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Watane A, Patel M, Yannuzzi NA, Kombo N, Sridhar J. Trends in Immunosuppressive Agent Use for Non-Infectious Uveitis by US Ophthalmologists in Medicare Beneficiaries and Association with Physician-Industry Interactions. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023:1-7. [PMID: 37917798 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2023.2272171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the trends of immunosuppressive drug use for non-infectious uveitis and explore their relationship with industry payments. METHODS A retrospective review of ophthalmologists reimbursed by Medicare for the administration of adalimumab (ADA), repository corticotropin (RCI), methotrexate (MTX), and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) between 2014 and 2018. RESULTS A total of 316 ophthalmologists were reimbursed by Medicare for 1567 ADA, 465 RCI, 1752 MTX, and 12 333 MMF administrations. The number and dollar amount of industry payments were positively associated with ADA and RCI use (P < 0.001). From 2014 to 2018, there was a positive trend in the proportion of ADA (P = 0.007) and RCI (P = 0.007) used and negative trend in the proportion of MMF (P = 0.025) used. CONCLUSION From 2014 to 2018, the use of ADA and RCI increased while MMF decreased and MTX remained stable. There was a positive association between ADA and RCI use and physician-industry interactions. A causal relationship is not determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Watane
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Marissa Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Nicolas A Yannuzzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Ninani Kombo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jayanth Sridhar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Kaplan J, Askanase A, Chu D, Abdellatif A, Basu D, Mirsaeidi M. Acthar ® Gel Treatment for Patients with Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases: An Historical Perspective and Characterization of Clinical Evidence. Clin Drug Investig 2023; 43:739-761. [PMID: 37792273 PMCID: PMC10575998 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-023-01303-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Acthar® Gel (repository corticotropin injection) is a naturally sourced complex mixture of adrenocorticotropic hormone analogs and other pituitary peptides that is believed to have both steroidogenic and nonsteroidogenic immunomodulatory effects via activation of melanocortin receptors in various cells throughout the body. Since 1952, Acthar has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat a variety of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Since 2014, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals has conducted a large number of preclinical, clinical, and real-world-evidence studies of Acthar for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis and polymyositis, multiple sclerosis relapse, ophthalmic disorders, sarcoidosis, and nephrotic syndrome. To date, Acthar has been the subject of more than 500 publications, many of which demonstrate the safety and efficacy of Acthar in patients with inflammatory diseases for whom standard treatments were ineffective or intolerable. Here, we review the history of Acthar and the findings of studies that have investigated the mechanism of action, safety, efficacy, and real-world effectiveness of Acthar for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Kaplan
- Kansas City Multiple Sclerosis and Headache Center, 10600 Mastin Entrance C, Overland Park, KS, 66212, USA.
| | - Anca Askanase
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Chu
- Metropolitan Eye Research and Surgery Institute, Palisades Park, NJ, USA
| | | | - Dhiman Basu
- Heritage Rheumatology and Arthritis Care, Colleyville, TX, USA
| | - Mehdi Mirsaeidi
- College of Medicine-Jacksonville, University of Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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Wan GJ, Niewoehner J, Hayes K. Acthar Gel (RCI): A Narrative Literature Review of Clinical and Economic Evidence. CLINICOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2023; 15:499-512. [PMID: 37397803 PMCID: PMC10312382 DOI: 10.2147/ceor.s410082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Acthar® Gel (repository corticotropin injection [RCI]) is a naturally sourced complex mixture of adrenocorticotropic hormone analogs and other pituitary peptides used to treat patients with serious and rare inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. This narrative review summarizes the key clinical and economic findings among 9 indications: infantile spasms (IS), multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyositis and polymyositis (DM/PM), ocular inflammatory diseases (primarily uveitis and severe keratitis), symptomatic sarcoidosis, and proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome (NS). Key studies of clinical efficacy and healthcare resource utilization and cost from 1956 to 2022 are discussed. Evidence supports the efficacy of RCI across all 9 indications. RCI is recommended as first-line treatment for IS and is associated with improved outcomes for the other 8 indications, including increased recovery rates in MS relapse; improved disease control in RA, SLE, and DM/PM; real-world effectiveness in patients with uveitis and severe keratitis; improved lung function and reduced corticosteroid use in symptomatic sarcoidosis; and increased rates of partial remission of