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Divaris E, Kostopoulos G, Efstathiadou ZA. Current and Emerging Pharmacological Therapies for Cushing's Disease. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:757-777. [PMID: 38424426 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128290025240216110928] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Cushing's Disease (CD), hypercortisolism due to pituitary ACTH secreting neuroendocrine neoplasm, is associated with increased morbidity and, if untreated, mortality in about half of the affected individuals. Consequently, the timely initiation of effective treatment is mandatory. Neurosurgery is the first line and the only potentially curative treatment; however, 30% of patients will have persistent disease post-surgery. Furthermore, a small percentage of those initially controlled will develop hypercortisolism during long-term follow- up. Therefore, patients with persistent or recurrent disease, as well as those considered non-eligible for surgery, will need a second-line therapeutic approach, i.e., pharmacotherapy. Radiation therapy is reserved as a third-line therapeutic option due to its slower onset of action and its unfavorable profile regarding complications. During the past few years, the understanding of molecular mechanisms implicated in the physiology of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis has evolved, and new therapeutic targets for CD have emerged. In the present review, currently available treatments, compounds currently tested in ongoing clinical trials, and interesting, potentially new targets emerging from unraveling molecular mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of Cushing's disease are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathios Divaris
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Kostopoulos
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Zoe A Efstathiadou
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Martino M, Aboud N, Lucchetti B, Salvio G, Arnaldi G. An evaluation of pharmacological options for Cushing's disease: what are the state-of-the-art options? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:557-576. [PMID: 36927238 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2192349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Untreated Cushing's syndrome (CS) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Cortisol normalization is a key goal to treatment. Pituitary surgery remains the first-line approach for Cushing's disease, but sometimes it is impracticable, unsuccessful, or complicated by recurrence. Medical therapy has been historically considered a palliative. However, in the latest years, interest on this topic has grown due to both the availability of new drugs and the reevaluation of the old, commonly used drugs in clinical practice. AREAS COVERED In this article, we will discuss the current options and future directions of medical therapy for CS, aiming at fitting best patients' features. An extensive literature search regarding already approved and investigational principles was conducted (PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov. Available drugs include inhibitors of ACTH secretion, steroidogenesis inhibitors, and glucocorticoid receptor antagonists; drugs acting at different levels can be also combined in uncontrolled patients. EXPERT OPINION Since there is still no standardized pharmacological approach and the superiority of one drug over another has not been established yet in the absence of comparative studies, each time clinicians' choices should be patient-tailored. Age, gender, tumor features, severity of hypercortisolism, comorbidities/complications, rapidity of action, side effects, drug-drug interactions, contraindications, availability, patients' preferences, and costs should be all considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Martino
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Nairus Aboud
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Beatrice Lucchetti
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Arnaldi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
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Mehlich A, Bolanowski M, Mehlich D, Witek P. Medical treatment of Cushing's disease with concurrent diabetes mellitus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1174119. [PMID: 37139336 PMCID: PMC10150952 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1174119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is a severe endocrine disorder characterized by chronic hypercortisolaemia secondary to an overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by a pituitary adenoma. Cortisol excess impairs normal glucose homeostasis through many pathophysiological mechanisms. The varying degrees of glucose intolerance, including impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are commonly observed in patients with CD and contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. Although definitive surgical treatment of ACTH-secreting tumors remains the most effective therapy to control both cortisol levels and glucose metabolism, nearly one-third of patients present with persistent or recurrent disease and require additional treatments. In recent years, several medical therapies demonstrated prominent clinical efficacy in the management of patients with CD for whom surgery was non-curative or for those who are ineligible to undergo surgical treatment. Cortisol-lowering medications may have different effects on glucose metabolism, partially independent of their role in normalizing hypercortisolaemia. The expanding therapeutic landscape offers new opportunities for the tailored therapy of patients with CD who present with glucose intolerance or DM, however, additional clinical studies are needed to determine the optimal management strategies. In this article, we discuss the pathophysiology of impaired glucose metabolism caused by cortisol excess and review the clinical efficacy of medical therapies of CD, with particular emphasis on their effects on glucose homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mehlich
