Austedo (deuterated deutetrabenazine) is an oral medication used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia [1]. As of late 2023, a generic version of Austedo is not yet available [2].
When will Austedo go generic?
The patent expiry for Austedo is a key factor in when a generic version might become available. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the earliest expected patent expiry for Austedo is in 2027 [3]. However, patent litigation can extend or shorten this timeline.
How does Austedo work?
Austedo's active ingredient, deutetrabenazine, is a deuterium-modified form of tetrabenazine. It works by inhibiting the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) in the brain, which reduces the amount of dopamine available in nerve terminals. This reduction in dopamine helps to control involuntary movements like chorea [1].
What is the difference between Austedo and Xenazine?
Austedo is a deuterated version of tetrabenazine, the active ingredient in Xenazine. Deuteration can alter how a drug is metabolized in the body, potentially leading to a different efficacy or side effect profile compared to its non-deuterated counterpart. Austedo was developed to offer a different pharmacokinetic profile than tetrabenazine [1].
What are the side effects of Austedo?
Common side effects associated with Austedo include drowsiness, insomnia, and upper respiratory tract infection. More serious potential side effects can include depression, suicidal thoughts, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and parkinsonism [1]. Patients with Huntington's disease may have an increased risk of depression and suicidal thoughts [4].
Who makes Austedo?
Austedo is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals [1].
How much does Austedo cost?
The cost of Austedo can be substantial. Without insurance, a month's supply can cost several thousand dollars. Prescription assistance programs may be available for eligible patients [5].
What is the active ingredient in Austedo?
The active ingredient in Austedo is deutetrabenazine [1].
Can Austedo be used for other conditions?
Austedo is approved for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia [1].
What are the risks of taking Austedo?
Key risks associated with Austedo include the potential for depression and suicidal ideation, especially in patients with Huntington's disease. It can also cause or worsen parkinsonism and may lead to a rare but serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome [1][4].
What is deuterium labeling in drugs?
Deuterium labeling involves replacing some hydrogen atoms in a drug molecule with deuterium, a heavier isotope of hydrogen. This modification can change the drug's metabolic pathway in the body. By slowing down certain metabolic processes, deuterium labeling can potentially extend a drug's half-life, alter its potency, or reduce the formation of active or toxic metabolites, thereby improving its therapeutic profile [6].
What is Huntington's disease?
Huntington's disease is a rare, inherited neurodegenerative disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It affects a person's physical and mental abilities. Chorea, characterized by involuntary, irregular, or writhing movements, is a common symptom [7].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugs.com/austedo.html
[2] https://www.goodrx.com/austedo
[3] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[4] https://www.rxlist.com/austedo-side-effects-drug-center.htm
[5] https://www.advocatehealth.com/health-library/86958
[6] https://www.nature.com/articles/nrd.2017.260
[7] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/huntingtons-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20356117