Cost, effects, applications, dosage, and additional details on Voranigo
Voranigo is an oral medication prescribed primarily for adult and pediatric (12 years and older) patients with a rare and challenging type of brain tumor - astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas. These tumors are typically slowly growing, but they can invade nearby brain tissue [1].
This targeted cancer therapy works by hindering the abnormal function of certain enzymes within the brain tumor cells [1]. Voranigo is uniquely tailored to address tumors that possess a specific gene mutation - either isocitrate dehydrogenase-1 (IDH1) or isocitrate dehydrogenase-2 (IDH2) [1], [2].
The Science Behind Voranigo
These mutated IDH enzymes yield abnormal molecules that promote tumor growth [1]. Voranigo prevents these enzymes from functioning correctly, slowing the growth and spread of the malignant cells [1].
Getting Your Hands on Voranigo
less than 40 kg (about 88 pounds [lb])
Unfortunately, Voranigo is currently available only as a brand-name medication [1]. Generic versions of this medication have not been broadly released yet. However, you can discuss with your healthcare provider or pharmacy for the latest information regarding generic alternatives.
20 mg once per day
Pricing and Financial Assistance: ServierONE
The cost of any drug can vary based on factors like your location, insurance coverage, and pharmacy [1]. To alleviate the financial burden, a program called ServierONE is available for individuals in need of support [1]. This program offers copay assistance which may help lower the costs associated with Voranigo treatment. Reach out to ServierONE at 800-813-5905 or visit their website for more information on eligibility [1].
40 kg or more
Common Side Effects
40 mg once per day
Voranigo can cause both mild and significant side effects. While your healthcare provider is the best resource to discuss your specific situation, the following list provides a partial overview [1].
Mild Side Effects:
- fatigue
- headache
- nausea
- diarrhea
- constipation
- decreased appetite
- muscle or joint pain
- COVID-19
- liver issues (i.e., elevated liver enzymes)
Serious Side Effects:
• ciprofloxacin (Cipro)• cyclosporine (Neoral, others)• fluvoxamine (Luvox)• phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek)• rifampin (Rifadin, Rimatane)• hormonal forms of birth control, such as the combined pill, minipill, or patch
- liver problems (i.e., pain in upper right abdomen, loss of appetite, weakness, dark urine, and jaundice)
- seizures
In severe cases, seek immediate medical help or call 911 if you believe you or someone else is experiencing a life-threatening emergency [1].
WHAT TO KNOW
- Voranigo is a brand-name medication
- There are no generic versions widely available on the market as of the current information.
- It is an orally administered drug specifically designed for IDH-mutant gliomas, brain tumors with a specific genetic mutation.
- Copay assistance is available through the ServierONE program.
- Common side effects include fatigue, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle or joint pain. Severe side effects may require urgent medical attention.
- Voranigo is not available as a generic medication, making it a brand-name solution primarily for adult and pediatric patients with specific brain tumors like astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas.
- The science behind Voranigo revolves around its ability to target certain enzymes within brain tumor cells, particularly those with IDH1 or IDH2 mutations, thus slowing their growth and spread.
- Oncology is just one area where Voranigo may be prescribed, as it's a targeted cancer therapy for malignant cells in the brain.
- Managing the cost of Voranigo treatment can be challenging, but the ServierONE program offers copay assistance to help reduce financial burdens.
- In addition to addressing cancer, mental health, nutrition, skin care, fitness, and exercise are all crucial components of overall health-and-wellness.
- While Voranigo is primarily associated with cancer, it's important to remember that other brain disorders like neurological-disorders, mental-health issues, and various medical-conditions can also have a significant impact on one's life.
- When using Voranigo, patients should be mindful of potential side effects like fatigue, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle or joint pain, as well as more serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention.
