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Loaiza-Bonilla A, Page RD. Achieving white blood cell equity: are the safety profiles of biosimilar and reference pegfilgrastims comparable? Future Oncol 2024; 20:145-158. [PMID: 37609795 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2023-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Biosimilars can provide choices for patients and may provide cost savings; however, their uptake has been slow in the USA, in part due to limited knowledge. To provide additional confidence in US pegfilgrastim biosimilars, this narrative review compared the safety profiles of biosimilar pegfilgrastims, currently approved or filed for approval in the USA, with the EU- and US-approved reference pegfilgrastims. Headache and bone pain were common to biosimilars and reference products and occurred at a similar incidence. Clinical trial data on the safety profiles of biosimilar pegfilgrastims and reference products have demonstrated similarity and comparability, with no unexpected safety outcomes. Overall, the safety profiles of biosimilar pegfilgrastims and reference pegfilgrastims demonstrated a high degree of similarity and comparability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ray D Page
- The Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders, Fort Worth, TX 76104, USA
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2
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You Z, Zhang H, Huang Y, Zhao L, Tu H, Zhang Y, Lin X, Liang W. Assessing the Optimal Regimen: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy and Safety of Long-Acting Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factors in Patients with Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3675. [PMID: 37509336 PMCID: PMC10378237 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy are susceptible to prolonged and severe neutropenia. Multiple biosimilars of long-acting granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (LA-G-CSFs) have been newly developed to prevent this disease. Nonetheless, which LA-G-CSF regimen has the optimal balance of efficacy and safety remains controversial. Moreover, there is a lack of evidence supporting clinical decisions on LA-G-CSF dose escalation in poor conditions. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and several Chinese databases were searched (December 2022) to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about LA-G-CSFs preventing chemotherapy-induced neutropenia in breast cancer patients. No restrictions were imposed on language. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed. We assessed the incidence of severe neutropenia (SN) and febrile neutropenia (FN), the duration of SN (DSN), and the absolute neutrophil account recovery time (ANCrt) for efficacy, while the incidence of severe adverse events (SAE) was assessed for safety. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022361606). A total of 33 RCTs were included. Our network meta-analysis demonstrated that lipegfilgrastim 6 mg and eflapegrastim 13.2 mg outperformed other LA-G-CSFs with high efficacy rates and few safety concerns (SUCRA of lipegfilgrastim 6 mg: ANC rt 95.2%, FN 97.4%; eflapegrastim 13.2 mg: FN 87%, SN 89.3%). Additionally, 3.6 mg, 4.5 mg, 6 mg, and 13.2 mg dosages all performed significantly better than 1.8 mg in reducing the duration of SN (3.6 mg: DSN, SMD -0.68 [-1.13, -0.22; moderate]; 4.5 mg: -0.87 [-1.57, -0.17; low]; 6 mg: -0.89 [-1.49, -0.29; moderate]; 13.2 mg: -1.02 [1.63, -0.41; high]). Increasing the dosage from the guideline-recommended 6 mg to 13.2 mg can reduce both the duration and incidence of SN (SMD -0.13 [-0.24 to -0.03], RR 0.65 [0.43 to 0.96], respectively), with no significant difference in SAE. For patients with breast cancer, lipegfilgrastim 6 mg and eflapegrastim 13.2 mg might be the most effective regimen among LA-G-CSFs. Higher doses of LA-G-CSF may enhance efficacy without causing additional SAEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixuan You
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanshan School, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510182, China
| | - Haotian Zhang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanshan School, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510182, China
| | - Yining Huang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanshan School, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510182, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanshan School, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510182, China
| | - Hengjia Tu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanshan School, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510182, China
| | - Yuzhuo Zhang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanshan School, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510182, China
| | - Xinqing Lin
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Wenhua Liang
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
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Na H, Kwon SH, Son KH, Baek Y, Kim J, Lee EK. Comparative Safety Profiles of Oncology Biosimilars: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. BioDrugs 2023; 37:205-218. [PMID: 36729329 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00576-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is crucial that the safety profiles of biosimilars are similar to those of the original biologics. A better understanding of biosimilars and their relative safety and immunogenicity profiles are required for healthcare providers to prescribe them to patients with life-threatening cancer diseases who receive chemotherapies with potentially serious adverse events (AEs). OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to collate and analyze currently available safety and immunogenicity outcomes of biosimilars used in oncology and compare their safety information with those of the original biologics. METHODS The MEDLINE and Cochrane Library databases were searched as at 28 February 2022. Four anti-cancer biosimilar molecules were considered: bevacizumab, trastuzumab, rituximab, and (peg)filgrastim. Through a systematic review, we selected the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing safety outcomes between the biosimilars and original biologics of the four molecules. As safety outcomes, various treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were collated, such as any TEAE, serious AE, and TEAE higher than grade 3. A risk ratio (RR) per category of TEAE was estimated through a meta-analysis. A network meta-analysis (NMA) was also conducted to compare the safety among the biosimilar brands for TEAEs over 25% with higher variability in addition to the serious AE cases. RESULTS Forty-nine RCTs were identified. The results from the meta-analysis showed that the safety and immunogenicity profiles of all four biosimilar molecules are comparable with that of the original biologics at the TEAE level without statistically significant differences, except for diarrhea for (peg)filgrastim. The incidence of diarrhea with (peg)filgrastim was less than that with the original biologic (RR 0.66, 95% confidence interval 0.50-0.89). The NMA results showed similar safety profiles among the biosimilar brands for all four biosimilar molecules, except for the serious adverse event of a trastuzumab biosimilar (RR 0.296, 95% credible interval 0.109-0.840). CONCLUSION The meta-analysis and NMA for all four biosimilars showed that the safety and immunogenicity profiles of biosimilar products in oncology are generally comparable with that of the original biologics at the TEAE level. However, additional evidence needs to be collected since several TEAEs of specific biosimilars were out of the equivalent range. The results of this study provide comparative safety information and a better understanding of oncology biosimilars for healthcare providers to prescribe them to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- HyeJung Na
