Horizant ER 600 mg tablets are an extended-release formulation of gabapentin enacarbil, used to treat moderate-to-severe primary restless legs syndrome (RLS) in adults [1]. They are also indicated for the management of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) in adults [1]. The 600 mg tablet is one of the available dosage strengths for this medication [1].
How does Horizant work for Restless Legs Syndrome?
Horizant contains gabapentin enacarbil, which is a prodrug of gabapentin [1]. After oral administration, gabapentin enacarbil is rapidly converted to gabapentin in the body [1]. Gabapentin is thought to reduce the symptoms of RLS by affecting neurotransmitter release in the brain, though its precise mechanism in RLS is not fully understood [1]. The extended-release formulation is designed to provide a consistent level of the active drug throughout the night [1].
What is the typical Horizant dosage for RLS?
For moderate-to-severe primary restless legs syndrome, the recommended dose of Horizant is 600 mg taken once daily approximately one hour before bedtime [1]. Doses may be adjusted based on individual patient response and tolerability [1].
What is postherpetic neuralgia and how is Horizant used?
Postherpetic neuralgia is a type of nerve pain that can occur after a shingles infection [1]. Horizant ER 600 mg tablets are indicated for the management of this condition in adults [1]. The recommended dosage for PHN is also 600 mg taken once daily [1].
Are there other strengths of Horizant available?
Yes, Horizant is available in other strengths, including 300 mg tablets [1]. These different strengths allow healthcare providers to tailor treatment to individual patient needs [1].
When does Horizant patent protection expire?
Patent information for medications like Horizant can be complex and may involve multiple patents covering the active ingredient, formulation, and method of use [2]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these patents and their expiry dates, which can indicate when generic versions may become available [2]. Specific patent expiry dates for Horizant would need to be consulted on specialized databases like DrugPatentWatch.com [2].
Who manufactures Horizant?
Horizant is manufactured by Horizon Therapeutics [1].
What are the common side effects of Horizant?
Common side effects associated with Horizant include dizziness, somnolence (drowsiness), and fatigue [1]. Patients are advised to report any persistent or bothersome side effects to their healthcare provider [1].
Can Horizant be taken with food?
Horizant ER tablets should be taken without food [1]. Food may affect the absorption of the medication [1].
What are the risks or precautions when taking Horizant?
Patients taking Horizant should be aware of potential risks, including somnolence and dizziness, which can impair the ability to drive or operate machinery [1]. It is also important to discuss all other medications with a healthcare provider, as drug interactions can occur [1]. Withdrawal symptoms may occur if Horizant is stopped abruptly [1].
What is the difference between Horizant and gabapentin?
Horizant is a prodrug of gabapentin, meaning it is converted to gabapentin in the body [1]. Gabapentin enacarbil, the active ingredient in Horizant, is designed to provide extended-release of gabapentin [1]. While gabapentin itself is used for various conditions, Horizant specifically is indicated for RLS and PHN and offers an extended-release profile [1].
Can generic versions of Horizant be made?
The availability of generic versions of Horizant depends on patent expiry and regulatory approval [2]. Once patents expire and regulatory hurdles are cleared, generic manufacturers can seek approval to market their own versions of the drug [2].
Sources:
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/203743s010lbl.pdf
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/