proteinuria in NS. For many indications, RCI may improve clinical outcomes during exacerbations or when conventional treatments have failed to show a benefit. RCI is also associated with a reduction in the use of biologics, corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. Economic data suggest RCI is a cost-effective, value-based treatment option for MS relapse, RA, and SLE. Other economic benefits have been demonstrated for IS, MS relapses, RA, SLE, and DM/PM, including reduced hospitalizations, lengths of stay, inpatient and outpatient services, and emergency department visits. RCI is considered safe and effective and features economic benefits for numerous indications. Its ability to control relapse and disease activity makes RCI an important nonsteroid treatment option that could help preserve functioning and well-being among patients with inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Wan
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Bridgewater, NJ, USA
| | | | - Kyle Hayes
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Bridgewater, NJ, USA
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Wu CLS, Cioanca AV, Gelmi MC, Wen L, Di Girolamo N, Zhu L, Natoli R, Conway RM, Petsoglou C, Jager MJ, McCluskey PJ, Madigan MC. The multifunctional human ocular melanocortin system. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 95:101187. [PMID: 37217094 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Immune privilege in the eye involves physical barriers, immune regulation and secreted proteins that together limit the damaging effects of intraocular immune responses and inflammation. The neuropeptide alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) normally circulates in the aqueous humour of the anterior chamber and the vitreous fluid, secreted by iris and ciliary epithelium, and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). α-MSH plays an important role in maintaining ocular immune privilege by helping the development of suppressor immune cells and by activating regulatory T-cells. α-MSH functions by binding to and activating melanocortin receptors (MC1R to MC5R) and receptor accessory proteins (MRAPs) that work in concert with antagonists, otherwise known as the melanocortin system. As well as controlling immune responses and inflammation, a broad range of biological functions is increasingly recognised to be orchestrated by the melanocortin system within ocular tissues. This includes maintaining corneal transparency and immune privilege by limiting corneal (lymph)angiogenesis, sustaining corneal epithelial integrity, protecting corneal endothelium and potentially enhancing corneal graft survival, regulating aqueous tear secretion with implications for dry eye disease, facilitating retinal homeostasis via maintaining blood-retinal barriers, providing neuroprotection in the retina, and controlling abnormal new vessel growth in the choroid and retina. The role of melanocortin signalling in uveal melanocyte melanogenesis however remains unclear compared to its established role in skin melanogenesis. The early application of a melanocortin agonist to downregulate systemic inflammation used adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-based repository cortisone injection (RCI), but adverse side effects including hypertension, edema, and weight gain, related to increased adrenal gland corticosteroid production, impacted clinical uptake. Compared to ACTH, melanocortin peptides that target MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and/or MC5R, but not adrenal gland MC2R, induce minimal corticosteroid production with fewer amdverse systemic effects. Pharmacological advances in synthesising MCR-specific targeted peptides provide further opportunities for treating ocular (and systemic) inflammatory diseases. Following from these observations and a renewed clinical and pharmacological interest in the diverse biological roles of the melanocortin system, this review highlights the physiological and disease-related involvement of this system within human eye tissues. We also review the emerging benefits and versatility of melanocortin receptor targeted peptides as non-steroidal alternatives for inflammatory eye diseases such as non-infectious uveitis and dry eye disease, and translational applications in promoting ocular homeostasis, for example, in corneal transplantation and diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Lin Stanley Wu
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Department of Optometry, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Adrian V Cioanca
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia; ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia
| | - Maria C Gelmi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Li Wen
- New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Nick Di Girolamo
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ling Zhu
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Riccardo Natoli
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia; ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, ACT, Australia
| | - R Max Conway
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Constantinos Petsoglou
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Martine J Jager
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Peter J McCluskey
- Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michele C Madigan