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Bolanowski
- Chair and Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Isotope Treatment, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dawid Mehlich
- Laboratory of Molecular OncoSignalling, International Institute of Molecular Mechanisms and Machines (IMol) Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
- Doctoral School of Medical University of Warsaw, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Przemysław Witek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- *Correspondence: Przemysław Witek,
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Liu YF, Pan L, Feng M. Structural and functional brain alterations in Cushing's disease: A narrative review. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 67:101033. [PMID: 36126747 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Neurocognitive and psychiatric symptoms are non-negligible in Cushing's disease and are accompanied by structural and functional alterations of the brain. In this review, we have summarized multimodal neuroimaging and neurophysiological studies to highlight the current and historical understandings of the structural and functional brain alterations in Cushing's disease. Specifically, structural studies showed atrophy of the gray matter, loss of white matter integrity, and demyelination in widespread brain regions. Functional imaging studies have identified three major functional brain connectome networks influenced by hypercortisolemia: the limbic network, the default mode network, and the executive control network. After endocrinological remission, atrophy of gray matter regions and the compromised functional network activities were partially reversible, and the widespread white matter integrity alterations cannot recover in years. In conclusion, Cushing's disease patients display structural and functional brain connectomic alterations, which provides insights into the neurocognitive and psychiatric symptoms observed in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Fan Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ming Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
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Karena ZV, Shah H, Vaghela H, Chauhan K, Desai PK, Chitalwala AR. Clinical Utility of Mifepristone: Apprising the Expanding Horizons. Cureus 2022; 14:e28318. [PMID: 36158399 PMCID: PMC9499832 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.28318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mifepristone is a progesterone and glucocorticoid receptor antagonist. Medical abortion with mifepristone and prostaglandin has revolutionized the abortion process extending abortion care to the doors of females. From as low as 2 mg/day to doses extending to 600 mg, from daily dosing to single dosage treatment, mifepristone has a wide perspective in the treatment of various pathologies. Cervical dilatation and myometrial contractility have made the utility of mifepristone feasible for second-trimester termination of pregnancy and induction of labor awaiting Food and Drug Administration approvals. Its anti-progesterone action on the menstrual cycle has a new dimension of use as a contraceptive, as well as use as a menstruation inductive agent. Its role in endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, and adenomyosis requires more intensive research. Apoptotic action of mifepristone, interference of heterotypic cell adhesion to the basement membrane, cell migration, growth inhibition of various cancer cell lines, decreased epidermal growth factor expression, suppression of invasive and metastatic cancer potential, increase in tumor necrosis factor, downregulation of cyclin-dependent kinase 2, B-cell lymphoma 2, and Nuclear factor kappa B have opened its potential to be explored as anti-cancer treatment and its effects on leiomyoma. The drug needs to be studied more for the prospectus of its anti-glucocorticoid actions in a wider dimension beyond its acquiescence for the treatment of Cushing syndrome.
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Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is the most prevalent cause of endogenous hypercortisolism. CD is responsible for multiple co-morbidities and increased mortality. Accurate and prompt diagnosis and optimal treatment are essential to improve the prognosis of CD. However, the diagnosis of CD is probably one of the most difficult in endocrinology and, therefore, diagnostic workup should be performed in an experienced center. Transsphenoidal surgery performed by an expert surgeon is the only therapeutic option that can offer definitive cure and remains the first-line treatment in most patients. Second-line treatments include pharmacotherapy, pituitary radiotherapy and bilateral adrenalectomy. The second-line therapeutic strategy is complex, must be individualized and performed in a multidisciplinary expert center. Symptomatic treatments of persisting co-morbidities after remission, which are responsible for increased mortality and impaired quality of life is an important part of medical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Ferriere
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, University Hospital (CHU) of Bordeaux and University of Bordeaux, France
| | - Antoine Tabarin
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, University Hospital (CHU) of Bordeaux and University of Bordeaux, France; INSERM U1215, NeuroCentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, France.
