Summary
Fanapt's unique mechanism of action and favorable side effect profile may help to improve patient compliance.
Analysis
Fanapt is a new Atypical antipsychotic medication which was approved by the FDA on May 6,2009. It is also known as Iloperidone and Zomaril. Like most Atypicals it is thought to have a lower risk of Tardive Dyskinesia and EPS. It is an antagonist of dopamine( D2a and D3) and serotonin( 5-HT1a and 5-HT6) receptors. It is 95 % protein bond with a halt life of 18-33 hours. It has hepatic metabolism through CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. It will be available in oral and injectable formulations. The early data shows efficacy rates similar to Geodon. It also seems to share some other favorable traits with Geodon in that it may have a reduced risk of weight gain. This is a very crucial issue for patients and it is a common reason why schizophrenics stop their medication. If the early data holds up then this may be a big advantage for patients taking Fanapt. This lack of weight gain with Fanapt may also lower the chance of metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Common side effects include sedation and hypotension. Both of these side effects are reduced if the drug is co-administered with food.Currently it is too early to tell but the implications seem to give Fanapt and important advantage over other Atypical antipsychotics that are currently available. Fanapt will be co-marketed by Vanda Pharmaceuticals and Novartis Pharmaceuticals. If the early data holds up than Fanapt stands to capture a significant market share and will offer new hope for a devastating illness.
