Description
Ravicti (glycerol phenylbutyrate) is an oral nitrogen-binding agent indicated for the chronic management of patients with urea cycle disorders (UCDs) who cannot be managed by dietary protein restriction and/or amino acid supplementation alone. UCDs are rare genetic conditions that result in an accumulation of ammonia in the blood due to the body's inability to eliminate nitrogen waste. Ravicti helps reduce systemic ammonia levels by facilitating the excretion of nitrogen through an alternative pathway, thereby preventing hyperammonemia. It is approved for use in patients aged two months and older, excluding those with acute hyperammonemia.
Fact Table |
Formula | C27H45NO6 |
License | US FDA (2013), EMA |
Bioavailability | High (prodrug of phenylbutyrate) |
Legal status | Rx-only |
Chemical Name | Glycerol phenylbutyrate |
Elimination half-life | ~1.2 hours (phenylbutyrate); ~0.8 hours (metabolite) |
Dosage (Strength) | 1.1 g/mL oral liquid; dosing individualized by BSA |
Pregnancy | Use only if clearly needed; no adequate data |
Brands | Ravicti |
Protein binding | Phenylbutyrate: ~82% |
PubChem CID | 16041314 |
MedlinePlus | a613023 |
ChEBI | 142201 |
ATC code | A16AX09 |
DrugBank | DB08909 |
KEGG | D09973 |
Routes of administration | Oral (liquid) |
Directions
Ravicti is administered orally and dosed based on body surface area (BSA), dietary protein intake, and plasma ammonia levels. It should be taken with food and may be mixed with certain soft foods or liquids for pediatric use. Doses are typically divided into three to six doses per day, and precise administration requires a calibrated oral syringe. Treatment should be supervised by a clinician experienced in managing metabolic disorders. Regular monitoring of plasma ammonia and amino acid levels is necessary to adjust dosing.
Ingredients
Active Ingredient: Glycerol phenylbutyrate
Inactive Ingredients: None (Ravicti is a pure active compound in liquid form without added excipients)
Contraindications
Ravicti is contraindicated in:
Patients with known hypersensitivity to glycerol phenylbutyrate or any of its metabolites
Neonates and infants less than two months of age due to immature pancreatic function and limited capacity to hydrolyze glycerol phenylbutyrate
Cautions
Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment or gastrointestinal conditions that may impair absorption or metabolism. Ravicti is not effective for the acute treatment of hyperammonemia and should not replace emergency care. Monitoring is essential to avoid under- or overdosing, especially in growing children. Careful dietary management must accompany pharmacologic therapy. Concomitant use of probenecid or valproate may increase the risk of hyperammonemia.
Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Decreased appetite
Vomiting
Nausea
Headache
Fatigue
Serious adverse effects may include:
Neurotoxicity (associated with phenylacetate accumulation)
Hyperammonemia due to underdosing or poor compliance
Pancreatic insufficiency in young children
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 14195