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Favero V, Cremaschi A, Falchetti A, Gaudio A, Gennari L, Scillitani A, Vescini F, Morelli V, Aresta C, Chiodini I. Management and Medical Therapy of Mild Hypercortisolism. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111521. [PMID: 34768949 PMCID: PMC8584167 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mild hypercortisolism (mHC) is defined as an excessive cortisol secretion, without the classical manifestations of clinically overt Cushing's syndrome. This condition increases the risk of bone fragility, neuropsychological alterations, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular events and mortality. At variance with Cushing's syndrome, mHC is not rare, with it estimated to be present in up to 2% of individuals older than 60 years, with higher prevalence (up to 10%) in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension and/or diabetes or with unexplainable bone fragility. Measuring cortisol after a 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test is the first-line test for searching for mHC, and the degree of cortisol suppression is associated with the presence of cortisol-related consequences and mortality. Among the additional tests used for diagnosing mHC in doubtful cases, the basal morning plasma adrenocorticotroph hormone, 24-h urinary free cortisol and/or late-night salivary cortisol could be measured, particularly in patients with possible cortisol-related complications, such as hypertension and diabetes. Surgery is considered as a possible therapeutic option in patients with munilateral adrenal incidentalomas and mHC since it improves diabetes and hypertension and reduces the fracture risk. In patients with mHC and bilateral adrenal adenomas, in whom surgery would lead to persistent hypocortisolism, and in patients refusing surgery or in whom surgery is not feasible, medical therapy is needed. Currently, promising though scarce data have been provided on the possible use of pituitary-directed agents, such as the multi-ligand somatostatin analog pasireotide or the dopamine agonist cabergoline for the-nowadays-rare patients with pituitary mHC. In the more frequently adrenal mHC, encouraging data are available for metyrapone, a steroidogenesis inhibitor acting mainly against the adrenal 11-βhydroxylase, while data on osilodrostat and levoketoconazole, other new steroidogenesis inhibitors, are still needed in patients with mHC. Finally, on the basis of promising data with mifepristone, a non-selective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, in patients with mild cortisol hypersecretion, a randomized placebo-controlled study is ongoing for assessing the efficacy and safety of relacorilant, a selective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, for patients with mild adrenal hypercortisolism and diabetes mellitus/impaired glucose tolerance and/or uncontrolled systolic hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Favero
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.F.); (A.C.); (I.C.)
| | - Arianna Cremaschi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.F.); (A.C.); (I.C.)
| | - Alberto Falchetti
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149 Milan, Italy;
| | - Agostino Gaudio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Luigi Gennari
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Alfredo Scillitani
- Unit of Endocrinology and Diabetology “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza” Hospital, IRCCS, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy;
| | - Fabio Vescini
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Unit, University-Hospital S. M. Misericordia of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Valentina Morelli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Carmen Aresta
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149 Milan, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-61911-2738
| | - Iacopo Chiodini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.F.); (A.C.); (I.C.)
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149 Milan, Italy;
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8
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Yamamoto M, Nakao T, Ogawa W, Fukuoka H. Aggressive Cushing's Disease: Molecular Pathology and Its Therapeutic Approach. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:650791. [PMID: 34220707 PMCID: PMC8242934 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.650791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cushing's disease is a syndromic pathological condition caused by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-secreting pituitary adenomas (ACTHomas) mediated by hypercortisolemia. It may have a severe clinical course, including infection, psychiatric disorders, hypercoagulability, and metabolic abnormalities, despite the generally small, nonaggressive nature of the tumors. Up to 20% of ACTHomas show aggressive behavior, which is related to poor surgical outcomes, postsurgical recurrence, serious clinical course, and high mortality. Although several gene variants have been identified in both germline and somatic changes in Cushing's disease, the pathophysiology of aggressive ACTHomas is poorly understood. In this review, we focused on the aggressiveness of ACTHomas, its pathology, the current status of medical therapy, and future prospects. Crooke's cell adenoma (CCA), Nelson syndrome, and corticotroph pituitary carcinoma are representative refractory pituitary tumors that secrete superphysiological ACTH. Although clinically asymptomatic, silent corticotroph adenoma is an aggressive ACTH-producing pituitary adenoma. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the pathophysiology of aggressive ACTHomas, including these tumors, from a molecular point of view based on genetic, pathological, and experimental evidence. The treatment of aggressive ACTHomas is clinically challenging and usually resistant to standard treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy, and established medical therapy (e.g., pasireotide and cabergoline). Temozolomide is the most prescribed pharmaceutical treatment for these tumors. Reports have shown that several treatments for patients with refractory ACTHomas include chemotherapy, such as cyclohexyl-chloroethyl-nitrosourea combined with 5-fluorouracil, or targeted therapies against several molecules including vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4, programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), and ligand for PD-1. Genetic and experimental evidence indicates that some possible therapeutic candidates are expected, such as epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, and BRAF inhibitor. The development of novel treatment options for aggressive ACTHomas is an emerging task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaaki Yamamoto
