See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Austedo
What is the estimated annual cost of Austedo?
The estimated annual cost of Austedo, a medication used to treat tardive dyskinesia and chorea associated with Huntington's disease, can vary significantly. For individuals without insurance or with high deductibles, the out-of-pocket cost can be substantial. Manufacturer coupons and patient assistance programs may help reduce this cost for eligible patients. For instance, a one-month supply could range from approximately $7,000 to over $8,000 before any discounts or assistance are applied [1]. This translates to an annual cost that could exceed $90,000.
How can patients reduce the cost of Austedo?
Patients seeking to lower the annual cost of Austedo may explore several options. The manufacturer, Teva Pharmaceuticals, offers a savings card program for eligible commercially insured patients, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs to as low as $0 for a one-month supply, with an annual maximum [1]. For uninsured or underinsured patients, Teva offers the Teva Patient Connections program, which provides free medication for eligible individuals who meet certain financial criteria [1]. Checking with individual insurance providers for coverage details and exploring formulary options is also a crucial step.
When does Austedo's patent expire?
Information regarding the specific patent expiry dates for Austedo is complex and subject to ongoing legal challenges. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks and provides data on drug patents and their expiration timelines. The landscape of patent protection for pharmaceuticals can involve multiple patents covering different aspects of a drug, such as its composition, method of use, and manufacturing processes [2]. Challenges to these patents can alter the timeline for generic competition.
Are there any generic alternatives to Austedo?
As of now, there are no FDA-approved generic alternatives for Austedo (deutetrabenazine). The availability of generic versions typically follows the expiration of relevant patents and any exclusivity periods granted. The development and approval of generic drugs can be a lengthy process.
How does Austedo work?
Austedo contains deutetrabenzine, which is a deuterium-modified version of tetrabenazine. It works by reversibly inhibiting the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) [3]. VMAT2 is a protein that plays a role in the transport of monoamines, such as dopamine, within the brain. By inhibiting VMAT2, deutetrabenazine reduces the amount of dopamine available for release into the synapse, which is believed to help control involuntary movements associated with tardive dyskinesia and Huntington's disease [3].
What are the potential side effects of Austedo?
Common side effects associated with Austedo include somnolence (drowsiness) and nasopharyngitis (common cold symptoms) [3]. More serious potential side effects can include depression, suicidal behavior or ideation, and parkinsonism. Patients should discuss any pre-existing mental health conditions with their doctor before starting Austedo. A boxed warning is in place regarding the risk of depression and suicidal ideation associated with the drug [3].
Who manufactures Austedo?
Austedo is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals [1].
What is tardive dyskinesia and how is it treated?
Tardive dyskinesia is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements. It is often a side effect of long-term use of antipsychotic medications. Austedo is one of the medications approved by the FDA for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia [3]. Treatment aims to manage and reduce the severity of the involuntary movements.
What is chorea associated with Huntington's disease?
Chorea is a symptom of Huntington's disease, a genetic neurodegenerative disorder that affects muscle coordination, leading to jerky, involuntary movements. Austedo is also approved for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington's disease, helping to control these hyperkinetic movements [3].
What is the difference between Austedo and other VMAT2 inhibitors?
Austedo contains deutetrabenazine, a deuterium-modified form of tetrabenazine. The deuterium modification in deutetrabenazine alters the drug's metabolic pathway, potentially leading to a more stable plasma concentration and a longer half-life compared to tetrabenazine. This difference in metabolism may influence dosing frequency and side effect profiles [3].
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Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/