Patient-reported outcomes of deferasirox (Exjade, ICL670) versus deferoxamine in sickle cell disease patients with transfusional hemosiderosis. Substudy of a randomized open-label phase II trial

Interventions for improving adherence to iron chelation therapy in people with sickle cell disease or thalassaemia

BACKGROUND

Regularly transfused people with sickle cell disease (SCD) and people with thalassaemia are at risk of iron overload. Iron overload can lead to iron toxicity in vulnerable organs such as the heart, liver and endocrine glands, which can be prevented and treated with iron-chelating agents. The intensive demands and uncomfortable side effects of therapy can have a negative impact on daily activities and wellbeing, which may affect adherence.

OBJECTIVES

To identify and assess the effectiveness of different types of interventions (psychological and psychosocial, educational, medication interventions, or multi-component interventions) and interventions specific to different age groups, to improve adherence to iron chelation therapy compared to another listed intervention, or standard care in people with SCD or thalassaemia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL (Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ProQuest Dissertations & Global Theses, Web of Science & Social Sciences Conference Proceedings Indexes and ongoing trial databases (13 December 2021). We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register (1 August 2022).

SELECTION CRITERIA

For trials comparing medications or medication changes, only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were eligible for inclusion. For studies including psychological and psychosocial interventions, educational interventions, or multi-component interventions, non-randomised studies of interventions (NRSIs), controlled before-after studies, and interrupted time series studies with adherence as a primary outcome were also eligible for inclusion.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

For this update, two authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias, and extracted data. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 19 RCTs and one NRSI published between 1997 and 2021. One trial assessed medication management, one assessed an education intervention (NRSI) and 18 RCTs were of medication interventions. Medications assessed were subcutaneous deferoxamine, and two oral chelating agents, deferiprone and deferasirox. We rated the certainty of evidence as very low to low across all outcomes identified in this review. Four trials measured quality of life (QoL) with validated instruments, but provided no analysable data and reported no difference in QoL. We identified nine comparisons of interest. 1. Deferiprone versus deferoxamine We are uncertain whether or not deferiprone affects adherence to iron chelation therapy (four RCTs, unpooled, very low-certainty evidence), all-cause mortality (risk ratio (RR) 0.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.18 to 1.21; 3 RCTs, 376 participants; very low-certainty evidence), or serious adverse events (SAEs) (RR 1.43, 95% CI 0.83 to 2.46; 1 RCT, 228 participants; very low-certainty evidence).  Adherence was reported as "good", "high" or "excellent" by all seven trials, though the data could not be analysed formally: adherence ranged from 69% to 95% (deferiprone, mean 86.6%), and 71% to 93% (deferoxamine, mean 78.8%), based on five trials (474 participants) only. 2. Deferasirox versus deferoxamine We are uncertain whether or not deferasirox affects adherence to iron chelation therapy (three RCTs, unpooled, very low-certainty evidence), although medication adherence was high in all trials. We are uncertain whether or not there is any difference between the drug therapies in serious adverse events (SAEs) (SCD or thalassaemia) or all-cause mortality (thalassaemia). 3. Deferiprone versus deferasirox We are uncertain if there is a difference between oral deferiprone and deferasirox based on a single trial in children (average age 9 to 10 years) with any hereditary haemoglobinopathy in adherence, SAEs and all-cause mortality. 4. Deferasirox film-coated tablet (FCT) versus deferasirox dispersible tablet (DT) One RCT compared deferasirox in different tablet forms. There may be a preference for FCTs, shown through a trend for greater adherence (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.22; 1 RCT, 88 participants), although medication adherence was high in both groups (FCT 92.9%; DT 85.3%). We are uncertain if there is a benefit in chelation-related AEs with FCTs. We are uncertain if there is a difference in the incidence of SAEs, all-cause mortality or sustained adherence. 5. Deferiprone and deferoxamine combined versus deferiprone alone We are uncertain if there is a difference in adherence, though reporting was usually narrative as triallists report it was "excellent" in both groups (three RCTs, unpooled). We are uncertain if there is a difference in the incidence of SAEs and all-cause mortality.  6. Deferiprone and deferoxamine combined versus deferoxamine alone We are uncertain if there is a difference in adherence (four RCTs), SAEs (none reported in the trial period) and all-cause mortality (no deaths reported in the trial period). There was high adherence in all trials. 7. Deferiprone and deferoxamine combined versus deferiprone and deferasirox combined There may be a difference in favour of deferiprone and deferasirox (combined) in rates of adherence (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.72 to 0.99) (one RCT), although it was high (> 80%) in both groups. We are uncertain if there is a difference in SAEs, and no deaths were reported in the trial, so we cannot draw conclusions based on these data (one RCT). 8. Medication management versus standard care We are uncertain if there is a difference in QoL (one RCT), and we could not assess adherence due to a lack of reporting in the control group. 9. Education versus standard care One quasi-experimental (NRSI) study could not be analysed due to the severe baseline confounding.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The medication comparisons included in this review had higher than average adherence rates not accounted for by differences in medication administration or side effects, though often follow-up was not good (high dropout over longer trials), with adherence based on a per protocol analysis. Participants may have been selected based on higher adherence to trial medications at baseline. Also, within the clinical trial context, there is increased attention and involvement of clinicians, thus high adherence rates may be an artefact of trial participation. Real-world, pragmatic trials in community and clinic settings are needed that examine both confirmed or unconfirmed adherence strategies that may increase adherence to iron chelation therapy. Due to lack of evidence this review cannot comment on intervention strategies for different age groups.

Managing the Cerebrovascular Complications of Sickle Cell Disease: Current Perspectives

The importance of protecting brain function for people with sickle cell disease (SCD) cannot be overstated. SCD is associated with multiple cerebrovascular complications that threaten neurocognitive function and life. Without screening and preventive management, 11% of children at 24% of adults with SCD have ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes. Stroke screening in children with SCD is well-established using transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD). TCD velocities above 200 cm/s significantly increase the risk of stroke, which can be prevented using chronic red blood cell (RBC) transfusion. RBC transfusion is also the cornerstone of acute stroke management and secondary stroke prevention. Chronic transfusion requires long-term management of complications like iron overload. Hydroxyurea can replace chronic transfusions for primary stroke prevention in a select group of patients or in populations where chronic transfusions are not feasible. Silent cerebral infarction (SCI) is even more common than stroke, affecting 39% of children and more than 50% of adults with SCD; management of SCI is individualized and includes careful neurocognitive evaluation. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant prevents cerebrovascular complications, despite the short- and long-term risks. Newer disease-modifying agents like voxelotor and crizanlizumab, as well as gene therapy, may treat cerebrovascular complications, but these approaches are investigational.

Concurrent use of hydroxyurea and deferasirox in Californians with sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

When patients with sickle cell disease have appropriate indications, they can be prescribed hydroxyurea (HU) and deferasirox (DFX) concurrently despite little knowledge about how the two medications interact. We wished to analyze whether there was evidence of adverse interaction between HU and DFX when taken simultaneously and hypothesized that those who took both drugs together had similar clinical complications when compared to those who took only one or neither drug.

METHODS

We conducted this retrospective cohort investigation between 2009 and 2016 of persons with SCD in the California Sickle Cell Data Collection Program, a validated database of Californians with SCD a statewide. People in the database who took HU and DFX simultaneously for at least 3 months as compared to those who took either HU or DFX alone or to matched persons who took neither drug were eligible.

RESULTS

We identified 104 people who were prescribed both HU and DFX concurrently, 877 who were prescribed HU only, and 314 who were prescribed DFX only during the study period. We identified 416 matched controls who took neither HU nor DFX. People who took both HU and DFX concurrently had similar rates of ED and inpatient encounters and had similar rates and distribution of adverse effects compared to those who took either HU or DFX alone or took neither drug.

CONCLUSION

Three months of concurrent use of DFX and HU appears safe, but further studies are required to better understand the safety and effectiveness of this medication combination. (Funded by CDC, CDC Foundation, and others).

