Isturisa (osilodrostat)

Description

Isturisa (osilodrostat) is a prescription medication used to treat adults with Cushing’s disease. Cushing’s disease is a rare condition that causes the body to produce too much of the hormone cortisol. Too much cortisol can cause a variety of health problems, including weight gain, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Isturisa works by blocking an enzyme called 11β-hydroxylase, which is involved in the production of cortisol. By blocking this enzyme, Isturisa helps to lower cortisol levels.

Uses

Isturisa is approved for use in adults with Cushing’s disease who have not responded to other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy.

How to Use

Isturisa is taken by mouth, once a day. It can be taken with or without food.

Dosage

The starting dose of Isturisa is 2 mg once a day. The dosage can be adjusted by 1 to 2 mg every 2 weeks, based on the patient’s cortisol levels and tolerability. The maximum recommended dosage of Isturisa is 30 mg once a day.

Mechanism of Action

Isturisa works by blocking an enzyme called 11β-hydroxylase, which is involved in the production of cortisol. By blocking this enzyme, Isturisa helps to lower cortisol levels.

Storage Conditions

Isturisa should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Precautions

Before taking Isturisa, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including:

• Allergies to any medications, including Isturisa
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding plans

Interactions

Isturisa may interact with other medications you are taking. Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Contraindications

Isturisa is contraindicated in people with a known allergy to Isturisa or any of its ingredients.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Isturisa (≥5%) include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Decreased appetite

Other side effects of Isturisa may include:

• Adrenal insufficiency
• Hypocortisolism
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypertension
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Muscle pain
• Bone pain
• Rash
• Pruritus (itching)
• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction

Serious side effects of Isturisa are rare, but may include:

• Adrenal crisis
• Severe hypocortisolism
• Severe hyperglycemia
• Severe hypertension
• Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
• Stroke
• Thromboembolic events (blood clots)

If you experience any side effects while taking Isturisa, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Overdose

There is limited information available on overdose with Isturisa. However, if you think you may have overdosed on Isturisa, contact your healthcare provider or local poison control center right away.

Additional Information

Isturisa is a new medication, and more information is needed about its long-term safety and effectiveness. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Isturisa before starting treatment.