| Common Brands | Austedo, Austedo XR |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
VMAT2 inhibitor |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
No Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Austedo XR is the extended-release version of Austedo. The active ingredient within it is deutetrabenazine. Tardive Dyskinesia, or TD, and chorea of Huntington’s disease are conditions characterized by involuntary movements that are repetitive.
Since the Austedo formulation is immediate-release, the extension release in the XR formulation can provide the drug gradually to give a smoother, more sustained effect.
Austedo XR, like the original Austedo, functions by reducing dopaminergic activity in the brain-to-control involuntary movements-parkerian / dystonic/ athetosic spasms as seen in these conditions
Austedo XR should be taken only as prescribed, and the extended-release form allows for the administration of once-daily dosing, potentially improving patient adherence to the treatment plan.
Dosage Instructions: Austedo XR is administered once daily, with or without food. The initial dose is about 12 mg per day, and it can be titrated according to the patient’s response and tolerance. Dose increase can be tapered, and the highest tolerated dose is about 48 mg per day.
Swallow the tablet: Take the tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet. This can upset the extended-release mechanism and lead to inappropriate drug release.
Dose Titration: The doctor can titrate the dose in 12-mg increments to control the symptoms while minimizing side effects, considering the patient’s response and tolerability.
Like the original Austedo, the Austedo XR acts by depleting dopamine in the brain, whose reduction helps dampen the movements of hyperkinetia occurring in such conditions as TD and Huntington’s chorea.
Austedo XR deutetrabenazine inhibits the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) protein, which stores the neurotransmitter dopamine in cells and in other nerve cells. By inhibiting VMAT2, Austedo XR decreases the amount of available neurotransmitter at the site of the synapse to correct this imbalance, resulting in reducing movements.
The extended release formulation of Austedo XR is more slowly released into the bloodstream, so the drug is absorbed over a longer period of time with once-daily dosing and gives more consistent therapeutic levels across the day. his sustained release would likely reduce peaks and troughs in drug concentration, minimizing fluctuating side effects and symptom control.
Although Austedo XR may bring various benefits, it may have some side effects. The side effects of Austedo XR are the same as that of the immediate release drug but may change the frequency or severity of some of the side effects in the extended-release formulation.
Common Side Effects
Drowsiness or Sedation: Feeling drowsy or sleepy is a common complaint, especially when the medication is initiated or dosage is escalated.
Fatigue: The patient may simply feel too tired or have low energy.
Depression or Mood Changes: Austedo XR can indeed cause mood changes that might manifest as depression or anxiety. Indeed, significant changes should be communicated to a doctor.
Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): These can include rigidity, tremors, and movement disorders. These symptoms appear in a small number of patients.
Suicidal Thoughts: Austedo XR has been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, particularly in individuals with Huntington’s disease. Close monitoring for depression or suicidal behavior is necessary.
Caution with Other Medications: Austedo XR may interact with other medications, especially those affecting the central nervous system, such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, and sedatives..
Liver Impairment: Austedo XR should be used with caution in patients with liver problems, as the liver processes the medication. Dose adjustments may be needed for patients with moderate or severe liver impairment.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Similar to Austedo, taking Austedo XR with MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) can lead to dangerous side effects, including high blood pressure, serotonin syndrome, or other severe neurological issues.
CYP2D6 Inhibitors: Drugs that inhibit the CYP2D6 enzyme (like fluoxetine or paroxetine) can increase the levels of Austedo XR in the body, raising the risk of side effects like sedation, dizziness, or movement problems.
Antidepressants: When combined with certain antidepressants, especially SSRIs, there is an increased risk of serotonin syndrome, which can cause symptoms like agitation, confusion, and rapid heart rate.
Central Nervous System Depressants: Taking Austedo XR with other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, or alcohol, can enhance sedative effects, leading to excessive drowsiness, respiratory depression, or even coma.
The dosing of Austedo XR should be individualized, based on the condition being treated and the patient’s response. General guidelines include the following:
For Tardive Dyskinesia (TD): The usual starting dose is 12 mg/day. The dose should be titrated up over time by increasing in increments of 12 mg/day as tolerated, to a maximum of 48 mg/day.
For Huntington’s Disease Chorea: This has a starting dose that is usually 12 mg per day. Dosage needs to be adjusted according to response and tolerance. Maintenance dosages should be at 24-48 mg per day.
This is a prescription drug, and only a doctor can prescribe it. The prescribing doctor will examine the patient’s symptoms, medical history, or other drugs before he can prescribe Austedo XR for a patient.
Austedo XR is an extended-release formulation of deutetrabenazine, used to treat movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia and chorea associated with Huntington’s disease.
Austedo XR offers an extended-release mechanism, allowing for once-daily dosing, which helps maintain stable blood levels of the medication throughout the day compared to the standard formulation.
Austedo XR is primarily prescribed for:
The dosage of Austedo XR varies depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. Starting doses are typically lower, with adjustments made based on response and tolerability.
Common side effects of Austedo XR may include:
Austedo XR should be taken exactly as prescribed, typically once daily, with or without food. It’s important to swallow the tablet whole without breaking or chewing.
Always discuss your current medications with your healthcare provider before starting Austedo XR, as certain drug interactions can occur, particularly with other CNS-active medications.
Austedo XR is not considered addictive, but any concerns regarding dependency should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.
The safety of Austedo XR during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been established. Consult your healthcare provider before using it in these situations.
Austedo XR should not be taken by individuals with:
Patients may notice improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks. Full therapeutic effects may take longer and should be monitored by a healthcare provider.
Yes, Austedo XR can lead to mood changes, including depression. It’s important to monitor and report any significant mood alterations to your healthcare provider.
Yes, discontinuing Austedo XR abruptly may lead to withdrawal symptoms. It’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider for a tapered discontinuation plan if needed.
There are no strict dietary restrictions with Austedo XR, but it’s better to avoid alcohol, as it can amplify side effects like drowsiness.
Long-term use of Austedo XR may lead to changes in mood, weight gain, or potentially new movement disorders. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential.
Insurance coverage for Austedo XR can vary. It’s advisable to contact your insurance provider for information regarding your specific plan.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious side effects such as seizures, severe dizziness, or signs of an allergic reaction.
Austedo XR may cause drowsiness and affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Assess how the medication affects you before engaging in these activities.
For additional information about Austedo XR, consult your healthcare provider or refer to the official medication guide and reputable medical sources.
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