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Save Sight Institute and Ophthalmology, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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Ng TF, Taylor AW. Stimulating the Melanocortin System in Uveitis and Diabetes Preserves the Structure and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Retina. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24086928. [PMID: 37108092 PMCID: PMC10138492 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24086928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The endogenous neuropeptide α-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH) is a potent suppressor of inflammation and has an essential role in maintaining the normal anti-inflammatory microenvironment of the retina. While the therapeutic use of α-MSH peptide in uveitis and diabetic retinopathy models has been demonstrated, its short half-life and instability limit its use as a therapeutic drug. A comparable analog, PL-8331, which has a stronger affinity to melanocortin receptors, longer half-life, and, so far, is functionally identical to α-MSH, has the potential to deliver melanocortin-based therapy. We examined the effects of PL-8331 on two mouse models of retinal disease, Experimental Autoimmune Uveoretinitis (EAU) and Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). PL-8331 therapy applied to mice with EAU suppressed EAU and preserved retinal structures. In diabetic mice, PL-8331 enhanced the survival of retinal cells and suppressed VEGF production in the retina. In addition, retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) from PL-8331-treated diabetic mice retained normal anti-inflammatory activity. The results demonstrated that the pan-melanocortin receptor agonist PL-8331 is a potent therapeutic drug to suppress inflammation, prevent retinal degeneration, and preserve the normal anti-inflammatory activity of RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tat Fong Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Andrew W Taylor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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Anesi SD, Chang PY, Maleki A, Manhapra A, Look-Why S, Asgari S, Walsh M, Drenen K, Foster CS. Effects of Subcutaneous Repository Corticotropin Gel Injection on Regulatory T Cell Population in Noninfectious Retinal Vasculitis. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023; 31:556-565. [PMID: 35258389 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2022.2042323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effect of repository corticotropin injection (RCI) on regulatory T cell population in patients with noninfectious retinal vasculitis. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with active noninfectious retinal vasculitis were included in a prospective nonrandomized open-label study. RESULTS Eighteen patients (33 eyes) were included in the study. Eleven (61.1%) patients [20 (60.6%) eyes] and 7 (38.9%) patients [13 (33.3%) eyes] were in the responsive and non-responsive groups, respectively. We did not find any statistically significant difference within the PPP-R group, within the PPP-NR group, or between these two groups in regard to regulatory T cell population. No significant systemic or ocular complications were found. CONCLUSION RCI may be a complementary treatment in patients with non-infectious retinal vasculitis with or without uveitis. This study did not demonstrate an increase in regulatory T cell population in patients with noninfectious retinal vasculitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen D Anesi
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter Y Chang
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Arash Maleki
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ambika Manhapra
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sydney Look-Why
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Soheila Asgari
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- Noor Ophthalmology Research Center, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marisa Walsh
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kayla Drenen
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - C Stephen Foster
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Iliopoulos G, Daoussis D. FDA-APPROVED INDICATIONS OF ADRENOCORTICOTROPIC HORMONE (ACTH) AS A DRUG: DOES IT HAVE A PLACE IN DISEASE MANAGEMENT TODAY? CENTRAL ASIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HYPOTHESES AND ETHICS 2022. [DOI: 10.47316/cajmhe.2022.3.4.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
ACTH is a pituitary hormone important for proper function of adrenal glands, cortisol production as well as human physiology in general. It is involved in the pathogenesis of several endocrine disorders like Cushing syndrome and can be a useful diagnostic tool for diseases like primary adrenal insufficiency. Although popular as a hormone in endocrine system physiology and testing, ACTH has been used as a drug since the 1950s. Except for steroid-releasing properties, its mechanism of action involves a steroid-independent anti-inflammatory and possible immune-modulatory effect. Pharmaceutic ACTH has a wide range of indications approved by FDA and usually comes in the form of subcutaneous injections. In this narrative review, we accumulated what we considered as important data from reviews, cases and trials involving the most basic FDA-approved ACTH indications. A special emphasis was given on rheumatologic indications of ACTH. More large data studies need to be performed to assess ACTH usefulness, efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness as a drug.
