Etripamil

Etripamil is a novel, fast-acting calcium channel blocker developed for the treatment of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). It is designed for intranasal administration, providing a rapid onset of action to terminate episodes of PSVT outside of a hospital setting.

Pharmacology

Etripamil is a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions through L-type calcium channels in the heart. This action reduces the conduction of electrical impulses through the atrioventricular node, thereby slowing the heart rate and terminating episodes of PSVT.

Mechanism of Action

Etripamil binds to the L-type calcium channels located in the cardiac tissue, particularly affecting the atrioventricular node. By blocking these channels, it decreases the conduction velocity and increases the refractory period of the AV node, which helps in restoring normal heart rhythm during an episode of PSVT.

Clinical Use

Etripamil is primarily indicated for the acute treatment of PSVT. It is administered intranasally, allowing for rapid absorption and onset of action. This route of administration is particularly advantageous for patients who require immediate relief from PSVT episodes and may not have access to intravenous treatments.

Dosage and Administration

Etripamil is available as a nasal spray, with a typical dose being a single spray administered into one nostril. The onset of action is usually within minutes, providing quick relief from PSVT symptoms.

Clinical Trials

Etripamil has undergone several clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy and safety. The pivotal trials have demonstrated that etripamil is effective in terminating PSVT episodes with a favorable safety profile. Common side effects include nasal discomfort and mild headache.

Safety and Side Effects

The most common side effects of etripamil are related to its route of administration and include nasal irritation and discomfort. Systemic side effects are rare due to the localized action of the drug. However, as with other calcium channel blockers, there is a potential for hypotension and bradycardia.

Regulatory Status

As of the latest updates, etripamil is under review by regulatory agencies for approval. It has been granted Fast Track designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to its potential to address an unmet medical need in the treatment of PSVT.

Research and Development

Etripamil is being developed by Milestone Pharmaceuticals, a biopharmaceutical company focused on cardiovascular diseases. Ongoing research aims to explore additional indications and optimize the formulation for broader use.

Also see

• Calcium channel blocker
• Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
• Atrioventricular node
• Milestone Pharmaceuticals