Cardiac and hepatic siderosis in myelodysplastic syndrome, thalassemia and diverse causes of transfusion-dependent anemia: the TIMES study

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The significant morbidity and mortality associated with iron overload can be reduced by effective iron chelation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides accurate and reproducible iron load assessment. The aim of this epidemiological study was to assess the prevalence and severity of cardiac and hepatic siderosis by MRI and to evaluate the impact of MRI on clinical management in patients with transfusion-dependent anemia and non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT). We enrolled 243 patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), thalassemia major (TM), NTDT or other chronic anemia. Overall, 10% and 48% had cardiac and hepatic siderosis, respectively. Mean liver iron concentration (LIC) was above target range in all groups; mean myocardial T2^∗ was normal. Hepatic siderosis was more prevalent than myocardial siderosis in patients with MDS, occurring in 54.4% and 4.4% of patients, respectively. As also observed in patients with NTDT or other anemia, hepatic siderosis was present in a large proportion of MDS patients who were chelation naïve (57.7%), as well as in patients receiving iron chelation therapy (ICT) (52.4%), despite a lower transfusion load compared with TM. Correlation between LIC and serum ferritin was observed across diseases; however, not all patients requiring ICT could be identified with serum ferritin alone, as serum ferritin underestimated LIC in 4.4% and overestimated LIC in 7.5% of patients. Exploratory analyses showed serum ferritin thresholds for liver siderosis detected by MRI at approximately 300 ng/mL higher in MDS than in TM. Most patients reported low–medium adherence to ICT; MRI assessment led to change in ICT in 46% of evaluable patients, including 52% of MDS patients. Accurate organ iron monitoring by MRI facilitated appropriate initiation of chelation, dose optimization and clinical decision making.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01736540.

Patient-reported outcomes from a randomized phase II study of the deferasirox film-coated tablet in patients with transfusion-dependent anemias

BACKGROUND

Adherence to long-term chelation therapy in transfusion-dependent patients is critical to prevent iron overload-related complications. Once-daily deferasirox dispersible tablets (DT) have proven long-term efficacy and safety in patients ≥2 years old with chronic transfusional iron overload. However, barriers to optimal adherence remain, including palatability, preparation time, and requirements for fasting state. A new film-coated tablet (FCT) formulation was developed, swallowed once daily (whole/crushed) with/without a light meal.

METHODS

The open-label, Phase II ECLIPSE study evaluated patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in transfusion-dependent thalassemia or lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes patients randomized 1:1 to receive deferasirox DT or FCT over 24 weeks as a secondary outcome of the study. Three PRO questionnaires were developed to evaluate both deferasirox formulations: 1) Modified Satisfaction with Iron Chelation Therapy Questionnaire; 2) Palatability Questionnaire; 3) Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptom Diary.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy three patients were enrolled; 87 received the FCT and 86 the DT formulation. FCT recipients consistently reported better adherence (easier to take medication, less bothered by time to prepare medication and waiting time before eating), greater satisfaction/preference (general satisfaction and with administration of medicine), and fewer concerns (less worry about not swallowing enough medication, fewer limitations in daily activities, less concern about side effects). FCT recipients reported no taste or aftertaste and could swallow all their medicine with an acceptable amount of liquid. GI summary scores were low for both formulations.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest a preference in favor of the deferasirox FCT formulation regardless of underlying disease or age group. Better patient satisfaction and adherence to chelation therapy may reduce iron overload-related complications.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02125877; registered April 26, 2014.

Jadenu® Substituting Exjade® in Iron Overloaded β-Thalassemia Major (BTM) Patients: A Preliminary Report of the Effects on the Tolerability, Serum Ferritin Level, Liver Iron Concentration and Biochemical Profiles

Introduction

Due to the chronic nature of chelation therapy and the adverse consequences of iron overload, patient adherence to therapy is an important issue. Jadenu ^® is a new oral formulation of deferasirox (Exjade ^®) tablets for oral suspension. While Exjade^® is a dispersible tablet that must be mixed in liquid and taken on an empty stomach, Jadenu ^® can be taken in a single step, with or without a light meal, simplifying administration for the treatment of patients with chronic iron overload. This may significantly improve the compliance to treatment of patients with β-thalassemia major (BMT). The aim of this study was to evaluate the drug tolerability and the effects of chelation therapy on serum ferritin concentration, liver iron concentration (LIC) and biochemical profiles in patients with BMT and iron overload.

Patients and Methods

Twelve selected adult patients BMT (mean age: 29 years; range:15–34 years) were enrolled in the study. All patients were on monthly regular red cell transfusion therapy to keep their pre-transfusional hemoglobin (Hb) level not less than 9 g/dL. They were on Exjade^® therapy (30 mg/kg per day) for two years or more before starting Jadenu® therapy (14–28 mg/kg/day). The reason for shifting from Deferasirox^® to Jadenu^® therapy was lack of tolerability, as described by patients, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain. Most of them also reported that Deferasirox^® was not palatable. Lab investigations included monthly urine analysis and measurement of their serum concentrations of creatinine, fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum ferritin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST) and albumin concentrations. LIC was measured using FerriScan ^®. Thyroid function, vitamin D and serum parathormone, before and one year after starting Jadenu ^® therapy, were also assessed.

Results

Apart from some minor gastrointestinal complaints reported in 3 BMT patients that did not require discontinuation of therapy, other side effects were not registered during the treatment. Subjectively, patients reported an improvement in the palatability of Jadenu^® compared to Exjade^® therapy in 8 out of 12 BMT patients. A non-significant decrease in LIC measured by FerriScan^® and serum ferritin levels was observed after one year of treatment with Jadenu^®. A significant positive correlation was found between serum ferritin level and LIC measured by the FerriScan^® method. LIC and serum ferritin level correlated significantly with ALT level (r = 0.31 and 0.45 respectively, p < 0.05). No significant correlation was detected between LIC and other biochemical or hormonal parameters.

Conclusions

Our study shows that short-term treatment with Jadenu ^® is safe but is associated with a non-significant decrease in LIC and serum ferritin levels. Therefore, there is an urgent need for adequately-powered and high-quality trials to assess the clinical efficacy and the longterm outcomes of new deferasirox formulation.

Interventions for improving adherence to iron chelation therapy in people with sickle cell disease or thalassaemia

BACKGROUND

Regularly transfused people with sickle cell disease (SCD) and people with thalassaemia (who are transfusion-dependent or non-transfusion-dependent) are at risk of iron overload. Iron overload can lead to iron toxicity in vulnerable organs such as the heart, liver and endocrine glands; which can be prevented and treated with iron chelating agents. The intensive demands and uncomfortable side effects of therapy can have a negative impact on daily activities and well-being, which may affect adherence.

OBJECTIVES

To identify and assess the effectiveness of interventions (psychological and psychosocial, educational, medication interventions, or multi-component interventions) to improve adherence to iron chelation therapy in people with SCD or thalassaemia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, Web of Science Science & Social Sciences Conference Proceedings Indexes and ongoing trial databases (01 February 2017). We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register (12 December 2017).