- Division of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | | | - Wataru Ogawa
- Division of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hidenori Fukuoka
- Division of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe, Japan
- *Correspondence: Hidenori Fukuoka,
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Newman CB, Blaha MJ, Boord JB, Cariou B, Chait A, Fein HG, Ginsberg HN, Goldberg IJ, Murad MH, Subramanian S, Tannock LR. Lipid Management in Patients with Endocrine Disorders: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5909161. [PMID: 32951056 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This guideline will provide the practicing endocrinologist with an approach to the assessment and treatment of dyslipidemia in patients with endocrine diseases, with the objective of preventing cardiovascular (CV) events and triglyceride-induced pancreatitis. The guideline reviews data on dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk in patients with endocrine disorders and discusses the evidence for the correction of dyslipidemia by treatment of the endocrine disease. The guideline also addresses whether treatment of the endocrine disease reduces ASCVD risk. CONCLUSION This guideline focuses on lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities associated with endocrine diseases, including diabetes mellitus, and whether treatment of the endocrine disorder improves not only the lipid abnormalities, but also CV outcomes. Based on the available evidence, recommendations are made for the assessment and management of dyslipidemia in patients with endocrine diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie B Newman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Michael J Blaha
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jeffrey B Boord
- Department of Administration and Parkview Physicians Group Endocrinology Section, Parkview Health System, Fort Wayne, Indiana
| | - Bertrand Cariou
- Department of Endocrinology, L'institut du thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV Nantes, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Alan Chait
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Henry G Fein
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Sinai Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Henry N Ginsberg
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Ira J Goldberg
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - M Hassan Murad
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-based Practice Center, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Lisa R Tannock
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Clinical management of patients with Cushing syndrome treated with mifepristone: consensus recommendations. Clin Diabetes Endocrinol 2020; 6:18. [PMID: 33292727 PMCID: PMC7596972 DOI: 10.1186/s40842-020-00105-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While surgery is the first-line treatment for patients with endogenous hypercortisolism (Cushing syndrome [CS]), mifepristone has been shown to be a beneficial medical treatment option, as demonstrated in the SEISMIC (Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Mifepristone in the Treatment of Endogenous Cushing Syndrome) trial. Mifepristone is a competitive glucocorticoid receptor antagonist and progesterone receptor antagonist that is associated with several treatment effects and adverse events that clinicians need to be aware of when considering its use. The objective of this review was to provide updated clinical management recommendations for patients with CS treated with mifepristone. METHODS A panel of endocrinologists from the US with extensive experience in treating patients with CS, including with mifepristone, convened as part of a clinical advisory board to develop a consensus on the practical, real-world clinical management of patients on mifepristone. RESULTS Comprehensive considerations and recommendations are provided for managing mifepristone-associated effects, including symptoms of cortisol withdrawal, hypokalemia, and change in thyroid function; effects related to its antiprogesterone activity; and rash. Additional management strategies to address concomitant medications and special clinical situations, such as surgery and use in specific populations, are also provided. CONCLUSION Safe and effective use of mifepristone requires clinical judgment and close patient monitoring to ensure optimal clinical outcomes. These consensus recommendations provide useful, practical guidance to clinicians using mifepristone.
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Islam MS, Afrin S, Jones SI, Segars J. Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulators-Mechanisms and Therapeutic Utility. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:bnaa012. [PMID: 32365199 PMCID: PMC8659360 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) are a new class of compounds developed to target the progesterone receptor (PR) with a mix of agonist and antagonist properties. These compounds have been introduced for the treatment of several gynecological conditions based on the critical role of progesterone in reproduction and reproductive tissues. In patients with uterine fibroids, mifepristone and ulipristal acetate have consistently demonstrated efficacy, and vilaprisan is currently under investigation, while studies of asoprisnil and telapristone were halted for safety concerns. Mifepristone demonstrated utility for the management of endometriosis, while data are limited regarding the efficacy of asoprisnil, ulipristal acetate, telapristone, and vilaprisan for this condition. Currently, none of the SPRMs have shown therapeutic success in treating endometrial cancer. Multiple SPRMs have been assessed for efficacy in treating PR-positive recurrent breast cancer, with in vivo studies suggesting a benefit of mifepristone, and multiple in vitro models suggesting the efficacy of ulipristal acetate and telapristone. Mifepristone, ulipristal acetate, vilaprisan, and asoprisnil effectively treated heavy menstrual bleeding (HBM) in patients with uterine fibroids, but limited data exist regarding the efficacy of SPRMs for HMB outside this context. A notable class effect of SPRMs are benign, PR modulator-associated endometrial changes (PAECs) due to the actions of the compounds on the endometrium. Both mifepristone and ulipristal acetate are effective for emergency contraception, and mifepristone was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012 for the treatment of Cushing's syndrome due to its additional antiglucocorticoid effect. Based on current evidence, SPRMs show considerable promise for treatment of several gynecologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sara Isabel Jones
