What is Alkermes aripiprazole lauroxil?
Alkermes aripiprazole lauroxil is an injectable, long-acting medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder in adults [1]. It is a prodrug of aripiprazole, meaning it is converted into aripiprazole in the body [2]. The medication is administered intramuscularly by a healthcare professional [1].
How does aripiprazole lauroxil work?
Aripiprazole lauroxil is a prodrug of aripiprazole, a dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist, and a serotonin 5-HT2A receptor antagonist [2]. Once injected, the lauroxil ester is hydrolyzed to release active aripiprazole into the bloodstream over time, providing sustained plasma concentrations [2]. This mechanism of action is believed to help manage symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder by modulating the activity of dopamine and serotonin in the brain [2].
When does the patent for aripiprazole lauroxil expire?
The patent exclusivity for aripiprazole lauroxil has faced challenges [3]. Based on available information, patent expiry dates are critical for understanding market entry of generics. DrugPatentWatch.com provides detailed information on patent statuses and expiry timelines [3].
What are the approved uses for aripiprazole lauroxil?
Aripiprazole lauroxil is approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in adult patients and for the treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in adult patients [1]. It is also used as maintenance treatment for bipolar I disorder in adult patients [1].
How is aripiprazole lauroxil administered?
Alkermes aripiprazole lauroxil is administered as an intramuscular injection [1]. It is available in different dosage strengths and is intended for long-acting administration [1]. Dosing and administration frequency are determined by a healthcare professional [1].
What are the potential side effects of aripiprazole lauroxil?
Common side effects associated with aripiprazole lauroxil include insomnia, headache, and injection site pain [1]. More serious potential side effects can include movement disorders, changes in metabolic function (such as high blood sugar and diabetes), and an increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [1]. Patients should discuss any concerns about side effects with their prescribing physician [1].
What are the alternatives to aripiprazole lauroxil?
Alternatives for treating schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder include other antipsychotic medications, both oral and injectable, and in different formulations [4]. These may include other long-acting injectables, atypical antipsychotics, and typical antipsychotics [4]. The choice of treatment depends on individual patient needs, response to therapy, and physician recommendations [4].
What is the difference between aripiprazole and aripiprazole lauroxil?
Aripiprazole is the active drug, while aripiprazole lauroxil is a prodrug [2]. Aripiprazole lauroxil is formulated as an injectable ester that is slowly hydrolyzed in the body to release aripiprazole [2]. This allows for sustained therapeutic levels of aripiprazole with less frequent dosing compared to oral aripiprazole [2].
Who manufactures aripiprazole lauroxil?
Alkermes plc is the company that developed and manufactures aripiprazole lauroxil, marketed under the brand name Aristada [5].
How does Aristada compare to other long-acting antipsychotics?
Aristada (aripiprazole lauroxil) is one of several long-acting injectable antipsychotic options available [4]. It differs in its active ingredient (aripiprazole) and its pharmacokinetic profile, which dictates its dosing frequency and duration of action [2][4]. Other long-acting injectables may contain different active agents like risperidone, paliperidone, or haloperidol, each with its own clinical profile and administration schedule [4].
Sources
1. https://www.rxlist.com/aristada-drug.htm
2. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/aripiprazole-lauroxil
3. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4300604/
5. https://www.alkermes.com/