Tardive dyskinesia, a challenging neurological disorder marked by involuntary movements, often arises from long-term antipsychotic use. Austedo, a VMAT2 inhibitor, offers promising relief, significantly reducing symptoms and enhancing quality of life. With robust patient support and proven long-term efficacy, Austedo emerges as a vital option for managing this condition effectively.
Understanding Tardive Dyskinesia and Its Impact
Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements, often affecting the face, tongue, and limbs. These movements can be distressing and significantly impact a person’s quality of life. TD is commonly associated with long-term use of certain psychiatric medications, particularly antipsychotics. The condition can be challenging to manage, and finding effective treatments is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
How Austedo Alleviates Tardive Dyskinesia Symptoms
Austedo, a VMAT2 inhibitor, has emerged as a promising treatment for managing the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Austedo can significantly reduce involuntary movements in patients with TD. In a 12-week clinical study, over 70% of participants experienced at least a 10% reduction in abnormal involuntary movements, as measured by the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) (source). This reduction in symptoms can lead to improved daily functioning and quality of life for patients.
Austedo XR, an extended-release version, offers additional benefits by providing flexibility in treatment plans. It can begin reducing TD movements in some patients as early as two weeks and can be taken alongside most mental health medications (source). This compatibility with existing mental health treatments makes Austedo a versatile option for many patients.
Long-term Efficacy and Safety of Austedo
Long-term studies have shown that Austedo provides consistent improvement in movement symptoms and has established safety results. In an open-label extension study, patients continued to experience symptom improvement over a three-year period (source). Additionally, 96% of patients continued treatment without needing to reduce their dose due to side effects, indicating a favorable safety profile (source).
However, it is important to monitor for potential side effects, particularly in patients with Huntington’s disease, as Austedo may increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts (source). Common side effects in people with tardive dyskinesia include nasopharyngitis and insomnia, with additional side effects like sleepiness and restlessness also reported (source).
Patient Support and Accessibility
Teva Shared Solutions® is a comprehensive patient support program designed to assist individuals prescribed Austedo XR for tardive dyskinesia. The program offers a range of services, including financial assistance, insurance navigation, and nurse support, to ensure patients can start and maintain their treatment effectively (source). More than 90% of patients pay $10 or less per month for Austedo XR, thanks to the financial assistance options provided by Shared Solutions, making the treatment accessible to a wider range of patients (source).
Shared Solutions also provides ongoing nurse support to help patients understand tardive dyskinesia and Austedo XR, manage their treatment plans, and ensure adherence to medication regimens. This support includes education on dosing, refill management, and tools to help patients stay on track with their treatment goals (source).
Why You Should Learn More About Austedo Tardive Dyskinesia Today
Understanding the impact of tardive dyskinesia and the potential benefits of treatments like Austedo is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike. Austedo offers a targeted approach to managing the symptoms of TD, with clinical studies supporting its efficacy and safety. The availability of patient support programs further enhances its accessibility, making it a viable option for many individuals affected by this condition. By staying informed about the latest treatment options, patients can make more informed decisions about their healthcare and improve their quality of life.