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hong Kwon
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyung-Hwa Son
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngsuk Baek
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiye Kim
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui-Kyung Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
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Kondo Y, Tachi T, Sakakibara T, Kato J, Kato A, Mizuno T, Miyake Y, Teramachi H. Cost-effectiveness analysis of pegfilgrastim in patients with non-small cell lung cancer receiving ramucirumab plus docetaxel in Japan. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:6775-6783. [PMID: 35524869 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07102-6] [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: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The dose-limiting factor of ramucirumab plus docetaxel (RAM + DTX) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is febrile neutropenia (FN), which has a high incidence in Asians. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of pegfilgrastim (Peg-G) in patients with NSCLC receiving RAM + DTX in Japan. METHODS We simulated model patients treated with RAM + DTX in Japan and developed a decision-analytical model for patients receiving Peg-G prophylaxis or no primary prophylaxis. The expected cost, quality-adjusted life-year (QALY), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of each treatment were calculated from the perspective of a Japanese healthcare payer. The willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold was set at 45,867 United States dollars (USD) (5 million Japanese yen) per QALY gained. The probabilities, utility values, and other costs were obtained from published sources. Deterministic sensitivity analysis (DSA) and probabilistic analysis were conducted to evaluate the effect of each parameter and robustness of the base-case results. RESULTS The expected cost and QALYs were 20,275 USD and 0.701 for Peg-G prophylaxis and 17,493 USD and 0.672 for no primary prophylaxis, respectively. The ICER was calculated to be 97,519 USD per QALY gained. The results were most sensitive to FN risk with Peg-G. When FN risk with no primary prophylaxis exceeded 51% or the cost of Peg-G was less than 649 USD per injection, the ICER was below the WTP threshold. The probabilistic analysis revealed a 9.1% probability that the ICER was below the WTP threshold. CONCLUSION Peg-G is not cost-effective in patients with NSCLC receiving RAM + DTX in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Kondo
- Department of Pharmacy, Toyota Kosei Hospital, 500-1, Ibobara, Jousui-cho, Toyota, 470-0396, Japan.
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-nishi 1-25-4, Gifu, 501-1196, Japan.
| | - Tomoya Tachi
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-nishi 1-25-4, Gifu, 501-1196, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Sakakibara
- Department of Pharmacy, Toyota Kosei Hospital, 500-1, Ibobara, Jousui-cho, Toyota, 470-0396, Japan
| | - Jun Kato
- Department of Pharmacy, Toyota Kosei Hospital, 500-1, Ibobara, Jousui-cho, Toyota, 470-0396, Japan
| | - Aki Kato
- Department of Pharmacy, Toyota Kosei Hospital, 500-1, Ibobara, Jousui-cho, Toyota, 470-0396, Japan
| | - Takahito Mizuno
- Department of Pharmacy, Toyota Kosei Hospital, 500-1, Ibobara, Jousui-cho, Toyota, 470-0396, Japan
| | - Yoshio Miyake
- Department of Pharmacy, Toyota Kosei Hospital, 500-1, Ibobara, Jousui-cho, Toyota, 470-0396, Japan
| | - Hitomi Teramachi
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Daigaku-nishi 1-25-4, Gifu, 501-1196, Japan.
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Agarwala SS, Nagl U, Guo X, Bellon A, Heyn J, Dimova-Dobreva M, Shen YM, Schaffar G, Humphrey M, Mathieson N, Koptelova N, Gattu S. A review of the totality of evidence supporting the development and approval of a pegfilgrastim biosimilar (LA-EP2006). Curr Med Res Opin 2022; 38:999-1009. [PMID: 35392751 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2022.2061707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The totality-of-evidence approach requires that similarity between a proposed biosimilar and a reference biologic is demonstrated across a range of analytical, preclinical, and clinical parameters to establish biosimilarity. We describe the totality of evidence for Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim (LA-EP2006 [marketed as Ziextenzo]) that supported its regulatory approval in Europe and the United States. METHODS Analytical similarity to the reference biologic [marketed by Amgen as Neulasta] was first investigated with regard to physiochemical quality attributes such as primary structure, pegylation, higher-order structures, variants and impurities, molecular size variants, and formulation (protein content, pH, excipients, etc.). In vitro biological activity studies were performed to examine the primary mechanism of action of pegfilgrastim. Bioequivalence (clinical pharmacokinetics [PK] and pharmacodynamics [PD]) of Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim to the reference biologic was studied in healthy volunteers; efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity were assessed during confirmatory clinical efficacy studies in patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer. RESULTS No meaningful or relevant differences were identified between Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim and the reference biologic during analytical testing. Similar receptor binding and induction of cellular proliferation in vitro confirmed no functional differences between the biologics. Clinical studies in healthy adult participants demonstrated PK/PD biosimilarity and a similar safety profile between biosimilar and reference pegfilgrastim. Clinical studies in a sensitive patient population also demonstrated similar efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity between Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim and the reference biologic. CONCLUSIONS The totality of evidence confirms that Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim matches the reference biologic and will therefore provide equivalent efficacy and safety in all eligible indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjiv S Agarwala
