Austedo is a brand name for a medication containing deutetrabenazine [1]. It is used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia [1].
What is Huntington's Disease Chorea?
Chorea in Huntington's disease refers to involuntary, irregular, and abrupt movements that can affect the face, trunk, and limbs [2]. These movements are a hallmark symptom of the neurodegenerative disorder [2].
How does Austedo work?
Austedo, or deutetrabenazine, works by affecting levels of a neurotransmitter in the brain called dopamine [1]. By altering dopamine levels, it helps to reduce the involuntary movements associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia [1].
What is Tardive Dyskinesia?
Tardive dyskinesia is a side effect that can occur with long-term use of certain medications, particularly antipsychotics [3]. It is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, often of the face, tongue, lips, jaw, and sometimes the trunk and limbs [3].
Can Austedo be used for other conditions?
Currently, Austedo is approved for chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia [1]. Information regarding its use for other conditions is not provided.
What is the typical dosage of Austedo?
The dosage of Austedo can vary. For chorea associated with Huntington's disease, treatment typically starts at 6 mg orally twice a day and may be increased by 6 mg every four days to a maximum of 48 mg per day [1]. For tardive dyskinesia, treatment generally begins at 6 mg orally twice a day and can be increased by 6 mg every four days to a maximum of 24 mg per day [1]. Dosing should be individualized based on the patient's response and tolerability [1].
What are the potential side effects of Austedo?
Common side effects of Austedo can include drowsiness, fatigue, insomnia, and parkinsonism [1]. More serious side effects can involve depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, and QT interval prolongation [1]. It is important for patients to discuss any potential side effects with their healthcare provider [1].
When does Austedo's patent protection expire?
Information on the specific patent expiration dates for Austedo is not provided. However, patent information for prescription drugs, including those like Austedo, can be tracked through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [4]. This site offers details on patent status, expiry dates, and potential for generic competition [4].
How does Austedo compare to other treatments for Huntington's disease chorea?
Another medication used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease is Xenazine (valbenazine) [5]. Both deutetrabenazine (Austedo) and valbenazine are VMAT2 inhibitors that work on dopamine levels, but they have different chemical structures and dosing regimens [5].
Are there generic versions of Austedo available?
As of the information provided, there is no mention of generic versions of Austedo being available. Patent expiry is a key factor in the availability of generic alternatives [4].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/austedo
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/disease/huntingtons-disease
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/disease/tardive-dyskinesia
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/xenazine