Written by Cassandra Pardini, PharmD, MS | Reviewed by Daphne Berryhill, RPh –
Key takeaways:
- Tyruko (natalizumab-sztn) and Tysabri (natalizumab) are medications that treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Tyruko is a biosimilar to Tysabri that’s slated to become available in the U.S. during the first half of 2024.
- Although not identical, Tyruko works in the same way as Tysabri, its original (“reference”) product. Their benefits and side effects were found to be the same in clinical trials.
- Tyruko is expected to be a more affordable alternative to Tysabri. Your health insurance plan and infusion center will likely make the final call on which medication is available.
The landscape of multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment options has evolved substantially over the past 30 years. Not only has the number of available treatments increased, but treatments are more effective at preventing the progression of MS than ever.
Tysabri (natalizumab) and Tyruko (natalizumab-sztn) are two of these medications. They’re very similar to each other, too. Tyruko was FDA-approved in August 2023 as the first biosimilar to Tysabri. Tysabri is already available, and Tyruko is slated to follow suit in the first half of 2024.
These medications share many common features. So how do you know if one is better for you? Here are five similarities and differences to consider between Tyruko and Tysabri.
1. Tyruko is a biosimilar to Tysabri
Tysabri is a monoclonal antibody medication that was approved to treat MS in 2004. It’s a type of biologic, which is a complex medication that’s made from natural and living sources.
However, because of how they’re made, biologic medications don’t come as “brand” and “generic” versions. Instead, they come as reference (“original”) biologics and biosimilars. A biosimilar is a biologic product that’s highly similar, but not identical, to a reference biologic.
What does this mean? Tyruko is highly similar to Tysabri in terms of structure and function. One isn’t considered better or safer than the other. Clinically speaking, they’re expected to deliver the same benefits.
The biggest differences between them are cost and availability. Biosimilars are generally more affordable than reference biologics. But the best and cheapest medication for you will depend on your health insurance coverage, as well as what’s available at your infusion center.
Keep in mind: Tyruko is not considered “interchangeable” with Tysabri. You can only switch from one to the other with a new prescription order from your healthcare provider.
2. Tyruko and Tysabri work the same way
Tyruko and Tysabri lessen nerve inflammation in the same way. They bind to integrin proteins in your body and prevent white blood cells from causing brain inflammation.
They’re also administered in the same way. The recommended dosage of Tyruko or Tysabri for MS is 300 mg every 4 weeks. They’re given as an intravenous (IV) infusion over 1 hour. Your treatment with one or the other will usually continue as long as it’s working for you and isn’t causing bothersome side effects.
Good to know: Tyruko and Tysabri lessen gut inflammation using a similar strategy. In addition to MS, they’re both approved to treat people living with Crohn’s disease that haven’t responded well to other treatments.
reference: GoodRx Health