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Cancer Expert Now, Morristown, NJ, USA
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Abstract
In 1991, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved rmetHuGCSF for human use. This recombinant methionyl human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, or filgrastim, saw use in over 1 million patients in its first 5 years on the market. In 2002, the FDA approved a version of filgrastim with covalent linkage to a monomethoxypolyethylene glycol, increasing the molecular size and half-life to replace multiple days of dosing with a single injection. These medications remained standard of care for neutropenia until the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009 created an abbreviated pathway to licensure for biologic products. Practitioners now have their pick of numerous and expanding options for pegfilgrastim biosimilars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Selby
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Dallas, Texas
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7
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Gattu S, Wang J, Bellon A, Schelcher C, Nakov R, Arani R. Meta-analysis of Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Results of 3 Phase 1 Studies with Biosimilar Pegfilgrastim. Clin Pharmacol Drug Dev 2021; 10:1130-1141. [PMID: 34350732 PMCID: PMC9290022 DOI: 10.1002/cpdd.1005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A meta‐analysis using data from 3 phase 1 studies evaluated the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of Sandoz biosimilar versus US‐ and EU‐reference pegfilgrastim. The studies included a single‐dose, double‐blind, 3‐arm, parallel‐group study (study 1); a single‐dose, double‐blind, 2‐way crossover study (study 2); and a single‐dose, double‐blind, 3‐way, 6‐sequence crossover study (study 3). Healthy male and female subjects were randomized to receive the proposed biosimilar (all studies), US‐reference biologic (studies 1 and 3), or EU‐reference biologic (studies 1, 2, and 3). For PK parameters (area under the serum concentration–time curve from time of dosing and extrapolated to infinity, area under the serum concentration–time curve from the time of dosing to the last measurable concentration, and maximum observed serum concentration) and PD parameters (absolute neutrophil count area under the effect curve from the time of dosing to the last measurable concentration and maximum measured absolute neutrophil count) geometric mean ratios and 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for treatment comparisons were calculated using the meta‐analysis approach with a fixed‐effects model. PK/PD biosimilarity was concluded if the 90%CIs were within the equivalence margins of 0.80 to 1.25. The 90%CIs for the geometric mean ratios for the PK/PD parameters were all within the equivalence margins. Safety and tolerability were similar between the proposed biosimilar and the US‐ and EU‐reference pegfilgrastim in healthy subjects. This meta‐analysis of 3 phase 1 studies supports PK/PD similarity of Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim to US‐ and EU‐reference pegfilgrastim. No clinically meaningful differences in safety or tolerability were observed.
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8
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Wang W, Li E, Campbell K, McBride A, D'Amato S. Economic Analysis on Adoption of Biosimilar Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factors in Patients With Nonmyeloid Cancer at Risk of Febrile Neutropenia Within the Oncology Care Model Framework. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e1139-e1149. [PMID: 33961490 PMCID: PMC8360455 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Value-based programs, such as the Oncology Care Model (OCM), seek to improve care for patients undergoing chemotherapy, while reducing total costs. The purpose of this study is to quantify the impact of adopting biosimilar granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSFs) for febrile neutropenia (FN) primary prophylaxis (PP) from a US practice perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ali McBride
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, AZ
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9
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Ghidini M, Indini A, Nigro O, Polito S, Rijavec E, Petrelli F, Tomasello G. Advances in the pharmacological management of neutropenia in solid tumors: the advent of biosimilars. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:857-865. [PMID: 33579166 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1873950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Severe neutropenia and infections are potentially life-threatening complications of cytotoxic antineoplastic therapies and often require hospitalization with a severe economic impact. Furthermore, hematological toxicity frequently results in chemotherapy dose reductions and delays that could interfere with disease control.Areas covered: This review provides an overview of granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSFs) including pegylated molecules, as well as more recent biosimilar G-CSFs, focusing on the toxicity, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of these compounds.Expert opinion: The administration of hematopoietic growth factors in primary and secondary prophylaxis of neutropenia is a standard supportive care measure. Recently, several biosimilars have been developed. The market for biosimilar agents seems to be increasing over time thanks to their similar effectiveness and safety, compared with their originators, but lower costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Ghidini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Indini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Olga Nigro
- Oncology Department, Medical Oncology, ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale Di Circolo E Fondazione Macchi, Varese, Italy
| | - Simona Polito
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Rijavec
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Fausto Petrelli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Oncology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tomasello
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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10
