What is Yupelri and What Does It Treat?
Yupelri (revefenacin) is an inhaled long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) prescribed for the maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [1]. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe [1].
How is Yupelri Administered?
Yupelri is administered once daily using a vibrating mesh nebulizer, the [Ora] E-Flow nebulizer [1].
How Does Yupelri Work?
As a LAMA, Yupelri blocks the action of acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors in the airways. This blockade leads to bronchodilation, the widening of the airways, which is beneficial for individuals with COPD [1].
When Does Yupelri's Patent Protection End?
Drug patent information, including for Yupelri, is tracked by resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [2]. Specific patent expiry dates can be complex and may involve multiple patents covering different aspects of the drug, such as composition of matter, formulation, and method of use.
What are the Potential Side Effects of Yupelri?
Common side effects associated with Yupelri include nasopharyngitis (common cold symptoms), urinary tract infection, and oropharyngeal pain [1].
What Are the Risks Associated with Yupelri?
Yupelri carries a boxed warning regarding the risk of mono-therapy use in patients with asthma. LAMAs, including Yupelri, should not be used as monotherapy in patients with asthma due to the increased risk of asthma-related death [1]. Additionally, Yupelri may cause certain adverse effects such as acute angle closure glaucoma and urinary retention. Patients with pre-existing conditions such as narrow-angle glaucoma or bladder outlet obstruction should use Yupelri with caution [1].
How Does Yupelri Compare to Other COPD Treatments?
Yupelri is one of several LAMA medications available for COPD. Other LAMAs include tiotropium (Spiriva), umeclidinium (Incruse Ellipta), and aclidinium (Tudorza Pressair) [3]. The choice of medication often depends on individual patient needs, response to treatment, and administration preferences [3]. Yupelri's once-daily dosing via a nebulizer may be a distinguishing factor for some patients.
Can Yupelri Be Used for Asthma?
No, Yupelri is not indicated for the treatment of asthma. Its use in asthma monotherapy is associated with an increased risk of asthma-related death [1].
What is the Clinical Efficacy of Yupelri?
Clinical trials have demonstrated that Yupelri improves lung function in patients with COPD, as measured by the change from baseline in trough forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) [1].
What Is the Pricing and Availability of Yupelri?
Pricing and insurance coverage for Yupelri can vary. Patients are often advised to check with their insurance providers and pharmacies for the most up-to-date information on cost and availability. Manufacturer savings programs may also be available [1].
Sources:
[1] https://www.yupelri.com/
[2] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6363500/