SELECTION CRITERIA

For trials comparing medications or medication changes, only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were eligible for inclusion.For studies including psychological and psychosocial interventions, educational Interventions, or multi-component interventions, non-RCTs, controlled before-after studies, and interrupted time series studies with adherence as a primary outcome were also eligible for inclusion.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Three authors independently assessed trial eligibility, risk of bias and extracted data. The quality of the evidence was assessed using GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 16 RCTs (1525 participants) published between 1997 and 2017. Most participants had β-thalassaemia major; 195 had SCD and 88 had β-thalassaemia intermedia. Mean age ranged from 11 to 41 years. One trial was of medication management and 15 RCTs were of medication interventions. Medications assessed were subcutaneous deferoxamine, and two oral-chelating agents, deferiprone and deferasirox.We rated the quality of evidence as low to very low across all outcomes identified in this review.Three trials measured quality of life (QoL) with validated instruments, but provided no analysable data and reported no difference in QoL.Deferiprone versus deferoxamineWe are uncertain whether deferiprone increases adherence to iron chelation therapy (four trials, very low-quality evidence). Results could not be combined due to considerable heterogeneity (participants' age and different medication regimens). Medication adherence was high (deferiprone (85% to 94.9%); deferoxamine (71.6% to 93%)).We are uncertain whether deferiprone increases the risk of agranulocytosis, risk ratio (RR) 7.88 (99% confidence interval (CI) 0.18 to 352.39); or has any effect on all-cause mortality, RR 0.44 (95% CI 0.12 to 1.63) (one trial; 88 participants; very low-quality evidence).Deferasirox versus deferoxamineWe are uncertain whether deferasirox increases adherence to iron chelation therapy, mean difference (MD) -1.40 (95% CI -3.66 to 0.86) (one trial; 197 participants; very-low quality evidence). Medication adherence was high (deferasirox (99%); deferoxamine (100%)). We are uncertain whether deferasirox decreases the risk of thalassaemia-related serious adverse events (SAEs), RR 0.95 (95% CI 0.41 to 2.17); or all-cause mortality, RR 0.96 (95% CI 0.06 to 15.06) (two trials; 240 participants; very low-quality evidence).We are uncertain whether deferasirox decreases the risk of SCD-related pain crises, RR 1.05 (95% CI 0.68 to 1.62); or other SCD-related SAEs, RR 1.08 (95% CI 0.77 to 1.51) (one trial; 195 participants; very low-quality evidence).Deferasirox film-coated tablet (FCT) versus deferasirox dispersible tablet (DT)Deferasirox FCT may make little or no difference to adherence, RR 1.10 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.22) (one trial; 173 participants; low-quality evidence). Medication adherence was high (FCT (92.9%); DT (85.3%)).We are uncertain if deferasirox FCT increases the incidence of SAEs, RR 1.22 (95% CI 0.62 to 2.37); or all-cause mortality, RR 2.97 (95% CI 0.12 to 71.81) (one trial; 173 participants; very low-quality evidence).Deferiprone and deferoxamine combined versus deferiprone alone We are uncertain if deferiprone and deferoxamine combined increases adherence to iron chelation therapy (very low-quality evidence). Medication adherence was high (deferiprone 92.7% (range 37% to 100%) to 93.6% (range 56% to 100%); deferoxamine 70.6% (range 25% to 100%).Combination therapy may make little or no difference to the risk of SAEs, RR 0.15 (95% CI 0.01 to 2.81) (one trial; 213 participants; low-quality evidence).We are uncertain if combination therapy decreases all-cause mortality, RR 0.77 (95% CI 0.18 to 3.35) (two trials; 237 participants; very low-quality evidence).Deferiprone and deferoxamine combined versus deferoxamine aloneDeferiprone and deferoxamine combined may have little or no effect on adherence to iron chelation therapy (four trials; 216 participants; low-quality evidence). Medication adherence was high (deferoxamine 91.4% to 96.1%; deferiprone: 82.4%)Deferiprone and deferoxamine combined, may have little or no difference in SAEs or mortality (low-quality evidence). No SAEs occurred in three trials and were not reported in one trial. No deaths occurred in two trials and were not reported in two trials.Deferiprone and deferoxamine combined versus deferiprone and deferasirox combinedDeferiprone and deferasirox combined may improve adherence to iron chelation therapy, RR 0.84 (95% CI 0.72 to 0.99) (one trial; 96 participants; low-quality evidence). Medication adherence was high (deferiprone and deferoxamine: 80%; deferiprone and deferasirox: 95%).We are uncertain if deferiprone and deferasirox decreases the incidence of SAEs, RR 1.00 (95% CI 0.06 to 15.53) (one trial; 96 participants; very low-quality evidence).There were no deaths in the trial (low-quality evidence).Medication management versus standard careWe are uncertain if medication management improves health-related QoL (one trial; 48 participants; very low-quality evidence). Adherence was only measured in one arm of the trial.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The medication comparisons included in this review had higher than average adherence rates not accounted for by differences in medication administration or side effects.Participants may have been selected based on higher adherence to trial medications at baseline. Also, within the clinical trial context, there is increased attention and involvement of clinicians, thus high adherence rates may be an artefact of trial participation.Real-world, pragmatic trials in community and clinic settings are needed that examine both confirmed or unconfirmed adherence strategies that may increase adherence to iron chelation therapy.Due to lack of evidence this review cannot comment on intervention strategies for different age groups.

Advances in iron chelation therapy: transitioning to a new oral formulation

Iron overload is a concern for patients who require repeated red-blood-cell transfusions due to conditions such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or myelodysplastic syndromes. The recommended treatment for removing excess iron in these patients is iron chelation therapy. Currently available iron chelators include deferoxamine, which is administered by injection, and deferasirox and deferiprone, both of which are administered orally. Adherence to iron chelator therapy is an important consideration and may be affected by side effects. A new formulation of deferasirox, a film-coated tablet (FCT), has the potential to improve adherence by offering greater flexibility in administration compared with the original formulation of deferasirox, a dispersible tablet (DT) for oral suspension. This review provides an overview of the currently available iron chelator formulations, with a focus on a comparison between deferasirox DT for oral suspension and deferasirox FCT. The new formulation may be associated with fewer side effects and has increased bioavailability. In addition, alternative strategies for iron chelation, such as combining two different iron chelators, will be discussed.

New film-coated tablet formulation of deferasirox is well tolerated in patients with thalassemia or lower-risk MDS: Results of the randomized, phase II ECLIPSE study

Once‐daily deferasirox dispersible tablets (DT) have a well‐defined safety and efficacy profile and, compared with parenteral deferoxamine, provide greater patient adherence, satisfaction, and quality of life. However, barriers still exist to optimal adherence, including gastrointestinal tolerability and palatability, leading to development of a new film‐coated tablet (FCT) formulation that can be swallowed with a light meal, without the need to disperse into a suspension prior to consumption. The randomized, open‐label, phase II ECLIPSE study evaluated the safety of deferasirox DT and FCT formulations over 24 weeks in chelation‐naïve or pre‐treated patients aged ≥10 years, with transfusion‐dependent thalassemia or IPSS‐R very‐low‐, low‐, or intermediate‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes. One hundred seventy‐three patients were randomized 1:1 to DT (n = 86) or FCT (n = 87). Adverse events (overall), consistent with the known deferasirox safety profile, were reported in similar proportions of patients for each formulation (DT 89.5%; FCT 89.7%), with a lower frequency of severe events observed in patients receiving FCT (19.5% vs. 25.6% DT). Laboratory parameters (serum creatinine, creatinine clearance, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and urine protein/creatinine ratio) generally remained stable throughout the study. Patient‐reported outcomes showed greater adherence and satisfaction, better palatability and fewer concerns with FCT than DT. Treatment compliance by pill count was higher with FCT (92.9%) than with DT (85.3%). This analysis suggests deferasirox FCT offers an improved formulation with enhanced patient satisfaction, which may improve adherence, thereby reducing frequency and severity of iron overload‐related complications.

Efficacy of Deferasirox as an Oral Iron Chelator in Paediatric Thalassaemia Patients

INTRODUCTION

Thalassaemia Major patients require frequent blood transfusion leading to iron overload. Excessive iron gets deposited in vital organs and leads to dysfunction of the heart, liver, anterior pituitary, pancreas, and joints. Our body has limited mechanism to excrete iron, so patients with iron overload and its complications need safe and effective iron chelation therapy.

AIM

To assess the efficacy of Deferasirox (DFX) as an iron chelator, with specific reference to reduction in serum ferritin level.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a prospective; observational study done in 45 multitransfused Thalassaemia Major Children receiving DFX therapy at registered Thalassaemia society Raipur Chhattisgarh. DFX was given in an initial dose of 20 mg/kg/day and according to response increased to a maximum of 40 mg/kg/day. Serum ferritin level was estimated at time of registration and at every three monthly intervals (four times during study period). The primary end point of the study was change in serum ferritin level after 12 months of DFX therapy.

RESULTS

The mean serum ferritin before DFX therapy of all cases was 3727.02 ng/mL. After 12 months of mean dose of 38 mg/kg/day of DFX, the mean decline in serum ferritin was 1207.11 ng/mL (drop by 32.38%, p-value <0.001).

CONCLUSION

DFX monotherapy has a good safety profile and effectively chelates total body iron in Thalassaemia major patients.

