OXBRYTA 500mg Tablet/ Film coated

What is OXBRYTA 500mg

OXBRYTA 500mg is a film-coated oral tablet that contains the active ingredient Voxelotor. It is primarily indicated for the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD) in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older. This medication is designed to improve hemoglobin levels and reduce the destruction of red blood cells associated with SCD.

• Generic Name: Voxelotor
• Therapeutic Class: Hemoglobin S polymerization inhibitor
• Formulation: Oral tablet, film-coated
• Packaging: Supplied in a 90-count HDPE bottle

Voxelotor offers a novel approach by directly targeting the root cause of SCD — hemoglobin polymerization — thereby reducing anemia and associated complications.

How to use OXBRYTA 500mg

OXBRYTA should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken once daily by mouth.

• Take the tablets whole with or without food.
• Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets.
• Try to take it at the same time each day for consistency.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered on the same day. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next one — do not double dose.

Always follow your physician’s instructions and read the patient leaflet provided with the medication.

Mode of Action OXBRYTA 500mg

Voxelotor works by inhibiting the polymerization of sickle hemoglobin (HbS), the root cause of sickling in red blood cells.

• Voxelotor binds to hemoglobin: It increases the oxygen affinity of hemoglobin, stabilizing it in the oxygenated state.
• Prevents sickling: By keeping hemoglobin in an oxygen-rich state, voxelotor reduces the tendency of red blood cells to form the characteristic sickle shape.
• Reduces hemolysis: Healthier-shaped red blood cells survive longer in circulation, reducing hemolysis and anemia.

This mechanism helps maintain higher hemoglobin levels and reduces complications like vaso-occlusive crises and fatigue.

OXBRYTA 500mg Interactions OXBRYTA 500mg

OXBRYTA can interact with other medications, especially those that affect liver enzymes (CYP3A4).

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin): May increase voxelotor levels and risk of side effects.
• Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin, carbamazepine): May decrease voxelotor effectiveness.
• Other SCD medications: Can be used in combination with hydroxyurea or blood transfusions under supervision.
• Food and alcohol: No significant food interaction, but alcohol should be minimized as it may increase side effects like dizziness or nausea.

Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.

Dosage of OXBRYTA 500mg

The recommended dose and administration of OXBRYTA depend on the patient's age and weight.

• Adults and pediatric patients ≥12 years: 1,500 mg orally once daily (i.e., 3 tablets of 500 mg).
• Children 4 to <12 years: Dose is weight-based and should be determined by a healthcare provider.
• Renal or hepatic impairment: Use with caution; dose adjustment may be needed in severe impairment.

Patients should remain on regular monitoring to evaluate their hemoglobin levels and organ function during therapy.

Possible side effects of OXBRYTA 500mg

Like all medications, OXBRYTA may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them.

• Very common: Headache, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and rash
• Common: Fatigue, fever, back pain, and joint pain
• Laboratory abnormalities: Increased liver enzymes (ALT/AST), decreased white blood cell counts
• Allergic reactions: Rare, but may include swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing

Report any unusual or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider immediately. Periodic blood tests may be required to monitor your health during treatment.

OXBRYTA 500mg Contraindications OXBRYTA 500mg

OXBRYTA is generally well-tolerated, but its use is contraindicated in certain conditions:

• Known hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with known allergy to voxelotor or any component of the formulation.
• Severe hepatic impairment: Use should be avoided or administered with caution due to altered metabolism.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Data are limited; use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.

Always review your full medical history with your physician before initiating therapy with OXBRYTA.

Storage of OXBRYTA 500mg

Proper storage ensures the safety and efficacy of the medication.

• Temperature: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C.
• Container: Keep in the original HDPE bottle with the desiccant to protect from moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use: If the tablets appear discolored or degraded, or beyond the expiration date.

Do not dispose of medication in wastewater or household trash. Ask your pharmacist how to properly dispose of unused medicine.