Entresto?

What is Entresto, and what conditions does it treat?

Entresto is a prescription medication used to treat certain heart failure conditions. It is a combination of two active ingredients, sacubitril and valsartan, and is marketed under the brand name Entresto by Novartis [1]. The medication is designed to help patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) who are at risk of hospitalization due to worsening heart failure.

How does Entresto work compared to other treatments?

Entresto works by inhibiting the effects of a substance called neprilysin, which can contribute to heart failure. The medication also blocks the action of specific receptors in the body called angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors, which can cause blood pressure to rise and contribute to heart failure [2]. This dual action helps to reduce the strain on the heart and improve symptoms of heart failure.

What are the benefits and risks associated with Entresto?

The benefits of Entresto include reduced hospitalization rates due to worsening heart failure, improved exercise capacity, and improved quality of life for patients with HFrEF [3]. However, like all medications, Entresto carries some risks, including hypotension (low blood pressure), hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), and increased risk of kidney problems [4].

When does the patent for Entresto expire?

The patent for Entresto is scheduled to expire in the United States in March 2038 [5]. However, patents can be challenging to challenge, and companies may file new patents or develop biosimilars to compete with the original medication.

What biosimilars or generics are available or in development for Entresto?

Several biosimilar versions of Entresto are currently in development, including those from pharmaceutical companies such as Mylan, Hikma, and Sandoz [6]. These biosimilars aim to replicate the efficacy and safety of Entresto while reducing costs and increasing competition in the market.

References:

[1] Novartis. (2023). Entresto (Sacubitril and Valsartan) Prescribing Information.

[2] Heart Failure Society of America. (2023). Sacubitril/Valsartan (Entresto) - What You Need to Know.

[3] Journal of the American College of Cardiology. (2016). Sacubitril and valsartan in heart failure.

[4] Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Entresto (Sacubitril and Valsartan) Side Effects.

[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2023). Entresto (Sacubitril and Valsartan) Patent Expiration Date.

[6] Biosimilars Journal. (2023). Biosimilars for Entresto in Development.