Evaluation of a new tablet formulation of deferasirox to reduce chronic iron overload after long-term blood transfusions

Transfusion-dependent anemia is a common feature in a wide array of hematological disorders, including thalassemia, sickle cell disease, aplastic anemia, myelofibrosis, and myelo-dysplastic syndromes. In the absence of a physiological mechanism to excrete excess iron, chronic transfusions ultimately cause iron overload. Without correction, iron overload can lead to end-organ damage, resulting in cardiac, hepatic, and endocrine dysfunction/failure. Iron chelating agents are utilized to reduce iron overload, as they form a complex with iron, leading to its clearance. Iron chelation has been proven to decrease organ dysfunction and improve survival in certain transfusion-dependent anemias, such as β-thalassemia. Several chelating agents have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of iron overload, including deferoxamine, deferiprone, and deferasirox. A variety of factors have to be considered when choosing an iron chelator, including dosing schedule, route of administration, tolerability, and side effect profile. Deferasirox is an orally administered iron chelator with proven efficacy and safety in multiple hematological disorders. There are two formulations of deferasirox, a tablet for suspension, and a new tablet form. This paper is intended to provide an overview of iron overload, with a focus on deferasirox, and its recently approved formulation Jadenu^® for the reduction of transfusional iron overload in hematological disorders.

Efficacy and safety of a novel combination of two oral chelators deferasirox/deferiprone over deferoxamine/deferiprone in severely iron overloaded young beta thalassemia major patients

OBJECTIVE

Minimal data are available on the combined two oral iron chelators in β-thalassemia major (β-TM). Comparison of safety, efficacy, compliance, treatment satisfaction, and quality of life (QoL) of two regimens: deferiprone (DFP) and deferoxamine (DFO) versus DFP and deferasirox (DFX) were studied.

METHODS

A prospective randomized trial (NCT01511848) was conducted on 96 young β-TM patients with severe iron overload. Patients were randomized to receive either DFP with DFO (arm 1) or DFP and DFX (arm 2). Efficacy endpoints were the difference between two groups in the change of serum ferritin (SF), liver iron concentration (LIC), cardiac MRI, and quality of life (QoL).

RESULTS

In both arms, SF and LIC at 12 months were significantly lower, and geometric mean cardiac T2* was higher compared to baseline. On regression analysis of change in each studied variable against time, significant difference between slopes of the two groups regarding cardiac T2* (P = 0.001 with more improvement in DFP/DFX patients) was found with no significant difference in the slopes of SF and LIC (P = 0.218 and 0.340).

CONCLUSION

Both iron chelation combination regimens were equally effective in reducing iron overload and improving QoL.DFP/DFX combination proved superior in improving cardiac T2*, treatment compliance, and patients satisfaction with no greater adverse events.

Deferasirox for managing transfusional iron overload in people with sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of genetic haemoglobin disorders, that occurs in about 2.2 per 1000 births worldwide. Increasingly, some people with SCD develop secondary iron overload due to occasional red blood cell transfusions or are on long-term transfusion programmes for e.g. secondary stroke prevention. Iron chelation therapy can prevent long-term complications.Deferoxamine and deferiprone have been found to be efficacious. However, questions exist about the effectiveness and safety of the newer oral chelator deferasirox.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of oral deferasirox in people with SCD and secondary iron overload.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cystic Fibrosis &amp; Genetic Disorders Group's Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register: date of most recent search:13 March 2014.We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Biosis Previews, Web of Science, Derwent Drug File, XTOXLINE, EBMR and The Cochrane Library, respectively; date of most recent searches: 02 August 2013.We searched four trial registries: www.controlled-trials.com; www.clinicaltrials.gov; www.who.int./ictrp/en/; www.drks.de; date of most recent searches: 03 June 2013.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials comparing deferasirox with no therapy or placebo or with another iron chelating treatment schedule.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed risk of bias and extracted data. We contacted the corresponding study authors for additional information.

MAIN RESULTS

Two studies (with 203 and 212 people) comparing the efficacy and safety of deferasirox and deferoxamine after 12 months and 24 weeks, respectively, were included. The overall quality, according to GRADE, for the main outcomes was moderate to low. Only limited data were available on mortality and end-organ damage, although one study did assess mortality, relative risk 1.26 (95% confidence interval 0.05 to 30.41), the 24-week follow up was too short to allow us to draw firm conclusions. One study reported a relative risk of 1.26 for the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (95% confidence interval 0.05 to 30.41). Serum ferritin reduction was significantly greater with deferoxamine, mean difference of change of 440.69 µg/l (95% confidence interval 11.73 to 869.64). Liver iron concentration (reported in one study) measured by superconduction quantum interference device showed no significant difference for the overall group of patients adjusted for transfusion category, mean difference -0.20 mg Fe/g dry weight (95% confidence interval -3.15 to 2.75).The occurrence of serious adverse events did not differ between drugs. Nausea, diarrhoea and rash occurred significantly more often in people treated with deferasirox, while adverse events of any kind were more often reported for patients treated with deferoxamine (one study). The mean increase of creatinine was also significantly higher with deferasirox, mean difference 3.24 (95% confidence interval 0.45 to 6.03). Long-term adverse events could not be measured in the included studies (follow up 52 weeks and 24 weeks). Patient satisfaction and the likelihood of continuing treatment, were significantly better with deferasirox.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Deferasirox appears to be of similar efficacy to deferoxamine depending on depending on the appropriate ratio of doses of deferoxamine and deferasirox being compared. However, only limited evidence is available assessing the efficacy regarding patient-important outcomes. The short-term safety of deferasirox seems to be acceptable, however, follow up in the available studies was too short to assess long-term side effects. Long-term safety and efficacy data are available from a non-controlled extension phase not included in our review; however, no valid comparative conclusions can be drawn and future studies should assess comparatively long-term outcomes both for safety and efficacy.

Compliance and satisfaction with deferasirox (Exjade®) compared with deferoxamine in patients with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia

OBJECTIVE

The current standard option for iron chelation therapy (ICT) in transfusion-dependent patients with beta-thalassemia is deferoxamine (DFO). We aimed to compare the compliance with DFO vs. deferasirox (Exjade®), a novel oral iron chelator, in patients with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 220 patients from Southern Iran who were receiving DFO or Exjade® for the last 2 years were investigated in 2012. Satisfaction, compliance, convenience, and life disturbances of the patients with ICT were evaluated. Assessments were performed at four different occasions during 1 year.

RESULTS

According to the results, 114 patients received treatment with DFO and 106 patients were treated with Exjade®. In comparison with the patients who were treated with DFO, those receiving Exjade® reported a significantly higher rate of compliance and convenience (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding their satisfaction (P > 0.05). In the DFO group, 44.9% of the patients reported irritation and pain at the injection site.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering higher rate of compliance and convenience with Exjade® and the comparable efficacy of these two modalities of ICT documented in previous studies, Exjade® can be used as a preferable choice of ICT in iron-overload patients with beta-thalassemia.

Korean guideline for iron chelation therapy in transfusion-induced iron overload

Many Korean patients with transfusion-induced iron overload experience serious clinical sequelae, including organ damage, and require lifelong chelation therapy. However, due to a lack of compliance and/or unavailability of an appropriate chelator, most patients have not been treated effectively. Deferasirox (DFX), a once-daily oral iron chelator for both adult and pediatric patients with transfusion-induced iron overload, is now available in Korea. The effectiveness of deferasirox in reducing or maintaining body iron has been demonstrated in many studies of patients with a variety of transfusion-induced anemias such as myelodysplastic syndromes, aplastic anemia, and other chronic anemias. The recommended initial daily dose of DFX is 20 mg/kg body weight, taken on an empty stomach at least 30 min before food and serum ferritin levels should be maintained below 1000 ng/mL. To optimize the management of transfusion-induced iron overload, the Korean Society of Hematology Aplastic Anemia Working Party (KSHAAWP) reviewed the general consensus on iron overload and the Korean data on the clinical benefits of iron chelation therapy, and developed a Korean guideline for the treatment of iron overload.

Organizing national responses for rare blood disorders: the Italian experience with sickle cell disease in childhood

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most frequent hemoglobinopathy worldwide but remains a rare blood disorder in most western countries. Recommendations for standard of care have been produced in the United States, the United Kingdom and France, where this disease is relatively frequent because of earlier immigration from Africa. These recommendations have changed the clinical course of SCD but can be difficult to apply in other contexts. The Italian Association of Pediatric Hematology Oncology (AIEOP) decided to develop a common national response to the rising number of SCD patients in Italy with the following objectives: 1) to create a national working group focused on pediatric SCD, and 2) to develop tailored guidelines for the management of SCD that could be accessed and practiced by those involved in the care of children with SCD in Italy.

