Question 1

What is Korlym?

Accepted Answer

Korlym is a prescription medication containing the active ingredient mifepristone. It functions as a cortisol receptor blocker, which means it interferes with the way the hormone cortisol interacts with various tissues and organs.

While some treatments work by reducing the production of hormones, this medication works by preventing cortisol from binding to its specific receptors. By blocking these receptors, the drug helps manage the physiological impact of cortisol activity within the body.

Question 2

What is Korlym used for?

Accepted Answer

Korlym is used to treat control of hyperglycemia secondary to endogenous Cushing's syndrome.

Question 3

How does Korlym work?

Accepted Answer

Blocking Cortisol Activity

Korlym contains the medication mifepristone. In people with Cushing's syndrome, the body produces too much of the hormone cortisol. High levels of cortisol can lead to various health issues, including high blood sugar ( hyperglycemia ) and type 2 diabetes.

Unlike some other treatments, Korlym does not decrease the amount of cortisol the body produces. Instead, it works as a cortisol receptor blocker. It attaches to the receptors that cortisol normally binds to, preventing the hormone from sending its signals to the rest of the body.

Managing Blood Sugar

By blocking these receptors, Korlym helps to:

Reduce the impact of excess cortisol on blood sugar levels.

Improve how the body handles glucose (sugar).

Manage symptoms of type 2 diabetes or glucose intolerance specifically caused by endogenous Cushing's syndrome.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Korlym?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Korlym is mifepristone .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Korlym?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Korlym may include:

Nausea

Fatigue

Headache

and others.

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Korlym?

Accepted Answer

Korlym belongs to the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Korlym and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Korlym

Korlym comes as a tablet to be taken by mouth. To ensure the medication works correctly, follow these guidelines:

Take the tablet once daily with food.

Swallow the tablets whole. Do not split, crush, or chew them.

Try to take your dose at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of medicine in your body.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Korlym, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.

Question 8

Is Korlym safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

Korlym is contraindicated for use during pregnancy. The active ingredient, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a pregnancy. Taking this medication while pregnant will result in the termination of the pregnancy.

Before starting Korlym, a pregnancy test must be performed to ensure you are not pregnant. Because this medication can make hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, injections, or implants, less effective, it is necessary to use a reliable non-hormonal form of birth control during treatment and for one month after the final dose.

Breastfeeding

It is currently unknown whether Korlym passes into human breast milk or if it could harm a nursing infant. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfeeding child, patients should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider to decide whether to stop breastfeeding or stop taking the medication.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Korlym come in?

Accepted Answer

Korlym is supplied in the following dosage form:

Oral Tablet: This medication is a tablet intended to be swallowed whole. It should not be split, crushed, or chewed and is typically taken once daily with a meal.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Korlym?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval History

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Korlym in February 2012. It was the first medication approved specifically to treat high blood sugar ( hyperglycemia ) in patients with endogenous Cushing’s syndrome.

Approved Indications

Korlym is indicated for adults with endogenous Cushing’s syndrome who have type 2 diabetes or glucose intolerance and have failed surgery or are not candidates for surgery. It is not intended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes that is not associated with Cushing’s syndrome.

Boxed Warning and Safety Programs

Korlym carries a boxed warning because it is a potent progesterone receptor antagonist. This means it will result in the loss of a pregnancy. Before starting treatment, pregnancy must be excluded in individuals of childbearing potential, and non-hormonal contraception must be used during treatment and for one month after stopping the drug.

Due to these risks, the medication is only available through a restricted distribution program called the Korlym Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS). This program ensures that healthcare providers and patients are informed about the risks of pregnancy loss and the requirements for pregnancy testing and contraception.

Question 11

What should I know about Korlym and cost?

Accepted Answer

Insurance and Prior Authorization

Most insurance plans, including Medicare and private commercial insurance, require prior authorization for Korlym. This means your healthcare provider must submit documentation to your insurance company to justify the medical necessity of the drug before coverage is approved. Your out-of-pocket costs, such as co-payments or coinsurance, will depend on your specific insurance plan's formulary and deductible requirements.

Specialty Pharmacy Distribution

Korlym is typically not available at standard retail pharmacies. It is usually dispensed through a specialty pharmacy. These pharmacies are equipped to handle medications that require extra support, such as coordinating insurance benefits and arranging for specialized delivery to the patient.

Financial Assistance Programs

Because the cost of treatment can be high, there are programs available to help eligible patients manage expenses:

Co-pay Assistance: Patients with commercial insurance may be eligible for co-pay cards or coupons that reduce monthly out-of-pocket costs.

Patient Assistance Programs (PAP): These programs are often available for patients who are uninsured or underinsured and meet specific financial criteria. They may provide the medication at a reduced cost or for free.

Patients are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider or the specialty pharmacy to explore these financial support options.

Korlym

Medication Quick Facts

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

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