See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Fludarabine
Fludarabine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of leukemia, specifically chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). It is also used in bone marrow transplantation [1].
What are the brand names for fludarabine?
Fludarabine is marketed under several brand names. The most common brand name for fludarabine phosphate is Fludara [2][3]. It is also available under the generic name fludarabine [4].
Who manufactures fludarabine?
The original developer and marketer of Fludara was Berlex Laboratories, which is now part of Merck & Co. [5]. Currently, fludarabine is available from multiple manufacturers as both branded and generic products.
When does fludarabine's patent expire?
The patent protection for fludarabine has expired, allowing for the availability of generic versions of the drug [6]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent expirations for pharmaceuticals, indicating that fludarabine is no longer under patent exclusivity [6].
How does fludarabine work?
Fludarabine is an antimetabolite that works by interfering with the synthesis of DNA and RNA [1]. It is incorporated into DNA, inhibiting DNA synthesis and repair, and also inhibits RNA synthesis. This ultimately leads to cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cancer cells [7].
What are the potential side effects of fludarabine?
Like many chemotherapy drugs, fludarabine can cause significant side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, and fatigue [1]. More serious side effects can include myelosuppression, which means a decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, increasing the risk of infection, anemia, and bleeding [8]. Neurotoxicity is also a potential concern [9].
Can fludarabine be used for other conditions?
While primarily used for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and in bone marrow transplantation, fludarabine's mechanism of action against rapidly dividing cells has led to its investigation in other hematological malignancies [1][10].
Are there alternatives to fludarabine for CLL?
For chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), there are now several alternative treatment options available, including targeted therapies and other chemotherapies. These alternatives may offer different efficacy profiles, side effect burdens, and administration routes compared to fludarabine [11].
How is fludarabine administered?
Fludarabine is typically administered intravenously (IV) [3]. It can also be given orally in some formulations [4].
What is the cost of fludarabine?
The cost of fludarabine can vary significantly depending on whether it is the branded product (Fludara) or a generic version, as well as the dosage and quantity prescribed. Generic versions are generally less expensive than branded medications [4].
Sources
1. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/patient-education/chemotherapyandyou.pdf
2. https://www.drugs.com/fludara.html
3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5235/fludara-oral/details
4. https://www.goodrx.com/fludarabine
5. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/779905/000077990505000047/blux063005.htm
6. https://drugpatentwatch.com/
7. https://www.cancerresearch.org/about-cancer/treatment/types/chemotherapy/how-chemotherapy-works
8. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/fludarabine-injection-route/side-effects/dr-20063865
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3888747/
10. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/chronic-lymphocytic-leukemia/treatment
11. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmcp2107171