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - James Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Madhavan A, Murali K, Raghavendra V, Joshi AKR. Mitigation of metabolic dyshomeostasis by glucocorticoid-receptor antagonism: Insights from animal and human studies. EXCLI JOURNAL 2020; 19:1266-1274. [PMID: 33192210 PMCID: PMC7658459 DOI: 10.17179/excli2020-2814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aishwariya Madhavan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Sciences, Jain (Deemed to be University), Jayanagar 3rd Block, Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560041
| | - Kusuma Murali
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Sciences, Jain (Deemed to be University), Jayanagar 3rd Block, Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560041
| | - Vaishnavi Raghavendra
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Sciences, Jain (Deemed to be University), Jayanagar 3rd Block, Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560041
| | - Apurva Kumar Ramesh Joshi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Sciences, Jain (Deemed to be University), Jayanagar 3rd Block, Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560041,*To whom correspondence should be addressed: Apurva Kumar Ramesh Joshi, Department of Biochemistry, School of Sciences, Jain (Deemed to be University), Jayanagar 3rd Block, Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560041; Tel: +918019236873, E-mail:
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Braun LT, Reincke M. What is the role of medical therapy in adrenal-dependent Cushing's syndrome? Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 34:101376. [PMID: 32063487 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2020.101376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Medical therapy to control hypercortisolism in adrenal Cushing's syndrome is currently not the first-line therapy. However, in many clinical scenarios like pre-surgical treatment, in patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery or in patients with bilateral hyperplasia, medical therapy can be important representing the only viable treatment option. Adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors and glucocorticoid receptor blockers have been used for many years: metyrapone, ketoconazole and mifepristone are in current use and effective. Mitotane can be used as well but is considered second-line therapy because of its high toxicity. Etomidate has a special position as emergency medication in severe hypercortisolism. New drugs are tested in prospective trials (levoketoconazole, osilidrostat and relacorilant) and might become effective alternatives to common drugs. Oher drugs - adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors as well as glucocorticoid receptor antagonists - are currently tested in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah T Braun
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Department for Endocrinology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Department for Endocrinology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
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14
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Díaz-Castro F, Monsalves-Álvarez M, Rojo LE, Del Campo A, Troncoso R. Mifepristone for Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome: Beyond Cushing's Syndrome. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:429. [PMID: 32390830 PMCID: PMC7193078 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of research indicates that cortisol, the glucocorticoid product of the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, plays a role in the pathophysiology of metabolic syndrome. In this regard, chronic exposure to cortisol is associated with risk factors related to metabolic syndrome like weight gain, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, among others. Mifepristone is the only FDA-approved drug with antiglucocorticoids properties for improved the glycemic control in patients with type 2 patients secondary to endogenous Cushing’s syndrome. Mifepristone also have been shown positive effects in rodents models of diabetes and patients with obesity due to antipsychotic treatment. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. In this perspective, we summarized the literature regarding the beneficial effects of mifepristone in metabolic syndrome from animal studies to clinical research. Also, we propose a potential mechanism for the beneficial effects in insulin sensitivity which involved the regulation of mitochondrial function in muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Díaz-Castro
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Nutrición y Actividad Física (LABINAF), Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología en Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Matías Monsalves-Álvarez
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Nutrición y Actividad Física (LABINAF), Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología en Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDIS), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Leonel E Rojo
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Biotecnología Acuícola, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andrea Del Campo
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química y de Farmacia, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Troncoso
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Nutrición y Actividad Física (LABINAF), Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología en Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDIS), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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15
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Abstract
Overt Cushing's syndrome is a severe condition responsible for multiple comorbidities and increased mortality. Effective treatment is essential to reduce mortality, improve comorbidities and long-term quality of life. Surgical resection of the causal lesion(s) is generally the first-line and most effective treatment to normalize cortisol secretion. Adjunctive symptomatic treatments of co-morbidities are often necessary both during the active phase of the disease and for persisting co-morbidities after cessation of hypercortisolism. Second-line treatments include various pharmacological treatments, bilateral adrenalectomy, and radiotherapy of corticotroph tumors. The choice of these treatments is complex, must be performed in a multidisciplinary expert team to be individualized for each patient, and use a shared decision-making approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Ferriere
- Service d'endocrinologie, Diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU de bordeaux, Avenue Magellan 33600, Pessac, France.
| | - Antoine Tabarin
- Service d'endocrinologie, Diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU de bordeaux, Avenue Magellan 33600, Pessac, France; INSERM and University of Bordeaux, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, France.
