The maker of Repatha is Amgen [1].
What is Repatha used for?
Repatha (evolocumab) is a prescription medicine used to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol [2]. It is prescribed for adults with certain inherited high cholesterol conditions (heterozygous or homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia) or for adults with high cholesterol who need additional LDL reduction beyond diet and statins [2]. Repatha is also used along with other cholesterol-lowering medicines to reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack in adults with heart disease [2].
How does Repatha work?
Repatha is a PCSK9 inhibitor. It works by decreasing the amount of LDL cholesterol produced by the liver [3]. It targets and blocks the PCSK9 protein, which normally breaks down LDL receptors on the liver. By inhibiting PCSK9, more LDL receptors remain on the liver surface, allowing them to remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood [3].
When is Repatha's patent protection expected to end?
Information on patent expiry dates for specific drugs can be complex and subject to change. DrugPatentWatch.com is a resource that tracks these patent details [4]. General information regarding the patent landscape for Repatha would be available through specialized patent tracking services.
Who are Amgen's competitors in the PCSK9 inhibitor market?
Amgen's primary competitor in the PCSK9 inhibitor space is Sanofi and Regeneron, with their drug Praluent (alirocumab) [5]. Both medications target the PCSK9 protein to lower LDL cholesterol.
What are the clinical trial results for Repatha?
Clinical trials for Repatha have demonstrated significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels. For instance, in the FOURIER trial, Repatha significantly reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with established cardiovascular disease who were already on statin therapy [6]. These trials provide evidence for Repatha's efficacy in lowering LDL cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk [6].
What is the typical cost of Repatha?
The cost of Repatha can vary depending on insurance coverage, pharmacy, and geographic location. It is a high-cost medication, and patient assistance programs may be available from the manufacturer to help offset costs for eligible individuals [7].
What are the potential side effects of Repatha?
Common side effects of Repatha include upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis (common cold), and influenza [2]. Other reported side effects can include injection site reactions and muscle pain [2]. Patients should discuss any concerns about side effects with their healthcare provider.
Can biosimilars of Repatha be developed?
The development of biosimilars for biologic drugs like Repatha is a complex process. Once patent protections expire and regulatory pathways are established, biosimilar versions could potentially enter the market, offering alternative treatment options [4].
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Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/repatha
[2] https://www.repatha.com/
[3] https://www.amgen.com/news/2015/08/amgen-receives-fda-approval-for-repatha-praluent-PCSK9-inhibitors-begin-new-era-of-cholesterol-lowering-therapy/
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/praluent
[6] https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1702926
[7] https://www.repatha.com/patients/repatha-support