There is now a new version of the Neupro patch coming! This generic version was created by Vektor Pharma. Vektor concentrates on transdermal systems both through patches on the skin and under the tongue.

Neupro Patch

The Neupro patch is a transdermal patch which means it is absorbed directly into the skin. The patch is used to ease symptoms for Parkinson’s disease patients in both the US and Europe. They slowly and constantly release rotigotine. The medication directly enters the blood stream.

Rotigotine is a type of dopamine agonist. That means it mimics dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter, and binds to dopamine receptors within the brain. Dopamine is generally present in lower levels in Parkinson’s disease patients.

These patches are meant for daily use.

Development

Vektor will have results for their clinical trials by the end of this year. These trials are taking place in Europe.

Their primary goal in these trials is to optimize the efficiency of the dose. That means they will be reducing the amount of the medication in each patch while simultaneously improving the adhesion quality of the patch.

The Pros of Generics

The great thing about generic medications, and why they can mean so much for patients, is that they work the same way as the name brand but for a cheaper cost. They also have the same safety profile as the original medication.

Most name-brand medications have a patent which provides them exclusivity for a certain time period following their initial launch. After this time period ends, generics can hit the market.

Researchers are hopeful that this new generic version will provide Parkinson’s disease patients a more cost effective option.

You can read more about this upcoming generic medication here.