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16
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Pivonello R, Ferrigno R, De Martino MC, Simeoli C, Di Paola N, Pivonello C, Barba L, Negri M, De Angelis C, Colao A. Medical Treatment of Cushing's Disease: An Overview of the Current and Recent Clinical Trials. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:648. [PMID: 33363514 PMCID: PMC7753248 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is a serious endocrine disorder characterized by chronic hypercortisolism, or Cushing's syndrome (CS), caused by a corticotroph pituitary tumor, which induces an excessive adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and consequently cortisol secretion. CD presents a severe clinical burden, with impairment of the quality of life and increase in mortality. Pituitary surgery represents the first-line therapy, but it is non-curative in one third of patients, requiring additional treatments. Among second-line treatments, medical therapy is gradually gaining importance, although the current medical treatments are unable to reach optimal efficacy and safety profile. Therefore, new drugs and new formulations of presently available drugs are currently under clinical investigation in international clinical trials, in order to assess their efficacy and safety in CD, or in the general population of CS. Among pituitary-directed agents, pasireotide, in the twice-daily subcutaneous formulation, has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment both in clinical trials and in real-world studies, and extension studies of the phase II and III clinical trials reported evidence of long-term efficacy with general good safety profile, although associated with frequent hyperglycemia, which requires monitoring of glucose metabolism. Moreover, the most recent once-monthly intramuscular formulation, pasireotide long-acting release (LAR), showed similar efficacy and safety, but associated with potential better compliance profile in CD. Roscovitine is an experimental drug currently under investigation. Among adrenal-directed agents, metyrapone is the only historical agent currently under investigation in a prospective, multicenter, international clinical trial, that would likely clarify its efficacy and safety in a large population of patients with CS. Osilodrostat, a novel agent with a mechanism of action similar to metyrapone, seems to offer a rapid, sustained, and effective disease control of CD, according to recently completed clinical trials, whereas levoketoconazole, a different chemical formulation of the historical agent ketoconazole, is still under investigation in clinical trials, with preliminary evidences showing an effective and safe control of CS. ATR-101 is an experimental drug currently under investigation. Among glucocorticoid receptor-directed drugs, mifepristone has been demonstrated to improve clinical syndrome and comorbidities, especially hypertension and impairment of glucose metabolism, but the occurrence of hypokalemia and in women uterine disorders, due to the concomitant action on progestin receptor, requires caution, whereas the preliminary evidence on relacorilant, characterized by high selectivity for glucocorticoid receptor, suggested good efficacy in the control of hypertension and impairment of glucose metabolism, as well as a good safety profile, in CS. Finally, a limited experience has demonstrated that combination therapy might be an interesting approach in the management of CD. The current review provides a summary of the available evidences from current and recent clinical trials on CD, with a specific focus on preliminary data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- UNESCO Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosario Ferrigno
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina De Martino
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Simeoli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Di Paola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Livia Barba
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Negri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina De Angelis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- UNESCO Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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17
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Guarda FJ, Findling J, Yuen KCJ, Fleseriu M, Nachtigall LB. Mifepristone Increases Thyroid Hormone Requirements in Patients With Central Hypothyroidism: A Multicenter Study. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1707-1714. [PMID: 31528830 PMCID: PMC6735735 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Mifepristone is a glucocorticoid and progesterone receptor blocker that can be used for patients with hyperglycemia and Cushing syndrome in whom surgery failed to achieve remission or who were ineligible for surgery. We report a case series of patients with Cushing disease (CD) and central hypothyroidism that presented with increased levothyroxine requirements during mifepristone therapy. Methods Retrospective longitudinal case series of patients with CD and central hypothyroidism treated with mifepristone in a retrospective database at four pituitary centers in the United States. Results Five patients with CD were found, all women, median age 50 (interquartile range 47 to 64.5). They received mifepristone because no adequate response or intolerance to other drugs was observed. Mifepristone initiation was associated with a decrease in free thyroxine levels, mandating a dose increase of a median 1.83 (1.71 to 3.5) times the initial dose of levothyroxine to achieve normal levels. Weight loss was seen in four of five patients, ranging from 3.2 to 42.6 kg in up to 54 months of follow-up. Conclusions Although the mechanism behind the decrease in thyroid hormone level is unknown, intestinal malabsorption, decreased residual thyroid function and increased inactivation of T4 via deiodinases are all potential causes. Whereas therapies for hypercortisolism aim to decrease features of hypercortisolemia such as weight gain and depression, hypothyroidism can hamper these goals. This case series raises awareness on the importance of assessment of thyroid status in patients receiving mifepristone to optimize clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J Guarda
- Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Departamento de Endocrinología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - James Findling
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Clinical Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin
| | - Kevin C J Yuen
- Barrow Pituitary Center, Barrow Neurologic Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Creighton School of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Maria Fleseriu
- Departments of Medicine and Neurologic Surgery, Northwest Pituitary Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Lisa B Nachtigall
- Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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18
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Petersenn S, Salgado LR, Schopohl J, Portocarrero-Ortiz L, Arnaldi G, Lacroix A, Scaroni C, Ravichandran S, Kandra A, Biller BMK. Long-term treatment of Cushing's disease with pasireotide: 5-year results from an open-label extension study of a Phase III trial. Endocrine 2017; 57:156-165. [PMID: 28597198 PMCID: PMC5486525 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1316-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treating hypercortisolism in patients with Cushing's disease after failed surgery often requires chronic medication, underlining the need for therapies with favourable long-term efficacy and safety profiles. METHODS In a randomised, double-blind study, 162 adult patients with persistent/recurrent or de novo Cushing's disease received pasireotide. Patients with mean urinary free cortisol at/below the upper limit of normal or clinical benefit at month 12 could continue receiving pasireotide during an open-ended, open-label phase, the outcomes of which are described herein. RESULTS Sixteen patients received 5 years of pasireotide treatment. Among these, median (95% confidence interval) percentage change from baseline in mean urinary free cortisol was -82.6% (-89.0, -41.9) and -81.8% (-89.8, -67.4) at months 12 and 60. Eleven patients had mean urinary free cortisol ≤ upper limit of normal at month 60. Improvements in clinical signs were sustained during long-term treatment. The safety profile of pasireotide at 5 years was similar to that reported after 12 months. Fifteen of 16 patients experienced a hyperglycaemia-related adverse event; glycated haemoglobin levels were stable between months 6 and 60. Adverse events related to hyperglycaemia, bradycardia, gallbladder/biliary tract, and liver safety were most likely to first occur by month 6; adverse event severity did not tend to worsen over time. CONCLUSIONS This represents the longest prospective trial of a medical therapy for Cushing's disease to date. A subset of patients treated with pasireotide maintained biochemical and clinical improvements for 5 years, with no new safety signals emerging. These data support the use of pasireotide as an effective long-term therapy for some patients with Cushing's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Petersenn
- ENDOC Center for Endocrine Tumors, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - L R Salgado
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - J Schopohl
- Medizinische Klinik IV, University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - L Portocarrero-Ortiz
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - G Arnaldi
- Division of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Lacroix
- Division of Endocrinology, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - C Scaroni
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine, Padova University Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - S Ravichandran
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - A Kandra
- Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - B M K Biller
- Neuroendocrine Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Pivonello R, De Martino MC, De Leo M, Simeoli C, Colao A. Cushing's disease: the burden of illness. Endocrine 2017; 56:10-18. [PMID: 27189147 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-016-0984-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome is caused by prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels. The most common form of endogenous Cushing's syndrome is Cushing's disease, which results from an adrenocorticotropic hormone-secreting pituitary tumour. Cushing's disease is associated with increased mortality, mostly attributable to cardiovascular complications, and a host of comorbidities such as metabolic and skeletal disorders, infections and neuropsychiatric disturbances. As a consequence, Cushing's disease substantially impairs health-related quality of life. It is crucial that the condition is diagnosed as early as possible, and that rapid and effective treatment is initiated in order to limit long-term morbidity and mortality. The initial treatment of choice for Cushing's disease is selective transsphenoidal pituitary surgery; however, the risk of recurrence after initial surgery is high and remains so for many decades after surgery. A particular concern is the growing body of evidence indicating that the negative physical and psychosocial sequelae of chronic hypercortisolism may persist in patients with Cushing's disease even after long-term surgical 'cure'. Current treatment options for post-surgical patients with persistent or recurrent Cushing's disease include second surgery, radiotherapy, bilateral adrenalectomy and medical therapy; however, each approach has its limitations and there is an unmet need for more efficacious treatments. The current review provides an overview of the burden of illness of Cushing's disease, underscoring the need for prompt diagnosis and effective treatment, as well as highlighting the need for better therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Via S. Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina De Martino
