See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Onivyde
Onivyde is a brand-name medication used to treat pancreatic cancer. It is a liposomal formulation of irinotecan hydrochloride, a topoisomerase I inhibitor. Onivyde is typically administered intravenously and is often used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs, such as fluorouracil and leucovorin, as a second-line treatment for metastatic adenocarcinoma of the pancreas [1].
How does Onivyde work?
Onivyde's mechanism of action involves the active ingredient irinotecan. Irinotecan is a prodrug that is converted in the body to its active metabolite, SN-38. SN-38 then inhibits topoisomerase I, an enzyme essential for DNA replication and repair. By inhibiting this enzyme, irinotecan leads to DNA damage and cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cancer cells [1]. The liposomal formulation is designed to alter the drug's pharmacokinetic profile, potentially affecting its distribution and duration of action.
What is Onivyde approved for?
Onivyde is approved for adult patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the pancreas who have been previously treated with gemcitabine-based chemotherapy [1]. It is indicated as part of a combination regimen with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and leucovorin (LV) [1].
When might Onivyde patents expire?
Information on specific patent expiry dates for Onivyde is available through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com, which tracks patent information for pharmaceutical products [2]. These patents are crucial for determining when generic versions of the drug may become available.
What are the potential side effects of Onivyde?
Common side effects associated with Onivyde treatment include diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, stomatitis (mouth sores), and fever [1]. Diarrhea is a significant side effect that can be severe and may require medical intervention. Patients should report any new or worsening side effects to their healthcare provider promptly.
How is Onivyde administered?
Onivyde is given as an intravenous infusion, typically over 90 minutes [1]. The dosage and schedule are determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's condition and response to treatment. It is crucial that Onivyde is administered in a setting equipped to manage potential infusion reactions [1].
What are the alternatives to Onivyde for pancreatic cancer?
Several chemotherapy regimens are used to treat pancreatic cancer, depending on the stage of the disease and whether it is the first-line or second-line treatment. Alternatives may include other irinotecan-based regimens, gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel, or FOLFIRINOX (a combination of 5-FU, leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin) [3]. The choice of treatment is individualized.
Who manufactures Onivyde?
Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. is the company that markets Onivyde in the United States [1].
Sources:
[1] https://www.onivyde.com/
[2] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[3] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/pancreatic-cancer/treatment/chemotherapy.html