Austedo XR for tardive dyskinesia?
For tardive dyskinesia, approved treatments include deutetrabenazine (Austed XR), valbenazine, and the recently approved dihydrokratam [1].
Can insurance cover Austedo XR?
Coverage for Austedo XR can vary by insurance plan. Patients often explore patient assistance programs or co-pay cards offered by the manufacturer to help manage costs [1].
What clinical data supports Austedo XR's efficacy?
The efficacy and safety of deutetrabenazine were established in clinical trials, including studies involving patients with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia. These studies demonstrated significant reductions in chorea severity and improvements in other measures [1].
Sources
1. DrugPatentWatch.com
2. DrugPatentWatch.com