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Via S. Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Monica De Leo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Via S. Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Simeoli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Via S. Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Via S. Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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20
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Yuen KCJ, Moraitis A, Nguyen D. Evaluation of Evidence of Adrenal Insufficiency in Trials of Normocortisolemic Patients Treated With Mifepristone. J Endocr Soc 2017; 1:237-246. [PMID: 29264481 PMCID: PMC5686650 DOI: 10.1210/js.2016-1097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Context: Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is an important medical concern for clinicians when normocortisolemia is achieved during treatment of endogenous Cushing syndrome (CS). Objective: To examine symptoms of potential AI in a large population of normocortisolemic patients without CS treated with mifepristone, a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist indicated for the treatment of patients with CS. Methods: We conducted a pooled safety analysis of five phase 3, placebo-controlled clinical trials of normocortisolemic adults without CS but diagnosed with psychotic depression (n = 1460). Patients were treated with once-daily mifepristone 300 mg (n = 110), 600 mg (n = 471), or 1200 mg (n = 252), or placebo (n = 627) administered for 7 consecutive days. All study investigators were trained and instructed to assess for the development of AI and to report all adverse events (AEs) at each clinic visit. The incidence of (1) AI or similar terminologies and that of (2) ≥3 concurrent symptoms that could be associated with AI was evaluated. Results: Mean serum cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone levels increased dose dependently with mifepristone treatment. There were no reports of AI and no significant differences between the mifepristone-treated and placebo groups in the incidence of patients having ≥3 AEs that could be associated with AI. Conclusions: This large pooled analysis of normocortisolemic patients without CS found no cases of AI and no differences between mifepristone therapy and placebo in the incidence of symptom combinations mimicking AI, even at the highest (1200 mg) dose. These findings further add clinically important insights to the safety and tolerability profile of mifepristone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C J Yuen
- Swedish Pituitary Center, Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Seattle, Washington 98122; and
| | | | - Dat Nguyen
- Corcept Therapeutics, Menlo Park, California 94025
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21
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Effect of Mifepristone on Corticosteroid Production in Vitro by Adrenal Glands of Rats with Streptozotocin Diabetes. Bull Exp Biol Med 2017; 162:327-330. [PMID: 28091906 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-017-3607-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Changes in pregnenolone and corticosterone production by the adrenal glands of normoglycemic rats receiving the course of intraperitoneal mifepristone or NaCl administration were co-directed, but differed in magnitude. In rats with hyperglycemia, corticosteroid production increased after NaCl administration over 5 days and returned to the initial values after 15-day administration. On the contrary, pregnenolone and corticosterone production was suppressed after 5-day course of mifepristone, but significantly increased after mifepristone administration for 15 days. Intraperitoneal mifepristone administration almost completely abolished the response of rat adrenal glands with normo- and hyperglycemia to ACTH in vitro; this effect did not depend on the duration of administration.
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22
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Cuevas-Ramos D, Lim DST, Fleseriu M. Update on medical treatment for Cushing's disease. Clin Diabetes Endocrinol 2016; 2:16. [PMID: 28702250 PMCID: PMC5471955 DOI: 10.1186/s40842-016-0033-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is the most common cause of endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS). The goal of treatment is to rapidly control cortisol excess and achieve long-term remission, to reverse the clinical features and reduce long-term complications associated with increased mortality. While pituitary surgery remains first line therapy, pituitary radiotherapy and bilateral adrenalectomy have traditionally been seen as second-line therapies for persistent hypercortisolism. Medical therapy is now recognized to play a key role in the control of cortisol excess. In this review, all currently available medical therapies are summarized, and novel medical therapies in phase 3 clinical trials, such as osilodrostat and levoketoconazole are discussed, with an emphasis on indications, efficacy and safety. Emerging data suggests increased efficacy and better tolerability with these novel therapies and combination treatment strategies, and potentially increases the therapeutic options for treatment of CD. New insights into the pathophysiology of CD are highlighted, along with potential therapeutic applications. Future treatments on the horizon such as R-roscovitine, retinoic acid, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors and somatostatin-dopamine chimeric compounds are also described, with a focus on potential clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Cuevas-Ramos
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Neuroendocrinology Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Vasco de Quiroga 15, Sección XVI, Tlalpan, Mexico City, 14030 Mexico
| | - Dawn Shao Ting Lim
- Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology) and Neurological Surgery, and Northwest Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 SW Bond Ave, Mail Code CH8N, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Maria Fleseriu
- Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology) and Neurological Surgery, and Northwest Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 SW Bond Ave, Mail Code CH8N, Portland, OR 97239 USA
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