The FDA has approved Auvelity™ (dextromethorphan hydrobromide and bupropion hydrochloride) extended-release tablets, a first-in-class oral NMDA antagonist, for the treatment of major depressive disorder.
This approval has made waves as a rapid-acting medication with statistically significant antidepressant efficacy compared to placebo at one week. Other antidepressants are known to take several weeks or months to take effect, and if Auvelity can begin to work in the first week of treatment it has the potential to gain significant popularity as an effective antidepressant.
Because mental health coverage has become more common in workers’ comp, both as presumptions for PTSD in first responder populations have grown, and as the psychosocial aspect of a workplace injury has gained more prominence, this drug could potentially show up in workers’ comp claims.
Prior to taking Auvelity, it is important to assess blood pressure and screen for bipolar disorder, mania, and hypomania. Auvelity is contraindicated with seizure disorders, anorexia and bulimia, abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs.
The starting dosage begins at one tablet in the morning. Three days later, the dosage can increase to one tablet twice daily, separated by at least eight hours. Tablets must be swallowed whole and cannot be crushed, divided or chewed.
Auvelity is expected to hit the market in Q4 of 2022.
For ongoing coverage of the latest drug approvals and alerts impacting workers’ comp, visit Med Monitor online.
