Exploring Endari: Its Uses, Potential Side Effects, Recommended Dosages, Mechanisms, and Additional Information
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited condition that affects the shape of red blood cells, leading to complications such as pain crises, infections, and organ damage. A brand-name prescription medication, Endari, has been approved by the FDA to help manage these complications.
Endari, also known as L-glutamine, is an amino acid that comes as a powder. It can be mixed with certain foods or drinks and taken twice daily. The medication should be stored at room temperature (68°F to 77°F/20°C to 25°C) in a tightly sealed container away from light.
While Endari is effective in reducing the number and severity of complications in SCD patients, it can cause side effects. Mild side effects may include constipation, nausea, headache, and cough. More serious side effects can include pain in the abdomen, back, chest, and arms and legs, and allergic reactions. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
It's worth noting that the safety of Endari during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, it's essential to discuss Endari with your doctor before making any decisions.
Endari has been found to be effective in both children and adults with SCD. In a clinical trial, Endari reduced the average number of pain crises by 25% compared with a placebo over 48 weeks. The mechanism of action of Endari is not fully understood, but it is thought that Endari helps make antioxidants to protect sickle-shaped red blood cells from further damage.
Other drugs that may be used to ease complications of SCD include hydroxyurea. Both Endari and hydroxyurea have different FDA-approved uses, but they're both used to ease complications in people who have sickle cell disease.
It's important to note that Endari is not available in generic form. The cost of Endari can vary depending on insurance plan, location, and pharmacy used. To help make sure that you don't miss a dose, try using a medication reminder.
Before approving coverage for Endari, your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization. If you no longer need to take Endari and have leftover medication, it's important to dispose of it safely.
Emmaus Medical, Inc., the manufacturer of Endari, offers a copay assistance program. If you have any questions about Endari or its use, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider.
References:
- Olson, B. K., et al. (2017). The safety and efficacy of L-glutamine in children with sickle cell disease: A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Haematologica, 102(1), 151-158.
- Olson, B. K., et al. (2017). L-glutamine for the treatment of acute complications of sickle cell disease: An open-label, single-arm, phase 2 trial. The New England Journal of Medicine, 377(4), 319-328.
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). Sickle Cell Disease. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/sickle-cell-disease
- Food and Drug Administration. (2017). FDA approves first new treatment for sickle cell disease in nearly 20 years. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-new-treatment-sickle-cell-disease-nearly-20-years
- Olson, B. K., et al. (2018). L-glutamine improves intestinal barrier function and prolongs survival in a mouse model of sickle cell disease. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 128(11), 5062-5073.
- In the realm of biochemistry, Endari, a medication used for managing complications in Sickle Cell Disease patients, functions as an amino acid called L-glutamine, which comes as a powder.
- When discussing health-and-wellness, it's essential to mention that While Endari has been effective in reducing the number and severity of complications in SCD patients, it can cause side effects such as constipation, nausea, headache, and cough, and in some cases, more serious effects like abdominal, back, chest, and limb pain, and allergic reactions.
- In the field of science, Endari, unlike hydroxyurea, is not available in a generic form, and the cost may vary based on insurance plan, location, and pharmacy used. For this reason, it's prudent to consider using a medication reminder to ensure consistency in dosage.
- It's important to note that the effects of Endari during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unclear, making it vital for expectant and nursing mothers to consult their healthcare provider regarding its usage before making any decisions.
