Avella announced it has been selected by Otsuka to distribute Jynarque (tolvaptan), the FDA-approved therapy for patients diagnosed with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Avella is one of three pharmacies providing access to the medication.
ADPKD is one of the most common, life-threatening genetic diseases, diagnosed in 140,000 Americans. In patients with this condition, fluid-filled cysts develop and enlarge in both kidneys and eventually lead to kidney failure. ADPKD is the fourth leading cause of kidney failure and more than 50 percent of people with this condition will develop kidney failure by age 57.
Jynarque is a selective vasopressin V2-receptor antagonist. This means it blocks vasopressin, an anti-diuretic hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, which plays a key role in the fluid balance of the kidneys. By blocking this hormone, the drug can decrease cyst-cell proliferation and fluid secretion, which ultimately can reduce cyst growth. Jynarque was shown to reduce the rate of kidney function decline by 35 percent over a 12-month period when compared to a placebo, in patients with ADPKD.
“Avella is proud to be among a very select group of pharmacies extending access to this important therapy, the first of its kind available to treat this condition,” said Leslie Yendro, Director of Business Development for Avella. “Since ADPKD can be a painful and debilitating disease for patients, it is exciting to see a new medication is finally available to help support these individuals.”