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Girman C, Panaccio MP, Hayes K, Niewoehner J, Wan GJ. Pain and Fatigue Improvements in Patients Treated with Repository Corticotropin Injection Across Five Indications: A Narrative Review. Adv Ther 2022; 39:3072-3087. [PMID: 35635646 PMCID: PMC9239937 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-022-02176-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Repository corticotropin injection (RCI; Acthar® Gel) is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in 19 indications, including for the treatment of selected patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), symptomatic sarcoidosis, uveitis, and keratitis. Despite treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, many patients with RA, SLE, and other chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases continue to be affected by severe pain and fatigue, indicating a need for other therapies. To examine the clinical data regarding the impact of RCI treatment on pain and fatigue in selected populations, this review included English-language peer-reviewed publications of clinical trials of any size and cohort studies with more than 10 patients that included pain and/or fatigue based on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and/or physician-assessed measures in adults following treatment with RCI for RA, SLE, symptomatic sarcoidosis, uveitis, or keratitis. Literature searches identified eight studies that met these criteria. Four studies (reported in five publications) were in patients with RA or SLE, two in patients with sarcoidosis, one in patients with uveitis, and one in patients with noninfectious keratitis. Across the different types of studies assessed (clinical trials, chart reviews, real-world evidence), the results were consistent with respect to the impact of RCI treatment on improving pain and fatigue. As summarized in this review, data from patient- and physician-reported outcome measures in eight studies demonstrate that, in addition to improving more traditional efficacy measures, RCI may also improve pain and fatigue in patients with RA, SLE, symptomatic sarcoidosis, uveitis, and noninfectious keratitis. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are chronic autoimmune diseases. Clinical studies of drugs for these diseases do not often ask patients how they feel after treatment. Despite treatment, many people with these diseases have pain and feel tired. Repository corticotropin injection (RCI) is a prescription drug for patients with RA, SLE, and other chronic immune diseases. We reviewed the results of published studies with data on pain and fatigue from patients treated with RCI. Four studies were in patients with RA or SLE. Two studies were in patients with symptomatic sarcoidosis. One study was in patients with uveitis. One study was in patients with noninfectious keratitis. These eight studies show that adding RCI to standard treatment lowers pain and fatigue in some patients. It would be helpful to measure pain and fatigue in future clinical studies of drugs for patients with chronic immune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kyle Hayes
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals Inc., Hampton, NJ, USA
| | | | - George J Wan
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals Inc., Hampton, NJ, USA.
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Busch H, Wan GJ, Niewoehner J, Houston P, Su Y, Clinton C, Panaccio MP. Real-world treatment patterns for repository corticotropin injection in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Drugs Context 2022; 11:dic-2021-10-4. [PMID: 35382109 PMCID: PMC8966709 DOI: 10.7573/dic.2021-10-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Repository corticotropin injection (RCI, Acthar® Gel) is a naturally sourced mixture of adrenocorticotropic hormone analogues and other pituitary peptides with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. In a recent clinical trial, RCI was safe and effective for the treatment of refractory rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study aims to describe real-world use and outcomes of patients with RA who were prescribed RCI in clinical practice through retrospective analysis of an electronic medical record database. Methods Patients with RA who were prescribed RCI were identified through the ColumbusTM electronic medical record repository, representing approximately 100 rheumatology practices. Demographics, medications, comorbidities, disease histories, laboratory evaluations, clinical outcomes and patient-reported outcomes were evaluated from 12 months pre-RCI to 12 months post-RCI initiation. Results The RCI cohort (n=63) comprised predominantly white women, aged 54 years on average, at 6 years from RA diagnosis, with high disease activity at baseline according to Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) and Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data 3 (RAPID3) scores. Within the 12 months pre-RCI initiation, 87% of patients were prescribed disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and 67% were prescribed glucocorticoids. Twelve months post-RCI initiation, glucocorticoid, opioid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug prescriptions decreased; disease-modifying antirheumatic drug prescriptions remained stable. Reductions in CDAI, RAPID3, physician global assessment, tender joint count, swollen joint count, and pain visual analogue scale scores were observed 12 months post-RCI initiation. Few discontinuations were due to side effects. Study limitations included small sample size and incomplete electronic medical record data. Conclusion These findings support the safety and effectiveness of RCI for short-term adjunctive treatment of refractory RA and provide patient-management insights from routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard Busch
- American Arthritis and Rheumatology Associates LLC, Loxahatchee, FL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Yujie Su
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Cassie Clinton
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Gupta S, Shyamsundar K, Agrawal M, Vichare N, Biswas J. Current Knowledge of Biologics in Treatment of Noninfectious Uveitis. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2022; 38:203-222. [DOI: 10.1089/jop.2021.0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Simple Gupta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Command Hospital, Pune, India
