Atomoxetine, a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is the first nonstimulant agent approved for the treatment of ADHD (Strattera, Lilly). It has been approved for use in pediatric and adult patients. Atomoxetine improves ADHD symptom severity versus placebo, as evaluated by the ADHD Rating Scale (ADHD RS), and its efficacy appears comparable to immediate-release methylphenidate. Atomoxetine requires dosage titration and may be administered once or twice daily. Common side effects seen in both pediatric and adult patients include nausea, decreased appetite, and dizziness. Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients receiving atomoxetine and cytochrome P450 2D6 inhibitors. Based on average wholesale price (AWP), atomoxetine is more costly than existing ADHD therapies. Atomoxetine provides an alternative ADHD therapy for patients who may fail or cannot tolerate conventional treatments.
David Calabrese of OptumRx Talks Top Three Drugs in Pipeline, Industry Trends in Q2
July 1st 2020In this week's episode of Tuning Into The C-Suite podcast, MHE's Briana Contreras chatted with David Calabrese, R.Ph, MHP, who is senior vice president and chief pharmacy officer of pharmacy care services company, OptumRx. David is also a member of Managed Healthcare Executives’ Editorial Advisory Board. During the discussion, he shared the OptumRx Quarter 2 Drug Pipeline Insights Report of 2020. Some of the information shared includes the three notable drugs currently being reviewed or those that have been recently approved by the FDA. Also discussed were any interesting industry trends to watch for.
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