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Becker PS, Griffiths EA, Alwan LM, Bachiashvili K, Brown A, Cool R, Curtin P, Dinner S, Gojo I, Hicks A, Kallam A, Kidwai WZ, Kloth DD, Kraut EH, Landsburg D, Lyman GH, Miller R, Mukherjee S, Patel S, Perez LE, Poust A, Rampal R, Rosovsky R, Roy V, Rugo HS, Shayani S, Vasu S, Wadleigh M, Westbrook K, Westervelt P, Burns J, Keller J, Pluchino LA. NCCN Guidelines Insights: Hematopoietic Growth Factors, Version 1.2020. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2021; 18:12-22. [PMID: 31910384 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2020.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Management of febrile neutropenia (FN) is an integral part of supportive care for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The NCCN Guidelines for Hematopoietic Growth Factors provide suggestions for appropriate evaluation, risk determination, prophylaxis, and management of FN. These NCCN Guidelines are intended to guide clinicians in the appropriate use of growth factors for select patients undergoing treatment of nonmyeloid malignancies. These NCCN Guidelines Insights highlight important updates to the NCCN Guidelines regarding the incorporation of newly FDA-approved granulocyte-colony stimulating factor biosimilars for the prevention and treatment of FN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura M Alwan
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
| | | | - Anna Brown
- University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center
| | - Rita Cool
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | | | - Shira Dinner
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University
| | - Ivana Gojo
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins
| | | | | | | | | | - Eric H Kraut
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute
| | | | - Gary H Lyman
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
| | | | - Sudipto Mukherjee
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center/University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center and Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute
| | - Shiven Patel
- Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hope S Rugo
- UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | | | - Sumithira Vasu
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute
| | | | | | - Peter Westervelt
- Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine; and
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11
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Cornes P, Gascon P, Vulto AG, Aapro M. Biosimilar Pegfilgrastim: Improving Access and Optimising Practice to Supportive Care that Enables Cure. BioDrugs 2021; 34:255-263. [PMID: 32232676 PMCID: PMC7211191 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-020-00411-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a serious complication of chemotherapy, which can cause significant morbidity and mortality, result in dose delays and reductions and, ultimately, reduce cancer survival. Over the past decade, the availability of biosimilar filgrastim (short-acting granulocyte colony-stimulating factor [G-CSF]) has transformed patient access, with clear evidence of clinical benefit at preventing FN at reduced costs. In 2019, seven biosimilar pegfilgrastims (long-acting G-CSFs) were licensed, creating optimal market conditions and choice for prescribers. FN affects up to 117 per 1000 cancer patients, with mortality rates in the range of 2–21%. By reducing FN incidence and improving chemotherapy relative dose intensity (RDI), G-CSF has been associated with a 3.2% absolute survival benefit. Guidelines recommend primary prophylaxis and that filgrastim be administered for 10–14 days, while pegfilgrastim is administered once per cycle. When taken according to the guidelines, pegfilgrastim and filgrastim are equally effective. However, in routine clinical practice, filgrastim is often under-dosed (< 7 days) and has been shown to be inferior to pegfilgrastim at reducing FN incidence, hospitalisations and maintaining RDI. Once-per-cycle administration with pegfilgrastim might also aid patient adherence. The introduction of biosimilar pegfilgrastim should instigate a rethink of neutropenia management. Biosimilar pegfilgrastim offers countries using biosimilar filgrastim opportunities to improve adherence and thus cancer survival, whilst offering economic benefits for countries using reference pegfilgrastim. These benefits can be realised in full if biosimilar pegfilgrastim becomes part of routine clinical practice supported by drug and therapeutic committees implementing guidelines with multidisciplinary support in the hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pere Gascon
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arnold G Vulto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Matti Aapro
- Cancer Center, Clinique de Genolier, Vaud, Switzerland
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12
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McBride A, Wang W, Campbell K, Balu S, MacDonald K, Abraham I. Economic modeling for the US of the cost-efficiency and associated expanded treatment access of conversion to biosimilar pegfilgrastim-bmez from reference pegfilgrastim. J Med Econ 2020; 23:856-863. [PMID: 32323582 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2020.1760284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Aims: For this economic analysis, we aimed to model: (1) the cost-efficiency of prophylaxis with biosimilar pegfilgrastim-bmez for chemotherapy-induced (febrile) neutropenia (CIN/FN) compared to reference pegfilgrastim, and (2) the expanded access to CIN/FN prophylaxis and anti-neoplastic treatment that could be achieved with biosimilar cost-savings on a budget-neutral basis.Methods: In a hypothetical panel of 20,000 cancer patients receiving CIN/FN prophylaxis and using the average sales price (ASP) for the second quarter of 2019 for reference pegfilgrastim, we: conducted an ex ante simulation from the payer perspective of the cost-savings of 10-100% conversion from reference to biosimilar pegfilgrastim-bmez using drug price discounting ranging from 10-35%; estimated the budget-neutral expanded access to biosimilar pegfilgrastim-bmez enabled by these cost-savings; and estimated the budget-neutral expanded access to anti-neoplastic treatment with pembrolizumab. The simulations were replicated using fourth quarter 2019 wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for reference pegfilgrastim and biosimilar pegfilgrastim-bmez in a post facto analysis.Results: In ASP simulations, cost-savings of using pegfilgrastim-bmez over reference pegfilgrastim in a 20,000 patient panel range from $1.3 M (at 15% price discount) to $3 M (35%) at 10% conversion rate and from $6.4 M to $14.9 M, respectively, at 50% conversion. These savings could provide prophylaxis with pegfilgrastim-bmez to an additional 352 (15% discount) to 1,076 patients (35%) at 10% conversion or 1,764-5,384, respectively, at 50% conversion. Alternatively, savings could be reallocated for anti-neoplastic treatment with pembrolizumab to 3 (15% discount) to 9 (35%) patients at 10% conversion or 19-45, respectively, at 50% conversion. When utilizing WAC, cost-savings range from $4.6 M (10% conversion) to $23.1 M (50%) which could provide pegfilgrastim-bmez to an additional 1,174 (10% conversion) to 5,873 patients (50%).Conclusions: Prophylaxis with biosimilar pegfilgrastim-bmez increases the value of cancer care by generating significant cost-savings that could be reallocated to provide expanded access to CIN/FN prevention and anti-neoplastic therapy on a budget-neutral basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali McBride