Methods

Guidelines, adapted to the Italian social context and health system, were developed by 22 pediatric hematologists representing 54 AIEOP centers across Italy. The group met five times for a total of 128 hours in 22 months; documents and opinions were circulated via web.

Results

Recommendations regarding the prevention and treatment of the most relevant complications of SCD in childhood adapted to the Italian context and health system were produced.

For each topic, a pathway of diagnosis and care is detailed, and a selection of health management issues crucial to Italy or different from other countries is described (i.e., use of alternatives for infection prophylaxis because of the lack of oral penicillin in Italy).

Conclusions

Creating a network of physicians involved in the day-to-day care of children with SCD is feasible in a country where it remains rare. Providing hematologists, primary and secondary care physicians, and caregivers across the country with web-based guidelines for the management of SCD tailored to the Italian context is the first step in building a sustainable response to a rare but emerging childhood blood disorder and in implementing the World Health Organization’s suggestion “to design (and) implement … comprehensive national integrated programs for the prevention and management of SCD".

Age-related treatment patterns in sickle cell disease patients and the associated sickle cell complications and healthcare costs

BACKGROUND

This study explored the blood transfusion patterns, SCD complications, utilization of iron chelation therapies (ICT), healthcare resource use, and costs in pediatric, transitioning (18 years old) and adult patients with SCD.

PROCEDURE

Data from Florida (1998-2009), New Jersey (1996-2009), Missouri (1997-2010), Kansas (2001-2009), and Iowa (1998-2010) state Medicaid were used. Patients with ≥2 SCD diagnoses and ≥1 transfusion event were included. Rates of transfusion events, SCD complications, and proportion of eligible patients receiving ICT were calculated. ICT eligibility was defined as receiving ≥10 transfusions over lifetime. SCD complications included pain, pulmonary event, infection event, renal, cardiovascular, stroke, leg ulcers, and avascular necrosis. Regressions were used to assess risk factors for transfusion and identify the main drivers of costs.

RESULTS

The sample included 3,208 patients. The transfusion rate increased from 1-year-old to a peak at 16 years old, then dropped until age 26 and remained stable thereafter. In contrast the frequency of diagnoses for SCD complications increased markedly after age 16. Post-transition patients (≥18 years old) were significantly associated with fewer transfusions (odds ratio: 0.80, P = 0.002). Among eligible patients for ICT, there was no statistically significant difference in total cost between the ICT and no ICT groups (adjusted cost difference, $136, P = 0.114).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients transitioning to adult care received less transfusions and hydroxyurea, less ICT when eligible for chelation therapy, had higher healthcare costs and suffered from more frequent SCD related complications than pediatric patients. These findings highlight the changes in treatment patterns corresponding to transition to adult care.

Iranian experience of deferasirox (Exjade(®)) in transfusion-dependent patients with iron overload: what is the most effective dose based on serum ferritin levels?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of deferasirox in patients from Iran.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, observational study in regularly transfused, iron-overloaded patients who received deferasirox 20-38 mg/kg/day for up to 12 months. Changes in serum ferritin were assessed as follows: from baseline to 3 months with deferasirox doses of 20-24 mg/kg/day; from 3 to 6 months with doses of 25-29 mg/kg/day; and from 6 to 12 months with doses of 30-38 mg/kg/day. The safety of deferasirox was evaluated monthly. Patients' satisfaction with treatment was assessed after 9 months.

RESULTS

One hundred and nineteen patients were included. Overall mean serum ferritin levels were significantly decreased from baseline after 12 months of deferasirox therapy (2510 ± 1210 to 1665 ± 1240 ng/ml; P < 0.002). A significant decrease was observed once doses were increased to ≥30 mg/kg/day (P = 0.0003). Most adverse events were mild and observed at the dose of 20-24 mg/kg. Only one patient discontinued treatment. Around 90% of patients were satisfied with therapy.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study evaluating deferasirox in heavily iron-overloaded patients from Iran and confirms that deferasirox is effective and well tolerated; however, dose increases to ≥30 mg/kg/day should be considered if efficacy is insufficient.

Long-term persistency and costs associated with the use of iron chelation therapies in the treatment of Sickle cell disease within Medicaid programs

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective study evaluated iron chelating therapy (ICT) discontinuation and costs in Sickle cell disease (SCD) Medicaid recipients using healthcare claims from 2006-2010.

METHODS

Patients with ≥1 SCD diagnosis claim, ≥2 claims for deferoxamine (DFO) or deferosirox (DFX), and continuous enrollment ≥6 months prior to and 18 months following ICT initiation were included. Outcomes included treatment discontinuation, persistence (i.e., refill gaps ≥6 weeks), and total healthcare costs.

RESULTS

The average age among 404 SCD patients meeting study inclusion criteria was 18.7 (±11.0) years, with 45.8% being males and 66.7% being Blacks. Switches or combinations from DFO at index occurred in 124 (74.7%) patients compared to 10 (4.2%) with DFX at index. The Cox regression model that assessed long-term medication persistence indicated a 1.30-times higher likelihood of treatment discontinuation with DFO compared to DFX (95% CI: 1.06-1.61). Some 19.7% of patient remained on DFX relative to 4.8% on DFO. Both inpatient and total costs were similar in DFX and DFO treatment groups. Following 1 year of treatment, 37.4% remained on DFX compared to 15.7% on DFO. Meaningful differences in treatment discontinuation between the two treatment groups did not occur until 220+ days during the study period. At 18-months, treatment discontinuation rates were high in both groups; 95% for DFO and 80% for DFX.

CONCLUSION

This study of SCD Medicaid patients found more therapeutic switches from DFO to DFX and a higher medication persistency rate with DFX than DFO. The conclusions are limited by the study's retrospective nature, which depends on multivariate statistics to account for patient heterogeneity and risk factors.

Health-Related Quality of Life, Treatment Satisfaction, Adherence and Persistence in β-Thalassemia and Myelodysplastic Syndrome Patients with Iron Overload Receiving Deferasirox: Results from the EPIC Clinical Trial

Treatment of iron overload using deferoxamine (DFO) is associated with significant deficits in patients' health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and low treatment satisfaction. The current article presents patient-reported HRQOL, satisfaction, adherence, and persistence data from β-thalassemia (n = 274) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients (n = 168) patients participating in the Evaluation of Patients' Iron Chelation with Exjade (EPIC) study (NCT00171821); a large-scale 1-year, phase IIIb study investigating the efficacy and safety of the once-daily oral iron chelator, deferasirox. HRQOL and satisfaction, adherence, and persistence to iron chelation therapy (ICT) data were collected at baseline and end of study using the Medical Outcomes Short-Form 36-item Health Survey (SF-36v2) and the Satisfaction with ICT Questionnaire (SICT). Compared to age-matched norms, β-thalassemia and MDS patients reported lower SF-36 domain scores at baseline. Low levels of treatment satisfaction, adherence, and persistence were also observed. HRQOL improved following treatment with deferasirox, particularly among β-thalassemia patients. Furthermore, patients reported high levels of satisfaction with deferasirox at end of study and greater ICT adherence, and persistence. Findings suggest deferasirox improves HRQOL, treatment satisfaction, adherence, and persistence with ICT in β-thalassemia and MDS patients. Improving such outcomes is an important long-term goal for patients with iron overload.

[Myelodysplastic syndrome in the elderly: comprehensive geriatric assessment and therapeutic recommendations]

The onset of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) is usually around the age of 70. Despite this, most clinical trials are restricted to younger subjects. Thus, the management of elderly patients with MDS is not always optimal. Physiologically, elderly patients show characteristics that differ from those of younger patients and that condition their pharmacological treatment. In this regard, the comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) becomes particularly important. This document gathers conclusions from the 1(st) Meeting of Members of the Sociedad Española de Medicina Geriátrica and the Sociedad Española de Hematología y Hemoterapia, with the objective of proposing the establishment of CGA instruments to assist in the decision-making process of elderly patients with MDS. The results of this consensus document will focus on the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment and management of adverse events in this age group.

The role of galenic innovation in improving treatment compliance and persistence: three case studies

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to explore whether newer galenic formulations with lower treatment burdens are associated with better patient compliance and persistence compared with older more burdensome modalities.