| | - K. Shyamsundar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Command Hospital, Pune, India
| | - Mohini Agrawal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Command Hospital, Pune, India
| | - Nitin Vichare
- Department of Ophthalmology, Command Hospital, Pune, India
| | - Jyotirmay Biswas
- Department of Uveitis and Ocular Pathology, Sankara Netralaya, Chennai, India
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Sharon Y, Anesi SD, Martinez CE, Huang AJW, Foster CS, Chu DS. Repository Corticotropin Injection as an Alternative Treatment for Refractory Ocular Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid. Cornea 2022; 41:45-51. [PMID: 34050065 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000002771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to report the clinical course and outcome of patients with refractory ocular mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) treated by repository corticotropin injection (RCI). METHODS Patients with biopsy-proven ocular MMP treated with RCI from 3 tertiary medical centers were evaluated. Medical records between January 2013 and January 2021 were reviewed and deidentified to retrieve relevant disease-related data. Primary outcome measures included conjunctival inflammatory activity, change in Foster clinical conjunctival scarring staging after RCI treatment, and the development of ocular and systemic complications. RESULTS Included were 15 patients (10 women and 5 men; 36-95 yrs of age) with a mean follow-up of 4.5 years. Most of the patients (80%) had Foster stage 3 at presentation, and all patients had active MMP. Each patient had failed to respond to at least 1 immunomodulatory drug during the follow-up, and 9 (60%) patients had treatment failure of at least 2 other agents before the use of RCI. The mean duration of RCI treatment was 21 months (range, 3-54 mo). Foster stage did not change in any of the 15 patients at the last follow-up. Nine patients continued RCI therapy at the last follow-up, and in all of them, the disease activity of MMP was well controlled. No serious adverse events because of RCI were documented during the follow-up in any treated patient. CONCLUSIONS RCI may serve as an alternative or an adjunctive treatment in patients with severe and refractory ocular MMP. Treatment with RCI seems to be safe and well-tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Sharon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah-Tikva, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Metropolitan Eye Research and Surgery Institute, Palisades Park, NJ
| | - Stephen D Anesi
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution (MERSI), Waltham, MA
- Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation (OIUF), Waltham, MA
| | - Christine E Martinez
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Andrew J W Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Charles Stephen Foster
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution (MERSI), Waltham, MA
- Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation (OIUF), Waltham, MA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and
| | - David S Chu
- Metropolitan Eye Research and Surgery Institute, Palisades Park, NJ
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ
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Taylor AW, Hsu S, Ng TF. The Role of Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells in Regulation of Macrophages/Microglial Cells in Retinal Immunobiology. Front Immunol 2021; 12:724601. [PMID: 34484232 PMCID: PMC8414138 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.724601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The ocular tissue microenvironment is immune privileged and uses several mechanisms of immunosuppression to prevent the induction of inflammation. Besides being a blood-barrier and source of photoreceptor nutrients, the retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) regulate the activity of immune cells within the retina. These mechanisms involve the expression of immunomodulating molecules that make macrophages and microglial cells suppress inflammation and promote immune tolerance. The RPE have an important role in ocular immune privilege to regulate the behavior of immune cells within the retina. Reviewed is the current understanding of how RPE mediate this regulation and the changes seen under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W Taylor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Samuel Hsu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tat Fong Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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Lobo-Chan AM, MacIntosh P, Bhat P. Publication bias, Open-Labeled Trials and Sky Rocketing Costs- Past, Present and Future of Repository Corticotropin Injection? Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2021; 30:1505-1507. [PMID: 34242098 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1884888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Repository corticotropin injection (RCI) has recently gained attention in the field of ocular inflammatory disease. Data supporting the use of RCI therapy in ocular inflammation are limited to case reports or small series subject to publication bias toward positive results. How this therapy differs significantly from oral corticosteroids, which are significantly cheaper, is unknown. Clinical trials to investigate the efficacy of RCI are currently limited to open-labeled non-comparative studies. Side effects of RCI are not insignificant, have been reported in other fields of medicine, and require further scrutiny. Finally, the price of RCI has skyrocketed with average yearly cost of therapy estimated to be between $480,000-$850,000 with allegations of the RCI manufacturing drug company providing remuneration to induce healthcare providers to prescribe RCIs but without any repercussions from a regulatory standpoint. The significant cost of RCI combined with lack of evidence-based guidance on efficacy, safety, and indications for use in ocular inflammation warrant caution in utilizing this therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Marie Lobo-Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Peter MacIntosh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Pooja Bhat