- Arizona Cancer Center, Banner University Medical Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
- College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Weijia Wang
- Department of Health Economics and Outcome Research, Sandoz Inc, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Kim Campbell
- Department of Health Economics and Outcome Research, Sandoz Inc, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Sanjeev Balu
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | | | - Ivo Abraham
- College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- MATRIX45, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Center for Health Outcomes and PharmacoEconomic Research, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Family and Community Medicine College of Medicine - Tucson, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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13
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Kang KW, Lee BH, Jeon MJ, Yu ES, Kim DS, Lee SR, Sung HJ, Choi CW, Park Y, Kim BS. Efficacy and safety of two pegfilgrastim biosimilars: Tripegfilgrastim and pegteograstim. Cancer Med 2020; 9:6102-6110. [PMID: 32633471 PMCID: PMC7476830 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our aim was to compare the efficacy and safety of two recently developed biosimilars of pegfilgrastim, a pegylated form of the recombinant human granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF) analog filgrastim with those of the reference pegfilgrastim. We retrospectively analyzed data from patients diagnosed with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) who were treated with first‐line R‐CHOP chemotherapy and received pegylated G‐CSF for primary prophylaxis. The following pegylated G‐CSFs were analyzed in this study: reference pegfilgrastim (Neulasta®) and two of its biosimilars (tripegfilgrastim; Dulastin® and pegteograstim; Neulapeg®). In total, 296 patients were enrolled. The number of patients with at least one episode of neutropenia during R‐CHOP chemotherapy was the lowest in the reference cohort (pegfilgrastim: 127 of 193 patients, 65.8%; tripegfilgrastim: 64 of 69 patients, 92.8%; pegteograstim: 28 of 34 patients, 82.4%, P < .001). The number of patients with at least one episode of febrile neutropenia was also lowest in the reference cohort (pegfilgrastim: 67 of 193 patients, 34.7%; tripegfilgrastim: 38 of 69 patients, 55.1%; pegteograstim: 16 of 34 patients, 47.1%, P = .009). There were no differences in the duration of neutropenia and febrile neutropenia or treatment outcomes (rate of complete response or relapse and survival). There were no reports of grade 3 or higher adverse events requiring discontinuation of prophylactic pegylated G‐CSF in any group. The safety of the pegfilgrastim biosimilars for prophylactic purposes was comparable to that of the reference pegfilgrastim; however, in terms of their efficacy, the incidence of neutropenia and febrile neutropenia tended to be higher than that when using pegfilgrastim. The clinical relevance of these results in the biosimilar cohorts should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Won Kang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Byung-Hyun Lee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min Ji Jeon
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eun Sang Yu
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dae Sik Kim
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Se Ryeon Lee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hwa Jung Sung
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chul Won Choi
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yong Park
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Byung Soo Kim
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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PF-06881894, a Proposed Biosimilar to Pegfilgrastim, Versus US-Licensed and EU-Approved Pegfilgrastim Reference Products (Neulasta ®): Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics, Immunogenicity, and Safety of Single or Multiple Subcutaneous Doses in Healthy Volunteers. Adv Ther 2020; 37:3370-3391. [PMID: 32524499 PMCID: PMC7467414 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01387-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Introduction PF-06881894 is a proposed biosimilar to pegfilgrastim
(Neulasta®). This study evaluated the
pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic (PD/PK) equivalence, immunogenicity, and safety of
PF-06881894 vs pegfilgrastim reference products (US- and
EU-Neulasta®) in healthy volunteers. Methods A phase 1, open-label, randomized, crossover study was conducted to
assess the pharmacologic equivalence and safety of a single 6-mg dose of PF-06881894,
pegfilgrastim-US, and pegfilgrastim-EU. The primary PD endpoints were area under the
effect-versus-time curve for absolute neutrophil count (ANC) from dose administration
to 288 h postdose, and maximum observed ANC value among subjects confirmed negative
for anti-pegfilgrastim antibodies. Primary PK variables included area under the serum
pegfilgrastim-versus-time curve from the time of dose administration to time infinity
and maximum observed serum pegfilgrastim concentration. A second phase 1, open-label,
randomized (1:1), parallel-group, non-inferiority study was conducted to assess the
immunogenicity and safety of multiple 6-mg doses of PF-06881894 versus
pegfilgrastim-US. The primary endpoint for the immunogenicity study was the
proportion of subjects with both negative baseline and confirmed positive postdose
anti-pegfilgrastim antibodies at any time during the study. Results Across the single- and multiple-dose studies (N = 153 and N = 420 treated
subjects, respectively), demographics for age (18–65 years), male gender (n = 264/573), and white race (n = 423/573) were similar. Three-way PD/PK equivalence of PF-06881894,
pegfilgrastim-US, and pegfilgrastim-EU was demonstrated with the primary PD endpoints
and primary PK variables being completely contained within the predefined 90%
confidence interval acceptance limits (80–125%). The non-inferiority of PF-06881894
versus pegfilgrastim-US in terms of immunogenicity was established according to the
prespecified non-inferiority margin (≤10%). Overall, there were no clinically
meaningful differences in safety profiles among or between study groups. Conclusions Single-dose PF-06881894 demonstrated PD/PK equivalence and comparable
safety with US- and EU-pegfilgrastim reference products. Multiple-dose PF-06881894
demonstrated immunogenicity non-inferiority to pegfilgrastim-US with comparable
safety. Both studies contributed to the totality of evidence supporting
biosimilarity. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT02629289 (C1221001); NCT03273842
(C1221005). Electronic Supplementary Material The online version of this article (10.1007/s12325-020-01387-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized
users.
