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Neurocrine Biosciences Presents Meaningful Data on VMAT2 Inhibitors and Tardive Dyskinesia

Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. has recently shared significant findings from a comprehensive real-world study concerning the efficacy of VMAT2 inhibitors for patients suffering from tardive dyskinesia (TD). The study highlights a crucial difference in therapeutic dose attainment between two primary treatments: INGREZZA® (valbenazine) and deutetrabenazine.

These findings were announced in a presentation at the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy 2025 Annual Meeting taking place in Houston, Texas. The data paints a promising picture for the use of INGREZZA, which has been shown to achieve a therapeutic dose from the very first day of treatment, setting it apart from deutetrabenazine, which experienced slower progress in patients reaching effective dosing levels.

Study Overview

The retrospective cohort study analyzed treatment administration patterns for527 patients undergoing treatment with INGREZZA. In comparison, 2,166 patients received daily dosing of deutetrabenazine, while a smaller group of 326 utilized a prolonged-release form of the same medication. The patients' progress was assessed over a defined six-month span to gauge dosage efficacy and attainment times.

Key Findings and Implications

Dr. Eiry W. Roberts, Chief Medical Officer of Neurocrine Biosciences, stated, "These results emphasize the practical applications and advantages of VMAT2 inhibitors in the management of tardive dyskinesia. The potential for INGREZZA to offer therapeutic efficacy from day one significantly eases clinician and patient pressure regarding dosage adjustments over time."

1. Therapeutic Dose Achievement: The study confirmed that 100% of patients treated with INGREZZA reached a therapeutic dose upon initial treatment, a sharp contrast to the results for deutetrabenazine where only 47.5% of BID patients and 54.3% of XR patients managed to reach therapeutic levels within the same timeframe.

2. Dosing Adjustments: Additionally, the findings revealed fewer dose changes among patients treated with INGREZZA compared to those on deutetrabenazine. This consistent dosing could lead to improved patient stability and treatment efficacy over the long term.

3. Adjustment Rates: A notable statistic from the study indicated that 33.7% of INGREZZA-treated patients had to change their dosage after the first month, compared to nearly 48.1% and 54.0% of those treated with deutetrabenazine twice daily and extended release respectively. These findings underscore the stability of the treatment with INGREZZA.

Understanding Tardive Dyskinesia

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder, manifesting in involuntary, uncontrolled movements that can severely impact quality of life. Historically, TD arises from the use of antipsychotic medications that interfere with dopamine receptors, commonly prescribed for mental health conditions. This disruption in dopamine signaling complicates movement control, leading to the severe physical manifestations seen in TD patients.

The Significance of INGREZZA® and Its Development

INGREZZA offers a revolutionary approach to treating tardive dyskinesia, with FDA approval as a selective VMAT2 inhibitor. Valbenazine operates by inhibiting excessive dopamine release specifically at the VMAT2 level, offering hope for those affected by TD. Its unique delivery allows patients to experience effective dosing without the common titration process typically required for other medications.

INGREZZA can be administered in different forms, including the innovative INGREZZA SPRINKLE capsules designed for patients experiencing difficulty swallowing. This addresses a critical requirement by many patients, enhancing medication adherence and improving overall treatment satisfaction.

Conclusion

The vital data presented by Neurocrine Biosciences not only establishes the effectiveness of INGREZZA in providing immediate therapeutic doses but also emphasizes the need for continued innovative treatment pathways in managing tardive dyskinesia. With ongoing research and development, Neurocrine aims to lead the charge in addressing underfunded neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. For patients, these findings represent a potential turning point in managing their symptoms effectively and improving their quality of life.