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA
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Oh DJ, Singh A, Kanu LN, Lobo-Chan AM, MacIntosh PW, Bhat P. Outcomes of Repository Corticotropin Gel for Ocular Sarcoidosis. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2021; 30:1420-1424. [PMID: 33826473 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1884887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the utility and side effect profile of subcutaneous repository corticotropin gel (RCI) in ocular sarcoidosis.Methods: Retrospective chart review.Results: Among six identified patients on RCI therapy, 4 had uveitis, one had optic neuritis and one had uveitis and optic neuritis secondary to sarcoidosis. The average follow-up was 43.5 months. RCI therapy was continuous in 4 patients (average 7.7 months) and intermittent in 2 patients (24 and 12 months). Five of the 6 patients continued with local and/or systemic corticosteroids for ocular inflammation control while on RCI therapy. Two-thirds of patients experienced adverse effects including hyperpigmentation, alopecia, and severe hypertension. RCI therapy was discontinued in 5 of the 6 patients due to continued inflammation and side/adverse effects (4 patients) and loss of follow-up (1 patient).Conclusion: In this small cohort, the majority of patients failed to achieve adequate steroid-sparing ocular inflammation control and experienced side effects while on RCI therapy. Additional studies are needed to elucidate the role of RCI in ocular inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA.,Vitreous, Retina, Macula Consultants of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Arjun Singh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Levi N Kanu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ann-Marie Lobo-Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Peter W MacIntosh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Pooja Bhat
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Crane AB, Sharon Y, Chu DS. Use of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone in Ophthalmology. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2020; 36:661-667. [PMID: 32762596 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2020.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) to induce steroidogenesis and upregulate anti-inflammatory processes has long been known. More recently, however, extrasteroidal mechanisms, through which ACTH exerts anti-inflammatory processes, have been described. This has renewed hope that ACTH can combat inflammatory conditions even when resistant to steroids. This review article summarizes the literature on the use of ACTH in ocular disease. Unfortunately, much of the data regarding the clinical utility of ACTH are outdated, with many studies published in the 1950s and 1960s. Many of these older studies are inconsistent or incomplete with their reporting, making it difficult to ascertain the meaning of the outcomes. Despite the limitations, 2 important trends are evident. First, when used to treat an inflammatory disease, ACTH can be effective at decreasing or eliminating ocular inflammation, even in a refractory disease resistant to multiple treatment modalities. Second, adverse effects of ACTH are rare and are most likely to be reported with relatively high doses of ACTH therapy. Taken as a whole, these studies offer initial promising data that ACTH may be a safe and effective alternative in refractory ocular inflammatory disease. However, they highlight an important lack of prospective data to more rigorously understand the true safety and efficacy of this therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander B Crane
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Yael Sharon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel
| | - David S Chu
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA.,Metropolitan Eye Research and Surgery Institute, Palisades Park, New Jersey, USA
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Ho-Mahler N, Turner B, Eaddy M, Hanke ML, Nelson WW. Treatment with Repository Corticotropin Injection in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Dermatomyositis/Polymyositis. Open Access Rheumatol 2020; 12:21-28. [PMID: 32110122 PMCID: PMC7039080 DOI: 10.2147/oarrr.s231667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Repository corticotropin injection (RCI) is indicated for a number of autoimmune-mediated diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and dermatomyositis (DM)/polymyositis (PM). To better understand the practice patterns and outcomes of RCI in patients with RA, SLE, or DM/PM, we conducted a retrospective medical record analysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS Participating providers selected deidentified medical records of patients meeting the inclusion criteria (age ≥18 years; physician-reported diagnosis of RA, SLE, or DM/PM; initiation of treatment with RCI between 1/1/2011 and 2/15/2016; ≥3 in-office visits with same site/provider). Collected data spanned 12 months before and after the first prescription date for RCI. Analyses included patient demographics and clinical history, RCI treatment patterns, and physician's impression of change. RESULTS Data from 54 patients with RA, 30 patients with SLE, and 8 patients with DM/PM were analyzed. The most frequently reported reasons for initiating RCI were lack of efficacy with prior treatment, acute exacerbation of disease, and use as add-on to ongoing therapy. The most common initial RCI dosing, 80 U twice weekly, was used for 84% of patients with RA, 75% with SLE, and 86% with DM/PM. The mean duration of treatment was 4.8, 6.5, and 6.8 months for RA, SLE, and DM/PM, respectively. Among the 57 patients with data on physician's impression of change with RCI, 78.1% of patients with RA, 94.7% with SLE, and 66.7% with DM/PM had a rating of "improved," and the mean time to best impression of change was 3.4, 4.3, and 3.4 months for RA, SLE, and DM/PM, respectively. CONCLUSION This study reports the real-world patient profile, use patterns, and outcomes of patients who used RCI for the treatment of RA, SLE, and DM/PM. These data can inform appropriate use and clinical expectations when using RCI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mark L Hanke
- Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Bedminster, NJ, USA
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