Austedo is a prescription medication used to treat tardive dyskinesia and chorea associated with Huntington's disease [1]. It is an oral medication that contains deutetrabenazine [1].
What is deutetrabenazine and how does it work?
Deutetrabenazine is a form of tetrabenazine that has deuterium atoms incorporated into its molecular structure [2]. This modification alters how the drug is metabolized in the body. By binding to vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), deutetrabenazine reduces the amount of dopamine that can be released into the synapse [1]. This reduction in dopamine activity helps to control the involuntary movements characteristic of tardive dyskinesia and Huntington's disease [1]. The deuterium substitution in deutetrabenazine leads to a slower breakdown of the drug compared to tetrabenazine, potentially resulting in a more stable and predictable drug exposure [2].
When did Austedo become available?
Austedo was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington's disease in April 2017 and for tardive dyskinesia in April 2017 as well [3].
How does Austedo compare to other treatments for tardive dyskinesia?
Austedo is one of the approved medications for tardive dyskinesia. Another medication for this condition is Ingrezza (valbenazine) [4]. Both Austedo and Ingrezza work by targeting the VMAT2 protein, but they differ in their specific molecular structure and pharmacokinetic profiles [4]. Clinical trials have shown both drugs to be effective in reducing involuntary movements in patients with tardive dyskinesia [4]. The choice between Austedo and Ingrezza may depend on individual patient factors, physician preference, and tolerability [4].
What is the typical dosage and administration of Austedo?
Austedo is available in tablet form [1]. The starting dosage and titration schedule are individualized based on the patient's condition and response [1]. Doses are typically taken twice daily, with or without food [1]. It is important to follow the prescribing physician's instructions carefully regarding dosage and administration [1].
What are the potential side effects of Austedo?
Common side effects of Austedo can include insomnia, upper respiratory tract infection, fatigue, and somnolence [1]. A serious risk associated with Austedo is depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors [1]. Patients should be monitored for mood changes, and any new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in behavior should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately [1]. Another potential side effect is parkinsonism, which can manifest as increased muscle rigidity, slow movement, and tremor [1]. QT prolongation, a condition that can affect heart rhythm, is also a potential risk [1].
Can Austedo be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The use of Austedo during pregnancy is not recommended unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus [1]. It is unknown whether Austedo is excreted in human milk [1]. Patients who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should discuss these risks with their healthcare provider [1].
Are there any drug interactions with Austedo?
Austedo can interact with several other medications, including certain antidepressants, antifungals, and heart medications [1]. Co-administration with strong CYP1A2 inhibitors can increase exposure to deutetrabenazine, potentially increasing the risk of side effects [1]. It is crucial to inform a healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements being taken before starting Austedo [1].
What is the patent status of Austedo?
Austedo's active ingredient, deutetrabenazine, is protected by patents [5]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information for medications like Austedo, including expiry dates and patent challenges [5]. Understanding patent exclusivity is important for predicting when generic versions of a drug might become available [5].