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.
Aduhelm (Aducanumab) is a treatment approved by the FDA specifically for patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This medication is a monoclonal antibody designed to target and reduce amyloid beta plaques, which are believed to play a crucial role in the progressive cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. By targeting these plaques, Aduhelm aims to slow the progression of the disease, potentially improving the quality of life for patients in the preliminary stages of Alzheimer's.
Before you buy Aduhelm , it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Aduhelm price.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Generic Name | Aducanumab |
Brand Name | Aduhelm |
License | FDA approved |
Legal Status | Prescription Drug |
Drug Class | Monoclonal antibody (anti-amyloid) |
Indication | Alzheimer's disease |
Dosage Form | Intravenous infusion |
Dosage (Strength) | 170 mg/1.7 mL or 300 mg/3 mL solution |
Routes of Administration | Intravenous |
Pregnancy | Not recommended unless clearly necessary |
PubChem CID | 167333703 |
ATC Code | N06DX55 |
DrugBank | DB11929 |
KEGG | D11553 |
Aduhelm is administered as an intravenous infusion over approximately one hour. The recommended dosage starts with a titration phase to minimize the risk of side effects. Treatment typically begins with a lower dose, gradually increasing to the full dosage based on patient tolerance. The infusion solution should be prepared by healthcare professionals following strict aseptic techniques and used immediately once prepared.
Active Ingredient: Aducanumab.
Before starting Aduhelm, discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have:
Patients undergoing treatment should have periodic brain MRI scans to monitor for amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), which are side effects associated with treatments that target amyloid beta. Signs of ARIA include temporary swelling in areas of the brain and small spots of bleeding, particularly in the earlier phases of treatment.
To date, specific drug-drug interactions with Aduhelm have not been fully characterized. However, given the nature of its action on the brain, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you are currently taking. Special caution should be noted when using other medications that affect the immune system or cause blood thinning as they may increase the risk of side effects.
The use of Aduhelm Alzheimer's medication can be associated with several side effects, the most significant being amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). Other side effects include:
Patients and caregivers should be vigilant for any new symptoms or worsening of existing conditions and report them to the healthcare provider immediately.
What is Aduhelm?
Aduhelm (aducanumab) is a prescription drug used to treat Alzheimer’s disease.
How does Aduhelm work?
Aduhelm works by targeting and reducing amyloid-beta plaques, a key sign of Alzheimer’s disease, in the brain.
How effective is Aduhelm?
Studies have shown that Aduhelm can reduce amyloid-beta plaques in the brain. However, its effectiveness in slowing cognitive decline has been modest and seen only in a subset of patients.
How is Aduhelm administered?
Aduhelm is administered as an intravenous infusion over approximately one hour every four weeks.
How successful is Aduhelm?
Aduhelm has shown some success in slowing the deterioration of cognitive skills in clinical trials, but it does not reverse memory loss.
How safe is Aduhelm?
Aduhelm can cause some serious health issues, including temporary brain swelling or bleeding. However, these usually clear up with time.
How long do you have to take Aduhelm?
Aduhelm is typically taken once a month for the rest of the patient’s life.
Is Aduhelm FDA approved?
Yes, Aduhelm was approved by the FDA under the Accelerated Approval pathway in 2021.