METHODS

Data from the IMS Disease Analyzer database were analyzed retrospectively for two pairs of analogs (alendronate sodium once daily vs once weekly and immediate-release vs extended-release methylphenidate) and one pair of drugs with similar indications but important differences in convenience and dosing instructions (desferrioxamine vs deferasirox). Compliance was calculated as the sum of prescription durations for all prescriptions for each patient over 1 year. Persistence was calculated as the time between first and last prescriptions over 2 years (1 year for deferasirox and desferrioxamine). Data from Germany and the UK were available and used for analysis.

RESULTS

Incremental improvements in compliance were +30% in the UK and +26% in Germany for alendronate once weekly vs once daily, +14% in the UK and +19% in Germany for extended-release vs immediate-release methylphenidate, and +15% in Germany for desferrioxamine vs deferasirox. Incremental improvements in persistence were +9 months in the UK and +8 months in Germany for alendronate once weekly vs once daily, +4 months in the UK and +3 months in Germany for extended-release vs immediate-release methylphenidate, and +2 months in Germany for deferasirox vs desferrioxamine.

CONCLUSION

The new formulations that we evaluated were associated with better compliance and persistence compared with older formulations. Despite the fact that some sources of bias could not be excluded, it is likely that these improvements can be attributed to the lower treatment burdens of the galenic formulations of the drugs considered. Further investigation is required to confirm these findings and to determine whether new galenic formulations can improve health outcomes in routine clinical practice.

Challenges of adherence and persistence with iron chelation therapy

Due to advances in medical sciences, many chronic diseases that formerly resulted in early death can now be effectively managed with long-term treatment regimens. Patients with potentially fatal anemias, for example, can be treated with ongoing blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy. Ensuring adherence and persistence is challenging, as the benefits of therapy are not perceived immediately. Poor adherence severely compromises the effectiveness of treatment and, therefore, improving compliance in terms of quality of life and health economics is critical. Although adherence to chelation therapy is generally poor, the availability of oral iron chelators may help to improve patient compliance. For chronic conditions such as thalassemia major, even when oral chelation therapy is available, support by an integrated team including a clinical psychologist and nurse specialist working with the treatment center is recommended to achieve optimal results.

Iron chelator deferasirox rescued mice from Fas-induced fulminant hepatitis

AIM

  Fulminant hepatitis is a disease characterized by development of hepatic failure due to severe liver cell injury. Orthotopic liver transplantation is the therapy proven to improve patient survival; however, less burdensome and safer strategies are required. In a previous study, we showed that iron was intimately involved in hepatocyte apoptosis by demonstrating that spontaneous development of fulminant hepatitis in Long-Evans cinnamon rats was prevented by feeding an iron-deficient diet. Recently, a new iron chelator, deferasirox, has become widely available for the treatment of transfusional hemosiderosis. Deferasirox demonstrated good efficacy and improved compliance due to convenient, once-daily p.o. administration. Our aim was to investigate the efficacy of deferasirox as a therapeutic drug against fulminant hepatitis.

METHODS

  Human primary hepatocytes undergoing Fas-stimulated apoptosis were challenged with deferoxamine (DFO) in vitro. In further in vivo experiments, we tested DFO in a mice model of fulminant hepatitis induced by Fas-stimulation.

RESULTS

  The apoptosis-inducing activity of anti-Fas antibody on human primary hepatocytes was inhibited by the chelation of iron with DFO. DFO suppressed the Fas-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activation of caspase-3, both of which were also suppressed by antioxidant, N-acetyl-L-cystein. In the in vivo experiments, deferasirox effectively reduced hepatic iron concentrations and rescued mice from Fas-induced fulminant hepatitis.

CONCLUSION

  These findings indicated that the iron chelation exerted a hepatoprotective effect by scavenging ROS upstream of caspase-3 and that iron chelation with deferasirox is a potential treatment for patients with fulminant hepatitis.

Recent advances in β-thalassemias

β-thalassemias are heterogeneous hereditary anemias characterized by a reduced output of β-globin chains. The disease is most frequent in the temperate regions of the world, where it represents an important health problem. In the last decades, several programs, aimed at controlling the birth rate of thalassemia newborns by screening and prenatal diagnosis of populations with high risk of β-thalassemia, have been successful accomplished. Bone marrow transplantation has offered a definitive cure for the fraction of patients with available donors. In the same time, steady improvements were made in the traditional clinical management of β-thalassemia patients. The introduction of the oral iron chelators deferiprone that preferentially chelates hearth iron and the development of novel NMR diagnostic methods has led to reduced morbility, increased survival and improved quality of life. More recently, major advances have being made in the discovery of critical modifier genes, such as Myb and especially BCL11A (B cell lymphoma 11A), a master regulator of HbF (fetal hemoglobin) and hemoglobin switching. Polimorphysms of BCL11A, Myb and γ-globin genes account for most of the variability in the clinical phenotypes in β-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia patients. Finally, the year 2010 has brought in the first successful experiment of gene therapy in a β-thalassemia patient, opening up the perspective of a generalized cure for all β- thalassemia patients.

Deferasirox protects against iron-induced hepatic injury in Mongolian gerbil

Iron overload is associated with an increased risk of liver complications including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Deferasirox is a new oral chelator with high iron-binding potency and selectivity. Here we investigate the ability of deferasirox to remove excessive hepatic iron and prevent iron-induced hepatic injury. Adult male Mongolian gerbils were divided into 3 groups (n=5/group)-control, iron overload (100 mg iron-dextran/kg body weight/5 days; intraperitoneal for 10 weeks), and iron overload followed by deferasirox treatment (100 mg deferasirox/kg body weight/d; pulse oral for 1 or 3 months). Compared with the nontreated iron overload group, deferasirox reduced hepatic iron concentration by 44% after 3 months of treatment (P<0.05). Histological analysis of hepatic tissue from the iron overloaded group detected frequent iron deposition, evidence of hepatic damage, and an accumulation of lipid vacuoles. Iron deposition was significantly diminished with deferasirox treatment, and no evidence of lipid accumulation was observed. Immunoblotting demonstrated that iron overload caused approximately 2-fold increase in hepatic ferritin expression (P<0.05), which was 48% lower after 3 months of deferasirox treatment (P<0.05). Deferasirox treatment also was associated with reduced hepatic protein oxidation, superoxide abundance, and cell death. The percentage of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling positive cells in the deferasirox-treated livers was 41% lower than that of iron overloaded group (P<0.05). Similarly, an iron-related increase in the expression of Bax/Bcl2, Bad, and caspase-3 were significantly lower after deferasirox treatment. These findings suggest that deferasirox may confer protection against iron-induced hepatic toxicity.

Pharmacoeconomic considerations in treating iron overload in patients with β-thalassaemia, sickle cell disease and myelodysplastic syndromes in the US: a literature review

Patients with β-thalassaemia, sickle cell disease (SCD) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) require chronic blood transfusions, which can lead to iron overload and substantial morbidity and mortality. To reduce the excess iron and its deleterious effects, available iron chelation therapy (ICT) in the US includes oral deferasirox or infusional deferoxamine (DFO). The aim of this study was to review and synthesize the available pharmacoeconomic evidence on ICT in patients with β-thalassaemia, SCD and MDS in the US. We systematically identified and reviewed pharmacoeconomic studies of ICT in patients with β-thalassaemia, SCD and MDS that either were published in MEDLINE-indexed, English-language journals from 1999 to 2009, or appeared in medical society websites and scientific meeting abstracts. We assessed available cost-of-illness, cost-of-treatment, cost-consequence, cost-effectiveness, utility and patient-satisfaction studies. The majority of the 20 identified studies assessed cost of treatment, mainly focusing on acquisition and administration costs of ICTs. Gaps in the published literature include current data on direct medical costs for patients with MDS, direct medical costs associated with complications of iron overload, direct non-medical costs, indirect costs and patient utilities. Different underlying model assumptions, methodologies and comparators were found in the cost-effectiveness studies, which yielded a broad range of incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for different ICTs. Comprehensive cost-of-illness studies are needed to address data gaps in the published literature regarding the economic burden of iron overload. Comparative-effectiveness studies that evaluate clinical, economic and patient-reported outcomes would help the medical community to better understand the value of different ICTs.

