As nurse practitioners (NPs) continue to play a vital role in healthcare delivery, it becomes increasingly essential for them to stay informed about the most commonly used medications to ensure optimal patient care. Here, we explore the ten best-selling drugs of the year, their implications for practice, and crucial statistics that NPs should know.
Top 10 Best-Selling Drugs in 2024
1. Humira (Adalimumab)
Humira remains a top-selling drug for autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease. A recent study found that 80% of the patients maintained good adherence with adalimumab (Humira®) (an MPR of 80% or higher). Those with good adherence had a lower risk of being hospitalized at least once per year during the study period, and generally, those who stick with the treatment tend to have better health outcomes.
2. Keytruda (Pembrolizumab)
Keytruda continues to lead in oncology, particularly for non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma. According to a recent study, five-year survival rates were between 16.6% and 21.9% for patients treated with pembrolizumab, compared to only 8.5% to 10.1% for those receiving chemotherapy. These survival benefits of pembrolizumab over chemotherapy were also seen in critical specific groups of patients, as detailed in additional data provided in the study.
3. Eliquis (Apixaban)
As an anticoagulant, Eliquis is preferred over warfarin for its efficacy and safety profile. It's primarily used for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation and the treatment of venous thromboembolism. Nurse practitioners should be adept at counseling patients on the risk of bleeding and the need for periodic kidney function tests.
4. Revlimid (Lenalidomide)
Used mainly for multiple myeloma, Revlimid's effectiveness in extending survival rates keeps it high on the sales chart. It requires careful monitoring for side effects like neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, where NPs can play a significant role in patient management.
5. Enbrel (Etanercept)
Enbrel is another strong performer in the autoimmune disease market, crucial for managing rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. NPs must be vigilant about infection risks and patient education regarding injection techniques.
6. Imbruvica (Ibrutinib)
Imbruvica is a leading treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Its mechanism—targeting BTK protein—makes it an essential part of cancer pharmacotherapy, with implications for long-term management strategies that NPs must navigate.
7. Stelara (Ustekinumab)
Used for psoriasis and Crohn's disease, Stelara has shown remarkable efficacy and safety, making it a favored choice among healthcare providers. Nurse practitioners should monitor for signs of infection and counsel patients on the administration schedule.
8. Januvia (Sitagliptin)
As a top-selling oral antidiabetic drug, Januvia plays a critical role in type 2 diabetes management. Its ease of use and lower risk of causing hypoglycemia make it popular, although NPs should counsel patients about potential side effects, including the rare risk of pancreatitis.
9. Opdivo (Nivolumab)
Opdivo, often used in combination with other therapies for melanoma and lung cancer, highlights the move towards immunotherapies in oncology. NPs must know the complex regimens and potential immune-mediated adverse effects of such treatments.
10. Xarelto (Rivaroxaban)
Another novel oral anticoagulant, Xarelto, is favored for its application in preventing strokes and treating deep vein thrombosis without requiring routine blood monitoring, a significant advantage in patient compliance.
Implications for Nurse Practitioners
Understanding these medications involves knowing the pharmacologic aspects and how they fit into broader treatment paradigms and patient management strategies. A recent survey found that over 80% of NPs assessed acutely ill/unstable patients independently, and about 70% said they also plan care and make medication changes independently.
Moreover, with the growing emphasis on personalized medicine, NPs are uniquely positioned to lead in tailoring treatments based on individual patient profiles, which is particularly relevant in the era of biologics and targeted therapies.
Conclusion
The role of the nurse practitioner in medication management is expanding, paralleling the complexities of modern pharmacotherapy. By staying informed about the best-selling drugs in 2024 and their proper use, NPs can ensure safer patient outcomes and more effective disease management.
