Alirocumab is marketed under the brand name Praluent [1].
What is Praluent used for?
Praluent is a prescription medicine used to lower elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol [2]. It is prescribed for adults with certain types of high cholesterol, including those with familial hypercholesterolemia (a genetic disorder causing very high LDL cholesterol) or established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, when diet and other cholesterol-lowering medicines are not enough [2].
How does Praluent work?
Praluent is an injectable medication that belongs to a class of drugs called PCSK9 inhibitors [2]. It works by increasing the liver's ability to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood [2]. This is achieved by blocking the PCSK9 protein, which would otherwise bind to LDL receptors on liver cells and mark them for destruction [3]. By blocking PCSK9, more LDL receptors remain available on the liver's surface, leading to increased clearance of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream [3].
When does Praluent's patent expire?
The patent landscape for Praluent is complex and involves multiple patents covering the drug, its use, and manufacturing processes. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the earliest compound patent for alirocumab is set to expire in 2024, but other patents related to formulations and methods of use extend much further [4]. The exact expiry dates and the enforceability of these later patents can be subject to legal challenges and specific market conditions [4].
Who makes Praluent?
Praluent is developed and manufactured by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Sanofi [1]. These two companies have collaborated on the development and commercialization of alirocumab [1].
How does Praluent compare to other cholesterol medications?
Praluent, as a PCSK9 inhibitor, offers a different mechanism of action compared to traditional cholesterol-lowering drugs like statins [3]. While statins work by reducing the liver's production of cholesterol, PCSK9 inhibitors enhance the liver's ability to clear existing LDL cholesterol from the blood [3]. Praluent is typically used in addition to statins or for patients who cannot tolerate statins [2]. Another PCSK9 inhibitor, evolocumab (marketed as Repatha), is a direct competitor with a similar mechanism and therapeutic profile [3].
What are the potential side effects of Praluent?
Common side effects of Praluent can include cold-like symptoms (nasopharyngitis), pain in the upper part of the throat and nose, and flu-like symptoms [2]. Allergic reactions are also possible [2]. Patients should discuss any potential side effects with their healthcare provider [2].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[2] https://www.praluent.com/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5785943/
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/