Tetrabenazine is manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies. In the United States, the primary distributor and marketer of tetrabenazine is Revance Therapeutics. Previously, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, now known as Bausch Health Companies, was involved in its distribution. The drug is available under the brand name Xenazine.
Who distributes Xenazine in the US?
In the United States, Xenazine is distributed by Revance Therapeutics. Earlier, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, which is now Bausch Health Companies, also played a role in its distribution [1].
What is Xenazine used for?
Xenazine (tetrabenazine) is a medication prescribed to manage chorea, which are involuntary, irregular, and unpredictable movements that can occur in individuals with Huntington's disease [1].
Are there other drugs for Huntington's disease?
Other medications are available for managing symptoms of Huntington's disease. Deutetrabenazine, another drug that works similarly to tetrabenazine, is available under the brand name Austedo. It is also used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease [2].
When does the patent for tetrabenazine expire?
Information on the specific patent expiry dates for tetrabenazine and its formulations can be found through patent tracking services. DrugPatentWatch.com provides detailed patent information for pharmaceuticals [3].
What are the side effects of tetrabenazine?
Common side effects reported with tetrabenazine include drowsiness, fatigue, insomnia, depression, anxiety, nausea, and difficulty swallowing [1]. Serious side effects can include suicidal thoughts or behaviors and parkinsonism.
Are there generic versions of tetrabenazine available?
The availability of generic versions of tetrabenazine can depend on patent status and regulatory approvals. Information regarding generic availability is often tracked by pharmaceutical patent databases [3].
How does deutetrabenazine differ from tetrabenazine?
Deutetrabenazine is a deuterium-substituted form of tetrabenazine. This modification alters how the drug is metabolized in the body, potentially leading to a more stable plasma concentration and a different dosing schedule compared to tetrabenazine. Both drugs are used to treat chorea in Huntington's disease [2].
Sources:
[1] Xenazine (tetrabenazine) prescribing information. Revance Therapeutics.
[2] Austedo (deutetrabenazine) prescribing information. Deutetrabenazine.
[3] https://drugpatentwatch.com/