Transfusion and chelation practices in sickle cell disease: a regional perspective

Although most common in tropical regions, population migration has meant that sickle cell disease is now one of the most prevalent genetic diseases worldwide. The issues and challenges faced by physicians and patients have been discussed by an international group of experts representing 4 key regions: the USA, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East/Africa. Conclusive evidence to support the use of transfusion therapy for the prevention of stroke has resulted in key changes to patient management in all regions, and increasing numbers of patients are benefiting from this management approach. However, it is apparent that transfusion therapy is still under-utilized, largely due to concerns over iron overload, alloimmunization, limited blood supplies, and, sometimes, due to parental refusal. Once transfused, assessment and management of body iron levels can be poor, particularly in patients who are intermittently transfused. Compliance with chelation therapy regimens is a significant challenge, but new therapeutic options are likely to overcome some of the current barriers. Key requirements in all regions were considered to be the following: to provide greater physician, patient, and family education; to ensure effective transition from pediatric to adult care; and to establish national guidelines in order to ensure best practice is consistently applied.

Iron in sickle-cell disease: what have we learned over the years?

Over the last four decades, monumental advances have been made in the understanding, assessment, and management of transfusion-dependent patients, which have translated into significant improvements in patient morbidity and mortality. Important lessons have been learned from extensive clinical experience of iron management in the thalassemias, but greater knowledge of key differences in the sickle-cell disease (SCD) population may impact on our approach to patient assessment and management. The unique pathophysiology of SCD is reflected in a distinct pattern of iron loading with minimal organ-specific injury. An appreciation and understanding of these differences should allow us to develop tailored management approaches that optimize patient outcomes.

Safety and efficacy of high dose intravenous desferrioxamine for reduction of iron overload in sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) receiving chronic blood transfusions are at risk of developing iron overload and organ toxicity. Chelation therapy with either subcutaneous (SQ) desferrioxamine (DFO) or oral deferasirox is effective in preventing and reducing iron overload but poses significant challenges with patient compliance. Intravenous (IV) infusions of high dose DFO have been utilized in non-compliant patients with heavy iron overload in small case series.

PROCEDURE

We review our experience of high dose IV DFO in 27 patients with SCD who had significant iron overload and were noncompliant with subcutaneous (SQ) DFO. All patients were treated in-hospital with DFO 15 mg/kg/hr IV for 48 hr every 2-4 weeks with a mean duration of 19.6 months.

RESULTS

We observed a significant decrease in liver iron burden with high dose intermittent IV DFO. Histological examination of liver biopsies revealed a decrease in the grade of liver iron storage. Also there was significant improvement in liver enzymes (ALT, AST) after high dose IV DFO. No audiologic or ophthalmologic toxicity or acute or chronic pulmonary complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort of patients with SCD we observed a significant decrease in liver iron burden with high dose IV DFO. Our patients tolerated the therapy well without any major toxicity. This regimen is safe and may be an option for poorly compliant patients with significant iron overload.

Deferasirox for managing transfusional iron overload in people with sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of genetic haemoglobin disorders. Increasingly, some people with SCD develop secondary iron overload due to occasional red blood cell transfusions or are on long-term transfusion programmes for e.g. secondary stroke prevention. Iron chelation therapy can prevent long-term complications.Deferoxamine and deferiprone have been found to be efficacious. However, questions exist about the effectiveness and safety of the new oral chelator deferasirox.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of oral deferasirox in people with SCD and secondary iron overload.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cystic Fibrosis & Genetic Disorders Group's Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register (06 April 2010).We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBMR, Biosis Previews, Web of Science, Derwent Drug File, XTOXLINE and three trial registries: www.controlled-trials.com; www.clinicaltrials.gov; www.who.int./ictrp/en/. Most recent searches: 22 June 2009.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials comparing deferasirox with no therapy or placebo or with another iron chelating treatment schedule.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed study quality and extracted data. We contacted the study author for additional information.

MAIN RESULTS

One study (203 people) was included comparing the efficacy and safety of deferasirox and deferoxamine after 12 months. Data were not available on mortality or end-organ damage. Using a pre-specified dosing algorithm serum ferritin reduction was similar in both groups, mean difference (MD) 375.00 microg/l in favour of deferoxamine; (95% confidence interval (CI) -106.08 to 856.08). Liver iron concentration measured by superconduction quantum interference device showed no difference for the overall group of patients adjusted for transfusion category, MD -0.20 mg Fe/g dry weight (95% CI -3.15 to 2.75).Mild stable increases in creatine were observed more often in people treated with deferasirox, risk ratio 1.64 (95% CI 0.98 to 2.74). Abdominal pain and diarrhoea occurred significantly more often in people treated with deferasirox. Rare adverse events (less than 5% increase) were not reported; long-term adverse events could not be measured in the included study (follow-up 52 weeks). Patient satisfaction with, and convenience of treatment were significantly better with deferasirox.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Deferasirox appears to be as effective as deferoxamine. However, only limited evidence is available assessing the efficacy regarding patient-important outcomes. The short-term safety of deferasirox seems to be acceptable, however, follow-up was too short to exclude long-term side effects and thus treatment with deferasirox cannot be judged completely safe. Future studies should assess long-term outcomes for safety and efficacy, and also evaluate rarer adverse effects.

An instrument assessing satisfaction with iron chelation therapy: Psychometric testing from an open-label clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

The Satisfaction with Iron Chelation Therapy (SICT) instrument was developed based on a literature review, in-depth patient and clinician interviews, and cognitive debriefing interviews. An, open-label, single arm, multicenter trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of deferasirox in patients diagnosed with transfusion-dependent iron overload, provided an opportunity to assess the psychometric measurement properties of the instrument.

METHODS

Psychometric analyses were performed using data at baseline from 273 patients with a range of transfusion-dependent iron overload conditions who were participating in a multinational study. Responsiveness was further evaluated for all patients who also had subsequent satisfaction domain scores collected at week 4.

RESULTS

Baseline SICT domain scores had acceptable floor and ceiling effects and internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alpha: 0.75-0.85). Item discriminant and item convergent validity were both excellent although one item in each analysis did not meet the specified criterion. Small to moderate correlations were observed between SICT and Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) domain scores. Patients with the highest levels of serum ferritin at baseline (>3100 ng/mL) were the least satisfied about the Perceived Effectiveness of ICT and vice versa. Satisfaction improved in all patients, although there were no clear differences observed between groups of patients defined according to changes in serum ferritin levels from baseline to week 4 (stable, improved, or worsened).

CONCLUSIONS

The SICT domains are reliable and valid. Further testing using a more specific criterion (such as assessing patient global ratings of change in satisfaction domains that correspond to the SICT domains) could help to establish with greater confidence the responsiveness of the instrument.

The effect of deferasirox on cardiac iron in thalassemia major: impact of total body iron stores

We present results from a prospective, multicenter, open-label, single-arm study evaluating response of cardiac and liver iron to deferasirox therapy for 18 months. Twenty-eight patients with abnormal T2* and normal left ventricular ejection fraction were enrolled from 4 US centers. All patients initially received deferasirox doses of 30 to 40 mg/kg per day. Patients were severely iron overloaded: mean liver iron concentration (LIC) 20.3 mg Fe/g dry weight, serum ferritin 4417 ng/mL, and cardiac T2* 8.6 ms. In the intent-to-treat population, 48% reached the primary endpoint (cardiac T2* improvement at 18 months, P = not significant). There were 2 deaths: 1 from congestive heart failure and 1 from sepsis. In the 22 patients completing the trial, LIC and cardiac T2* improvements were 16% (P = .06) and 14% (P = .07), respectively. Cardiac T2* improvement (13 patients) was predicted by initial LIC, final LIC, and percentage LIC change, but not initial cardiac T2*. Cardiac iron improved 24% in patients having LIC in the lower 2 quartiles and worsened 8.7% in patients having LIC in the upper 2 quartiles. Left ventricular ejection fraction was unchanged at all time points. Monotherapy with deferasirox was effective in patients with mild to moderate iron stores but failed to remove cardiac iron in patients with severe hepatic iron burdens. This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00447694.

