Eluxadoline, marketed as Viberzi, is a medication used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) [1]. It is an oral medication that works by targeting opioid receptors in the gut [2].
How does Viberzi work?
Viberzi is a mixed mu-opioid receptor agonist and delta-opioid receptor antagonist [2]. This dual action helps to reduce intestinal motility and secretion, which can alleviate diarrhea and abdominal pain associated with IBS-D [3]. Unlike some other opioid medications, its peripheral action is intended to limit central nervous system effects [2].
What is the mechanism of action for eluxadoline?
Eluxadoline's therapeutic effects stem from its interaction with opioid receptors predominantly located in the enteric nervous system of the gastrointestinal tract. As a mu-opioid receptor agonist, it decreases gastrointestinal motility and reduces visceral sensitivity. Simultaneously, its delta-opioid receptor antagonist activity is thought to mitigate opioid-induced constipation, a common side effect with mu-opioid agonists [4].
When did Viberzi receive FDA approval?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Viberzi for the treatment of IBS-D in adults in November 2015 [1].
What are the potential side effects of Viberzi?
Common side effects reported with Viberzi include constipation, nausea, and abdominal pain [3]. More serious risks include pancreatitis and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, particularly in patients who have had their gallbladder removed [5]. The prescribing information advises against use in patients with a history of pancreatitis or severe hepatic impairment, and cautions its use in those without a gallbladder [5].
What happens if a patient without a gallbladder takes Viberzi?
For patients who have had their gallbladder removed, Viberzi carries an increased risk of developing pancreatitis and sphincter of Oddi spasm. These risks are significant enough that the medication is contraindicated in patients with a history of pancreatitis or severe hepatic impairment and requires careful consideration in those without a gallbladder [5].
Can Viberzi be used for IBS with constipation?
Viberzi is specifically indicated for the treatment of IBS-D. It is not approved for or recommended for individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) or mixed IBS (IBS-M) [1].
What are the patent and exclusivity details for Viberzi?
Information regarding eluxadoline (Viberzi) patents and exclusivity can be found on resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [6]. Patents protect the intellectual property of the drug manufacturer, affecting the timeline for generic competition.
How does Viberzi compare to other IBS-D treatments?
Viberzi offers a different mechanism of action compared to other IBS-D treatments, such as loperamide, which is a peripheral mu-opioid agonist, or other medications that target different pathways in the gut [4]. Its selective action on gut opioid receptors aims to provide symptom relief without the systemic side effects associated with centrally acting opioids.
Who manufactures Viberzi?
Viberzi is manufactured by AbbVie Inc. [1].
Sources
1. https://www.viberzi.com/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5331431/
3. https://www.rxlist.com/viberzi-drug.htm
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/eluxadoline-oral-route/description/drg-20063186
5. https://www.viberzi.com/pdf/Viberzi-prescribing-information.pdf
6. https://drugpatentwatch.com/