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Kitagawa Y, Osumi H, Shinozaki E, Ota Y, Nakayama I, Suzuki T, Wakatsuki T, Ogura M, Ooki A, Takahari D, Suenaga M, Chin K, Yamaguchi K. Clinical utility of polyethylene glycol conjugated granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (PEG-G-CSF) for preventing severe neutropenia in metastatic colorectal cancer patients treated with FOLFOXIRI plus bevacizumab: a single-center retrospective study. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:358. [PMID: 32345249 PMCID: PMC7189469 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-06864-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of polyethylene glycol conjugated granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (PEG-G-CSF) for preventing neutropenia in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients that received fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan (FOLFOXIRI) plus bevacizumab (Bev) in clinical practice. Methods We retrospectively analyzed mCRC patients who received FOLFOXIRI plus Bev between December 2015 and December 2017. We evaluated the efficacy of PEG-G-CSF as preventing or treating grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, the overall response rate (ORR) according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and adverse events of FOLFOXIRI plus Bev based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0. Results A total of 26 patients (median age 53.5 years) were included. The ORR rate was 65.3%, the median PFS was 9.6 months (7.2–16.9), and the median OS was 24.2 months (13.6–NA). Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia occurred in 53.8% of the patients, and febrile neutropenia occurred in 7.7%. PEG-G-CSF was given to 77.0% of the patients, including prophylactically (n = 9) and after the development of grade 3 or 4 neutropenia (n = 11). No patients experienced grade 3 or 4 neutropenia after the administration of PEG-G-CSF. In seven of the nine patients who received PEG-G-CSF prophylactically (77.8%), no dose adjustment was required. Conclusions PEG-G-CSF is useful in preventing severe neutropenia in mCRC patients treated with FOLFOXIRI plus Bev.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Kitagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Hiroki Osumi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Eiji Shinozaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan.
| | - Yumiko Ota
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Izuma Nakayama
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Takeshi Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Takeru Wakatsuki
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Mariko Ogura
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Akira Ooki
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Daisuke Takahari
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Mitsukuni Suenaga
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Keisho Chin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Kensei Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
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16
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Bellon A, Wang J, Skerjanec A, Velinova M, Dickerson D, Sabet A, Ngo L, O'Reilly T, Tomek C, Schussler S, Schier-Mumzhiu S, Gattu S, Koch SD, Schelcher C, Dobreva M, Boldea A, Nakov R, Otto GP. A large multicentre, randomized, double-blind, cross-over study in healthy volunteers to compare pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety of a pegfilgrastim biosimilar with its US- and EU-reference biologics. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2020; 86:1139-1149. [PMID: 32022282 PMCID: PMC7256126 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14226] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Recombinant PEGylated human granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (pegfilgrastim) is indicated for the reduction of chemotherapy‐induced neutropenia and prevention of febrile neutropenia. Biosimilar pegfilgrastim is expected to reduce the financial burden of this complication of chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to demonstrate biosimilarity between Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim and its US‐ and EU‐approved reference biologics. Methods Phase I, randomized, double‐blind, single‐dose, 3‐period, 6‐sequence cross‐over, multicentre study to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety and immunogenicity of Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim with US‐ and EU‐references in healthy adults. Results Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic similarity was demonstrated between the 3 biologics, as the 90% confidence interval for all primary pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic endpoint comparisons were contained within the predefined similarity margins of 0.80–1.25. Safety, immunogenicity and tolerability were also similar. Conclusions Sandoz biosimilar pegfilgrastim demonstrated pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic similarity to both US‐ and EU‐reference biologics. No meaningful differences in safety, local tolerability and immunogenicity were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anca Boldea
- Sandoz Pharma Services Romania SRL, Novartis, Bucharest, Romania
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Efficacy and Safety of Supportive Care Biosimilars Among Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. BioDrugs 2019; 33:373-389. [PMID: 31161461 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-019-00356-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biologics are widely used to manage the side effects of cancer treatment (e.g., epoetin alfa is used to treat chemotherapy-induced anemia [CIA] and granulocyte colony-stimulating factors [G-CSFs] are used to treat chemotherapy-induced neutropenia [CIN]). As several patents for biologics used in cancer treatment have expired, a number of companies have developed supportive care biosimilars (e.g., epoetin alfa biosimilar, filgrastim biosimilar, pegfilgrastim biosimilar). OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to synthesize current evidence on the efficacy and safety of supportive care biosimilars compared with their reference biologics in oncology. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane library, ClinicalTrials.gov, ISI Web of Science and several Chinese databases from their inception dates to December 31, 2018 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or comparative observational studies that compared the efficacy and safety of supportive care biosimilars and their reference biologics in oncology. We pooled results separately for RCTs and observational studies, as such studies involve different patient populations and are designed differently. We pooled binary outcomes using risk ratios (RR) with confidence intervals (CIs) and continuous outcomes using weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% CIs, then conducted subgroup and sensitivity analyses. We used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to rate the quality of evidence. RESULTS We identified 28 studies that compared biosimilars of G-CSF or epoetin alfa: one RCT and five cohort studies (total N = 2816) of epoetin alfa biosimilars, and 13 RCTs and 9 cohort studies (total N = 23,043) of G-CSF biosimilars [corrected]. Despite involving different populations, RCTs and observational studies comparing biosimilars and reference biologics indicated similar efficacy and safety results. Overall, there was no statistically significant difference in any efficacy or safety outcomes between any biosimilars and their corresponding original biologics (all p > 0.05). The quality of GRADE evidence of efficacy and safety outcomes was moderate or low. Findings were robust for all prespecified subgroup and sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSION Existing evidence suggests highly comparable efficacy and safety profiles for supportive care biosimilars and their reference biologics in oncology.
