A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Adtralza (tralokinumab) is a prescription medication engineered to provide targeted treatment for adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, who have not responded adequately to other systemic treatments. Tralokinumab is a human monoclonal antibody designed to specifically inhibit the interleukin-13 (IL-13) protein, a key cytokine involved in the inflammation and progression of atopic dermatitis. By blocking IL-13, Adtralza helps reduce the inflammatory response and alleviate the symptoms of eczema, including redness, swelling, and itching.
Before you buy Adtralza, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Adtralza cost.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | C6478H10018N1730O2018S46 (Tralokinumab) |
License | FDA and EMA approved |
Bioavailability | ~75% (Subcutaneous injection) |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Tralokinumab |
Elimination half-life | 22 days |
Dosage (Strength) | 150 mg/mL (solution for injection) |
Pregnancy | Use only if clearly needed |
Brands | Adtralza |
Protein binding | Not applicable (monoclonal antibody) |
PubChem CID | Not listed |
MedlinePlus | a621051 |
ChEBI | Not listed |
ATC code | D11AH06 |
DrugBank | DB11979 (Tralokinumab) |
KEGG | D11023 |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous |
Adtralza is administered via subcutaneous injection. Patients or caregivers should receive proper training in injection techniques before administering Adtralza. The standard dosage is 300 mg given every two weeks after an initial loading dose. Each dosage is delivered through two individual 150 mg injections. The injections should be administered in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm, with sites rotated and injections not given into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, or hard.
Starting Dose: Two 150 mg injections once a week for three consecutive weeks, followed by:
Maintenance Dose: Two injections of 150 mg administered bi-weekly.
Treatment continuation should be periodically reviewed by a healthcare provider, and adjustments to the dosage or frequency may be made based on clinical response and tolerability.
Each syringe of Adtralza contains 150 mg of tralokinumab in a 1 mL solution.
Before starting treatment with Adtralza, patients should discuss their medical history with their healthcare provider, particularly if they have any pre-existing conditions like infections or immune system problems.
Live vaccinations should be avoided during treatment with Adtralza.
It is not known whether Adtralza is safe and effective in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so patients in these categories should consult their healthcare provider.
Patients should also monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, angioedema, and urticaria, which can occur with Adtralza administration.
Any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or persistent sore throat, should be reported immediately, as Adtralza can increase susceptibility to infections.
Adtralza injection may interact with other medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of adverse effects. It is essential to inform the prescribing physician of all medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken before starting treatment with Adtralza. Particular attention should be given to any other immunosuppressive drugs, as the combination can further weaken the immune system.
Typical side effects of Adtralza consist of upper respiratory infections, conjunctivitis, reactions at the injection site like redness, swelling, and itching, as well as headaches. These side effects are generally mild to moderate and usually resolve without intervention.
What is Adtralza used for?
Adtralza (tralokinumab) is used to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy. It works by targeting and inhibiting interleukin-13 (IL-13), a cytokine involved in the inflammatory process of atopic dermatitis.
What are the side effects of Adtralza for eyes?
The primary ocular side effect associated with Adtralza is conjunctivitis (pink eye). Other possible eye-related side effects include eye irritation and keratitis (inflammation of the cornea).
How long does it take Adtralza to work?
Patients may start to see improvements in their symptoms as early as two weeks after starting treatment with Adtralza, although it can take up to 16 weeks to achieve the full therapeutic effect.
How effective is Adtralza?
Clinical studies have shown that Adtralza significantly improves the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Many patients experience a reduction in itch and an improvement in skin lesions, with some achieving clear or almost clear skin.
How to administer Adtralza?
Adtralza is administered via subcutaneous injection. The typical dosing regimen is an initial dose of 600 mg (four 150 mg injections), followed by 300 mg (two 150 mg injections) every other week. Patients can be trained to self-administer the injections or they can be given by a healthcare provider.
What are the side effects of the drug Adtralza?
Common side effects of Adtralza include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, injection site reactions, and conjunctivitis. Less common but more serious side effects can include hypersensitivity reactions.
Is tralokinumab approved by the FDA?
Yes, tralokinumab (Adtralza) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May 2021 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in adults.
Is tralokinumab safe?
Tralokinumab has been shown to be safe in clinical trials for its intended use. However, as with any medication, it carries potential risks and side effects, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
What are the benefits of tralokinumab?
The benefits of tralokinumab include significant reduction in the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, such as itching and skin lesions, which can lead to improved quality of life for patients. It is specifically designed to target IL-13, a key cytokine involved in the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis.
Is tralokinumab a biologic?
Yes, tralokinumab is a biologic medication. Biologics are derived from living organisms and are designed to target specific components of the immune system. Tralokinumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-13 (IL-13).