Socio-psychological impact of infused iron chelation therapy with deferoxamine in metropolitan France: ISOSFER study results

Deferoxamine (DFO) is an iron chelator used to treat iron overload in patients receiving chronic blood transfusions, and is usually administered as overnight subcutaneous infusions. ISOSFER was a prospective, observational, cross-sectional study conducted in metropolitan France that evaluated patient characteristics, quality of life (QoL), compliance and patient satisfaction with DFO monotherapy. Of 70 patients with either thalassemia, sickle cell disease or myelodysplastic syndromes, 30% were 'satisfied' or 'very satisfied' with DFO. Patients' SF-36 scores were lower than those of the general French population, and lower among patients with comorbidities and those dissatisfied with treatment. Although 72% of patients had good compliance to DFO, 57% reported missing at least one infusion in the previous month, and 82% of patients expressed a preference for oral therapy. These results suggest that QoL is severely compromised in patients receiving DFO, and that compliance is not optimal.

Sickle cell disease and stroke

Twenty-four percent of sickle cell disease (SCD) patients have a stroke by the age of 45 years. Blood transfusions decrease stroke risk in patients deemed high risk by transcranial Doppler. However, transcranial Doppler has poor specificity, and transfusions are limited by alloimmunization and iron overload. Transfusion withdrawal may be associated with an increased rebound stroke risk. Extended blood typing decreases alloimmunization in SCD but is not universally adopted. Transfusions for thalassemia begun in early childhood are associated with lower rates of alloimmunization than are seen in SCD, suggesting immune tolerance. Optimal oxygen transport efficiency occurs at a relatively low hematocrit for SCD patients because of hyperviscosity. Consequently, exchange rather than simple transfusions are more effective in improving oxygen transport efficiency, but the former are technically more demanding and require more blood units. Although viscosity is of importance in the noncerebral manifestations of SCD, inflammation may play a larger role than viscosity in the development of large-vessel stroke. The future of SCD stroke management lies in the avoidance of transfusion. Hydroxyurea and anti-inflammatory measures may reduce the need for transfusion. Recent genome-wide association studies may provide methods for modulating fetal hemoglobin production enough to attenuate stroke risk and other complications of SCD.

Efficacy of deferasirox in reducing and preventing cardiac iron overload in beta-thalassemia

Cardiac iron overload causes most deaths in beta-thalassemia major. The efficacy of deferasirox in reducing or preventing cardiac iron overload was assessed in 192 patients with beta-thalassemia in a 1-year prospective, multicenter study. The cardiac iron reduction arm (n = 114) included patients with magnetic resonance myocardial T2* from 5 to 20 ms (indicating cardiac siderosis), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 56% or more, serum ferritin more than 2500 ng/mL, liver iron concentration more than 10 mg Fe/g dry weight, and more than 50 transfused blood units. The prevention arm (n = 78) included otherwise eligible patients whose myocardial T2* was 20 ms or more. The primary end point was the change in myocardial T2* at 1 year. In the cardiac iron reduction arm, the mean deferasirox dose was 32.6 mg/kg per day. Myocardial T2* (geometric mean +/- coefficient of variation) improved from a baseline of 11.2 ms (+/- 40.5%) to 12.9 ms (+/- 49.5%) (+16%; P < .001). LVEF (mean +/- SD) was unchanged: 67.4 (+/- 5.7%) to 67.0 (+/- 6.0%) (-0.3%; P = .53). In the prevention arm, baseline myocardial T2* was unchanged from baseline of 32.0 ms (+/- 25.6%) to 32.5 ms (+/- 25.1%) (+2%; P = .57) and LVEF increased from baseline 67.7 (+/- 4.7%) to 69.6 (+/- 4.5%) (+1.8%; P < .001). This prospective study shows that deferasirox is effective in removing and preventing myocardial iron accumulation. This study is registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00171821.

Update on the use of deferasirox in the management of iron overload

Regular blood transfusions as supportive care for patients with chronic anemia inevitably lead to iron overload as humans cannot actively remove excess iron. The cumulative effects of iron overload cause significant morbidity and mortality if not effectively treated with chelation therapy. Based on a comprehensive clinical development program, the once-daily, oral iron chelator deferasirox (Exjade((R))) is approved for the treatment of transfusional iron overload in adult and pediatric patients with various transfusion-dependent anemias, including beta-thalassemia and the myelodysplastic syndromes. Deferasirox dose should be titrated for each individual patient based on transfusional iron intake, current iron burden and whether the goal is to decrease or maintain body iron levels. Doses of >30 mg/kg/day have been shown to be effective with a safety profile consistent with that observed at doses <30 mg/kg/day. Recent data have highlighted the ability of deferasirox to decrease cardiac iron levels and to prevent the accumulation of iron in the heart. The long-term efficacy and safety of deferasirox for up to 5 years of treatment have now been established. The availability of this effective and generally well tolerated oral therapy represents a significant advance in the management of transfusional iron overload.

A time-cost augmented economic evaluation of oral deferasirox versus infusional deferoxamine [corrected] for patients with iron overload in South Korea

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to conduct an economic evaluation of oral deferasirox (DSX) compared with infusional deferoxamine (DFO) in patients with transfusional iron overload.

METHODS

Depending on the methods for measuring time-cost and convenience associated with the mode of administration, either cost-utility analysis or cost-effectiveness analysis was undertaken. The difference in compliance rate between DSX and DFO was applied.

RESULTS

Although the drug cost of DSX was US$124,070 higher than that of DFO (US$96,039 vs. US$220,199), all other costs were lower in patients with DSX than in patients with DFO. In the cost-utility analysis, DSX resulted in US$3197 savings with a gain of 2.63 quality-adjusted life-years per patient. The result of the cost-effectiveness analysis also showed that DSX dominated DFO.

CONCLUSIONS

With a considerable improvement in convenience and injection time rather than efficacy, DSX is considered as a dominant therapy for patients with iron overload.

The spleen in the sickling disorders: an update

In early life, patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) can have acute, life-threatening emergencies related to splenic hypofunction (overwhelming bacterial sepsis), as well as anemic crises from acute splenic sequestration because of sudden pooling of blood in the spleen. The landmark penicillin prophylaxis study in 1985 showed a remarkable decrease in mortality from sepsis in young children with SCD who were treated with oral penicillin prophylaxis compared to placebo. Since that study, newborns are screened for SCD and placed on oral penicillin prophylaxis in nearly all of the United States, as well as in other countries where the disease is highly prevalent. The previously described permanent, complete and nearly universal "autosplenectomy" emerging by late childhood or early adulthood is now challenged by recent findings of reversibility of splenic dysfunction by the antisickling drug hydroxyurea or by successful allogeneic stem cell transplantation, even in older patients. Imaging techniques for hypofunction of the spleen are the most commonly used modalities to guide the clinician in decisions regarding medical or surgical management.

Myelodysplasia paranoia: iron as the new radon

Few areas concerning the care of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) have prompted as much disagreement among clinicians as the appropriate role of iron chelation therapy. At least eight conflicting guidelines or consensus statements on iron management in MDS have been published by medical organizations during the past 6 years. Uncertainties about the clinical importance of iron overload and the necessity for iron chelation in transfusion-requiring patients with MDS have caused confusion for patients. Here, I summarize what we have learned and what we still do not know about the diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring and treatment of iron overload in patients with MDS, including the merits and drawbacks of the oral iron chelator, deferasirox. I also draw parallels between iron and radon with respect to the possibility of biological harm, lack of definitive study results, existence of groups at special risk, and fear that the ongoing uncertainties about these elements incite in patients.

Long-term experience with deferasirox (ICL670), a once-daily oral iron chelator, in the treatment of transfusional iron overload

BACKGROUND

Chronic iron overload from frequent blood transfusions to treat patients with severe anaemias leads to significant morbidity and mortality. While deferoxamine, the current standard of care, is an effective iron chelator, it requires subcutaneous infusion for 8-12 h/day, 5-7 days/week. This regimen is problematic and impacts significantly on patients' daily life.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of deferasirox, a once-daily oral iron chelator.

METHOD

To review the available data reported in peer-reviewed journals (using PubMed) and at medical conferences.

RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS

Deferasirox is effective in reducing or maintaining iron burden in patients with transfusion-dependent anaemias. As deferasirox is orally administered, the inconvenience of parenteral administration with deferasirox is avoided. Deferasirox improves patient satisfaction and is expected to improve compliance with iron chelation therapy.