Austedo is classified as a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor [1].
What is Austedo used to treat?
Austedo is prescribed to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia [1].
How do VMAT2 inhibitors work?
VMAT2 inhibitors, like Austedo, work by reducing the amount of dopamine that is released in the brain [2]. They bind to the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), an integral membrane protein found in the brain that is responsible for packaging monoamines like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine into synaptic vesicles for storage and release [2][3]. By inhibiting this transporter, VMAT2 inhibitors decrease the amount of these neurotransmitters available for release, which can help to manage involuntary movements associated with certain neurological disorders [2][3].
When does Austedo's patent expire?
The patent exclusivity for Austedo is complex, with various patents covering different aspects of the drug and its uses. Patent expiration dates can vary and are subject to ongoing legal challenges and market exclusivities. For detailed patent information and expiration timelines, resources like DrugPatentWatch.com can provide specific data [4].
What are the alternatives to Austedo for Huntington's disease?
Currently, Austedo is the only approved medication specifically for chorea associated with Huntington's disease [1]. Tetrabenazine is another VMAT2 inhibitor that has been used off-label for this indication, but it has a different dosing profile and potential side effect considerations [1][5].
What are the risks and side effects of Austedo?
Austedo carries a risk of QT interval prolongation, which can lead to serious arrhythmias. Patients with certain cardiac conditions or those taking other medications that affect the QT interval should be closely monitored [1]. Other potential side effects include depression, somnolence, parkinsonism, and akathisia [1]. There is also a risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome [1].
What is tardive dyskinesia?
Tardive dyskinesia is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements, most commonly in the face, tongue, lips, or jaw. It is often a side effect of long-term use of certain medications, particularly antipsychotics [6].
How does Austedo compare to other VMAT2 inhibitors?
Austedo (deutetrabenazine) is a deuterium-substituted version of tetrabenazine [5]. The deuterium substitution is designed to alter the drug's metabolism, potentially leading to more stable plasma concentrations and a reduced dosing frequency compared to tetrabenazine [5].
Can Austedo be used for other movement disorders?
While Austedo is approved for chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia, VMAT2 inhibitors are sometimes explored for other hyperkinetic movement disorders due to their mechanism of action. However, their efficacy and safety profiles may differ across conditions [2][3].
Who manufactures Austedo?
Austedo is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals [1].
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**Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/austedo
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug-class/vmat2-inhibitors
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/xenazine
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/deutetrabenazine
[6] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/condition/tardive-dyskinesia