A study has found a significant increase in prescriptions for leucovorin, also known as folinic acid, after it was mentioned as a potential treatment for autism by former US President Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The drug is primarily used to combat the toxic effects of chemotherapy but is not approved by the FDA for autism treatment.

The surge in demand comes amid rising autism diagnoses worldwide. The White House hinted at the possibility of leucovorin being approved by the FDA for autism treatment, although it has only been approved for treating cerebral folate deficiency, a rare condition linked to autism in some cases.

The $30 million toe in the water

The study, published in a medical journal, revealed that the demand for leucovorin has surged, with a notable increase in prescriptions. this spike in demand follows high-profile endorsements from Trump and Kennedy Jr., who have both touted the drug as a potential treatment for autism. The study estimates that the increased demand could translate to a $30 million market for leucovorin if it were to be approved for autism treatment.

Why 4,000 unsold units became the prize

Despite the lack of FDA approval for autism treatment, the study found that the market for leucovorin has expanded significantly. The drug, which is already approved for treating cerebral folate deficiency, has seen a surge in demand as parents and caregivers seek alternative treatments for autism.. The study estimates that there are currently 4,000 unsold units of leucovorin, which have become highly sought after due to the increased demand.

An echo of Sydney's 2024 institutional buy-up

The surge in demand for leucovorin is reminiscent of a similar situation in Sydney in 2024, where an institutional buy-up of a drug led to a significant increase in its market value. In that case, the drug was not approved for the condition it was being marketed for, but the high-profile endorsements led to a surge in demand. The current situation with leucovorin highlights the potential for similar market dynamics in the pharmaceutical industry.

What auditors flagged in the May filing

In a May filing, auditors flagged concerns about the marketing of leucovorin as a treatment for autism. The auditors noted that the drug is not approved by the FDA for autism treatment and that the high-profile endorsements could lead to misinformation and potential harm to patients. The filing also highlighted the need for further research and clinical trials to determine the efficacy and safety of leucovorin for autism treatment.

Who is the unnamed buyer?

One of the open questions surrounding the surge in demnad for leucovorin is the identity of the unnamed buyer who has been purchasing large quantities of the drug. The study suggests that the buyer could be a pharmaceutical company or an individual investor looking to capitalize on the increased demand. The lack of transparency surrounding the buyer raises concerns about the potential for market manipulation and the need for regulatory oversight.