Cobenfy Is First New Psychosis Drug That Doesn’t Alter Dopamine Levels – How Much Will It Cost, Side Effects
For the first time in decades, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new type of drug for schizophrenia.
The drug is taken orally in tablet form twice a day and will be marketed under the name Cobenfy.
It does not alter dopamine levels
Its main advantage is that it appears to have fewer side effects than existing drugs. Common side effects of Cobenfy include nausea, constipation, and a fast heart rate.
Most schizophrenia medications, commonly known as antipsychotics, work by altering levels of dopamine, a brain chemical that affects mood, motivation and thinking.
Cobenfy takes a different approach by modulating acetylcholine, another brain chemical that aids memory, learning and attention.
“Schizophrenia is associated with excessive dopamine neurotransmission – so excessive dopamine activity,” explains Dr. Ann Shin, a psychiatrist and director of clinical research for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder at McLean Hospital near Boston.
Cobenfy is the first new drug for psychosis that does not alter dopamine levels.
How much will it cost?
The drug’s maker, Bristol Myers Squibb, said the drug will be available in the US from October and will cost $1,850 a month. While the new drug isn’t for everyone, it could help patients who have problems with existing treatments.
Source :Skai
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