Generic lurasidone became available in the United States in May 2023 [1][2]. This marked the end of patent exclusivity for the brand-name drug, enabling generic versions to enter the market [1][3].
When did lurasidone's patent exclusivity end?
Lurasidone's primary patent protection in the U.S. expired around 2022-2023 [1][3]. However, the exact date of market entry for generics is often influenced by patent litigation and the resolution of any challenges to exclusivity [1]. Multiple generic manufacturers received FDA approval and launched their versions of lurasidone in May 2023 [2].
What other drugs are similar to lurasidone?
Lurasidone is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar depression [4]. Other atypical antipsychotics with similar uses include:
* Aripiprazole (Abilify)
* Brexpiprazole (Rexulti)
* Cariprazine (Vraylar)
* Lurasidone (Latuda)
* Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
* Quetiapine (Seroquel)
* Risperidone (Risperdal)
* Ziprasidone (Geodon) [5]
How does lurasidone work?
Lurasidone is believed to work by blocking dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain [4]. It also has affinity for serotonin 5-HT7 receptors, which may contribute to its efficacy in treating depression [4].
What are the side effects of lurasidone?
Common side effects of lurasidone include drowsiness, nausea, akathisia (restlessness), and weight gain [4]. More serious side effects can include metabolic changes (high blood sugar, cholesterol), tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements), and neuroleptic malignant syndrome [4].
How much does generic lurasidone cost?
The cost of generic lurasidone is generally lower than the brand-name drug, Latuda [3]. Exact pricing can vary significantly depending on the pharmacy, insurance coverage, and dosage [3].
Who makes generic lurasidone?
Several pharmaceutical companies have received FDA approval to manufacture and market generic versions of lurasidone, including Teva Pharmaceuticals, Aurobindo Pharma, and Accord Healthcare, among others [2].
Can biosimilars be used for lurasidone?
Lurasidone is a small-molecule drug, not a biologic. Therefore, the concept of biosimilars, which applies to biologic drugs, is not relevant to lurasidone. Generic versions are produced by chemical synthesis [6].
What is the difference between lurasidone and Latuda?
Latuda is the brand name under which lurasidone was originally marketed [1]. Generic lurasidone refers to the same active pharmaceutical ingredient produced by different manufacturers after the brand-name drug's patent protection expired [1][3].
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/lurasidone-generic-launch-date
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lurasidone
[4] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-164871/lurasidone-oral/details
[5] https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/schizophrenia/atypical-antipsychotics-list
[6] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/development-approval-process-drugs/biosimilars-faqs