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18
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Efficacy and tolerability of granulocyte colony-stimulating factors in cancer patients after chemotherapy: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15374. [PMID: 31653961 PMCID: PMC6814815 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51982-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The optimum granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) treatment for cancer patients after being treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy remains unknown. Therefore, a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis were performed to assess the efficacy and tolerability of 11 G-CSF drugs on patients after chemotherapy. A total of 73 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) containing 15,124 cancer patients were included for the final network meta-analysis. Compared with pegfilgrastim, there were a higher risk with filgrastim for incidence of febrile neutropenia (FN) (OR [95% CI]: 1.63 [1.07, 2.46]), and a higher risk with short-acting G-CSF (S-G-CSF) biosimilar and lenograstim for incidence of bone pain (BP) (OR [95% CI]: 6.45 [1.10, 65.73], 5.12 [1.14, 26.12], respectively). Mecapegfilgrastim, lipegfilgrastim and balugrastim were best G-CSF drugs in reducing FN (cumulative probabilities: 58%, 15%, 11%, respectively). S-G-CSF biosimilar, empegfilgrastim, and long-acting G-CSF (L-G-CSF) biosimilar were best G-CSF drugs in reducing severe neutropenia (SN) (cumulative probabilities: 21%, 20%, 15%, respectively). Mecapegfilgrastim, balugrastim, lipegfilgrastim and L-G-CSF biosimilar were best G-CSF drugs in reducing BP (cumulative probabilities: 20%, 14%, 8%, 8%, respectively). Mecapegfilgrastim, lipegfilgrastim and balugrastim might be the most appreciate G-CSF drugs with both good efficacy and tolerability when treating cancer patients after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
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19
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Krendyukov A, Schiestl M. Biosimilars in oncology: A decade of experience with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and its implications for monoclonal antibodies. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2019:102785. [PMID: 31405784 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2019.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Biosimilars offer the potential for improved sustainability of cancer care. In oncology, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and erythropoiesis-stimulating agent biosimilars have been available for almost a decade, with biosimilars of monoclonal antibodies a more recent development. Sandoz biosimilar filgrastim was approved based on Phase III confirmatory studies conducted in patients with breast cancer experiencing chemotherapy-induced neutropenia, with other indications granted based on extrapolation. Despite the fact that extrapolation is a well-established scientific principle in regulation of biological medicines, it is a commonly misunderstood part of the biosimilar concept. Broad experience from almost a decade of use of Sandoz biosimilar filgrastim includes >21 million patient-days exposure and >9 years of real-world clinical evidence, indicates extrapolation successfully at work. Together, this can help reassure oncologists that extrapolation is based on sound scientific principles. Efforts to improve understanding of extrapolation are critical to ensure the acceptance of future oncology biosimilar monoclonal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andriy Krendyukov
- Former employee of HEXAL AG, Industriestr. 25, D-83607, Holzkirchen, Germany.
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Zhu P, Hsu CH, Liao J, Xu S, Zhang L, Zhou H. Trial Design and Statistical Considerations on the Assessment of Pharmacodynamic Similarity. AAPS JOURNAL 2019; 21:47. [PMID: 30945035 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-019-0321-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacodynamics (PD) similarity is an important component to support the claim of similarity between two drugs or devices. This article investigates the trial design and statistical considerations in the equivalence test of PD endpoints. Using bone resorption marker CTX as a case study, the relationship between the PD readouts and drug potency was explored to evaluate the sensitivity of the PD endpoint and guide equivalence margin selection. For PD data that have high baseline variability, one conventional similarity assessment method was to apply baseline-normalization followed by the standard bioequivalence (BE) test (Lancet Haematol. 4:e350-61, 2017, Ann Rheum Dis. 2017). This study showcased the drawbacks of the conventional method for PD data that were close to inhibition saturation, as the baseline-normalization significantly skewed the distribution of the PD data toward non-log-normal. In such cases, the standard BE test can produce an inflated type I error. Alternatively, ANCOVA, when applied to the un-normalized PD data with the baseline as a covariate, produced a satisfactory type I error with sufficient power. Therefore, ANCOVA was recommended for equivalence test of PD markers that has a saturated inhibition profile and high variability at baseline. Moreover, the relationship between PD readouts and drug potency was used to explore the sensitivity of the PD endpoint and it could help justify the equivalence margins, since the standard 80% to 125% BE margin often does not apply to PD. Finally, a decision tree was proposed to help guide the design of the PD equivalence study in the choice of PD endpoints and statistical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peijuan Zhu
- Janssen Research and Development Inc, Raritan, NJ, USA.
