Entresto is a medication used to treat heart failure [1]. It combines two active ingredients: sacubitril and valsartan [2]. The 24/25 mg dosage form is one of the available strengths of Entresto, with other strengths including 49/51 mg and 97/103 mg [3].
How is Entresto Dosed?
The starting dose for Entresto is typically 49/51 mg twice daily [4]. After two weeks, the dose is usually increased to 97/103 mg twice daily, if tolerated [4]. The 24/25 mg strength is used as a lower starting dose in patients who are not currently taking an ACE inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), or who are switching from a low dose of these medications [4].
What is Entresto Used For?
Entresto is prescribed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in patients with symptomatic chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction [1][5]. It works by targeting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and also by augmenting natriuretic peptide systems [2].
When Does Entresto's Patent Expire?
The patent landscape for Entresto is complex, involving multiple patents covering the drug substance, formulations, and methods of use [6]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these patents and their expiry dates [6]. For specific patent expiry information, consulting a resource like DrugPatentWatch.com is recommended [6].
Are There Generic Versions of Entresto?
As of now, there are no generic versions of Entresto available in the United States [7]. The availability of generics is dependent on patent expiry and regulatory approvals [6].
What are the Side Effects of Entresto?
Common side effects of Entresto can include low blood pressure (hypotension), high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), dizziness, cough, and kidney problems [1]. Patients should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider [1].
How Does Entresto Compare to Other Heart Failure Medications?
Entresto has demonstrated superior efficacy compared to an ACE inhibitor (enalapril) in reducing cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalizations in patients with chronic heart failure and reduced ejection fraction [5]. However, other classes of medications, such as beta-blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, are also standard treatments for heart failure and are often used in combination with Entresto [8].
What Clinical Trials Support Entresto's Use?
The efficacy of Entresto was established in the PARADIGM-HF trial, a large-scale clinical study [5]. This trial compared Entresto to enalapril in patients with chronic heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, showing a significant reduction in the primary composite endpoint of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure [5].
Who Manufactures Entresto?
Entresto is manufactured by Novartis [9].
Sources
1. Entresto Label
2. Sacubitril/Valsartan: A Novel Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor
3. Entresto Dosage Information
4. Entresto Prescribing Information
5. Effect of Sacubitril/Valsartan Versus Enalapril on Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Symptomatic Chronic Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction: Design and rationale of the PARADIGM-HF trial
6. DrugPatentWatch.com
7. FDA Orange Book Search
8. Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Heart Failure
9. Novartis Website