Skip to main content

What is Trikafta?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on May 4, 2023.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Trikafta is a triple combination therapy that contains elexacaftor, ivacaftor, and tezacaftor, which is approved for adults and children 2 years of age and older with at least one F508del mutation in the CFTR gene, or a mutation in the CFTR gene that is responsive to Trikafta based on in vitro data.

This means it is suitable for over 90% of the cystic fibrosis population. Trikafta works by helping the protein made by the defective CFTR gene function more effectively. Common side effects include a rash, flu-like symptoms, headache, abdominal pain, nasal congestion, and diarrhea. Trikafta was approved in October 2019 and is made by Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

References
  • FDA Approval history. Sep 13, 2023. https://www.drugs.com/history/trikafta.html
  • Trikafta Prescribing Information. Aug, 20, 2023. https://www.drugs.com/pro/trikafta.html

Read next

Fluimucil is a brand name for acetylcysteine sachets and tablets which may be used to clear phlegm and liquefy thick and viscous mucus secretions caused by respiratory conditions such as acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, pulmonary emphysema, or bronchiectasis. It is a type of mucolytic. Fluimucil is available over the counter (without a prescription) in most countries that have it. Continue reading

Kalydeco specifically targets the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis (CF) and is approved for adults, children, and infants aged 4 months and older with CF with one or more specific mutations in their CFTR gene that is responsive to Kalydeco. It allows the defective CFTR protein to work better and increases salt and water movement within the airways. This thins the mucus and makes it easier to cough out. Continue reading

Orkambi should be taken every 12 hours with fat-containing food such as eggs, avocados, nuts, butter, peanut butter, cheese, and whole-milk dairy products. Granules are available for younger children aged one through five years and these should be mixed with one teaspoon of soft food or liquid. Other therapies prescribed for CF - including bronchodilators, inhaled antibiotics, dornase alfa, and hypertonic saline - should continue to be used if you are prescribed Orkambi. Continue reading

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups

Medical Disclaimer