Photo by Rhoda Baer
The oral factor Xa inhibitor edoxaban (Savaysa) is now available in US pharmacies, according to Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited, the company developing the drug.
Savaysa is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism (SE) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), as well as for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism following 5 to 10 days of initial therapy with a parenteral anticoagulant.
According to Savaysa’s label, it should not be used in NVAF patients with creatinine clearance levels greater than 95 mL/min because, in that population, there is an increased risk of ischemic stroke with the drug compared to warfarin.
Daiichi Sankyo has developed resources for physicians and patients to help ensure patients can begin and/or remain on Savaysa per physician instructions.
The Savaysa Savings Plus program will include a reimbursement hotline to assist patients and prescribers who request help understanding a patient’s available coverage. Eligible patients who are prescribed Savaysa can enroll in a copay savings program and pay $4 per month through the Savaysa Savings Card.
Vouchers will also be available to provide patients and doctors with a way to try Savaysa at no cost to see if it is right for the patient.
In addition, the Savaysa Patient Assistance Program will offer assistance to qualified individuals, providing free product to eligible patients who are prescribed Savaysa, are uninsured, and are unable to identify alternative payment sources.
The approval of Savaysa in the US is based on data from the ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48 trial and the Hokusai-VTE trial.