| | - Chyi-Hung Hsu
- Janssen Research and Development Inc, Raritan, NJ, USA
| | | | - Steven Xu
- Janssen Research and Development Inc, Raritan, NJ, USA
| | - Liping Zhang
- Janssen Research and Development Inc, Raritan, NJ, USA
| | - Honghui Zhou
- Janssen Research & Development Inc, Spring House, PA, USA
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21
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Harbeck N, Wang J, Otto GP, Gattu S, Krendyukov A. Safety analysis of proposed pegfilgrastim biosimilar in Phase I and Phase III studies. Future Oncol 2019; 15:1313-1322. [DOI: 10.2217/fon-2018-0878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This analysis compares safety data for Sandoz proposed biosimilar (LA-EP2006) and reference pegfilgrastim from a Phase I pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic study in healthy volunteers (HVs) and two Phase III confirmatory studies in patients with breast cancer (BC; total n = 808). Patients & methods: Baseline characteristics were summarized, and event rates of bone pain and headache calculated. Results: HVs in the Phase I pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic study were generally younger, with lower mean body mass index, versus BC patients in PROTECT-1/-2. Bone pain was the most frequent adverse event with similar incidences with reference versus proposed biosimilar in all studies. Conclusion: No differences in adverse events were found between Sandoz proposed biosimilar and reference pegfilgrastim, notwithstanding some differences between HVs and BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Harbeck
- Breast Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Munich (LMU), Munich 81377, Germany
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22
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Hoy SM. LA-EP2006: A Pegfilgrastim Biosimilar. BioDrugs 2019; 33:229-232. [DOI: 10.1007/s40259-019-00348-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Waller CF, Ranganna GM, Pennella EJ, Blakeley C, Bronchud MH, Mattano LA, Berzoy O, Voitko N, Shparyk Y, Lytvyn I, Rusyn A, Popov V, Láng I, Beckmann K, Sharma R, Baczkowski M, Kothekar M, Barve A. Randomized phase 3 efficacy and safety trial of proposed pegfilgrastim biosimilar MYL-1401H in the prophylactic treatment of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. Ann Hematol 2019; 98:1217-1224. [PMID: 30824956 PMCID: PMC6469669 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-019-03639-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pegfilgrastim is indicated for reducing the duration of neutropenia and incidence of febrile neutropenia in patients receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy. Here, safety and efficacy of MYL-1401H, a proposed pegfilgrastim biosimilar, were investigated as prophylaxis for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. This was a phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group equivalence trial of MYL-1401H vs European Union–sourced reference pegfilgrastim. Patients with newly diagnosed stage II/III breast cancer eligible to receive (neo) adjuvant chemotherapy with docetaxel/doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide every 3 weeks for 6 cycles were enrolled and randomized 2:1 to 6 mg of MYL-1401H or reference pegfilgrastim 24 h (+ 2-h window after the first 24 h) after the end of chemotherapy. The primary efficacy endpoint was the duration of severe neutropenia in cycle 1 (i.e., days with absolute neutrophil count (ANC) < 0.5 × 109/L). Mean (standard deviation (SD)) duration of severe neutropenia in MYL-1401H and reference pegfilgrastim groups was 1.2 days (0.93) and 1.2 days (1.10), respectively. The 95% CI for least squares mean difference (− 0.285, 0.298) was within the predefined equivalence range of ± 1 day. Secondary endpoints, including grade ≥ 3 neutropenia (frequency, 91% and 82% for MYL-1401H and reference pegfilgrastim, respectively), time to ANC nadir (mean (SD), 6.2 (0.98) and 6.3 (1.57) days), and duration of post-nadir recovery (mean (SD), 1.9 (0.85) and 1.7 (0.91) days) were comparable. Overall safety profiles of the study drugs were comparable. MYL-1401H demonstrated equivalent efficacy and similar safety to reference pegfilgrastim and may be an equivalent option for reducing incidence of neutropenia. (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02467868; EudraCT, 2014-002324-27).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelius F Waller
- Department of Haematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Centre Freiburg and Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Street 55, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Gopinath M Ranganna
- Global Clinical Research & Development, Mylan, Prestige Tech Park Platina-3, 7th to 12th Floor, Kadubesanahalli, Bangalore, 560103, India
| | - Eduardo J Pennella
- Global Clinical Research, Mylan, 1000 Mylan Boulevard, Canonsburg, PA, 15317, USA
| | - Christopher Blakeley
- Medical and Scientific Affairs, Worldwide Clinical Trials, 172 Tottenham Court Road, Fitzrovia, London, W1T 7DL, UK
| | - Miguel H Bronchud
- GenesisCare Corachan Institute of Oncology, Buïgas 19, 08017, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Leonard A Mattano
- HARP Pharma Consulting, LLC, 184 Masons Island Road, Mystic, CT, 06355, USA
| | - Oleksandr Berzoy
- Mammalogy Center, Odessa Regional Hospital, Akademika Zabolotnogo Str. 26, Odessa, 65025, Ukraine
| | - Nataliia Voitko
- Chemotherapy II, Kyiv City Clinical Oncological Centre, Kyiv, Street, Verkhovyna, 69, Kiev, 03115, Ukraine
| | - Yaroslav Shparyk
- Department of Chemotherapy, Lviv State Regional Treatment and Diagnostics Oncology Center, Lviv Street, Pekarskaya, 69, Lviv, 79010, Ukraine
| | - Iryna Lytvyn
- Department of Chemotherapy, Dnipropetrovsk Regional Clinical Oncology Center, Kosmicheskaja Street, 21, Dnepropetrovsk, 49100, Ukraine
| | - Andriy Rusyn
- Department of Chemotherapy, Transkarpathian Regional University Oncology Clinic, Narodna Square, 3, Uzhgorod, 88000, Ukraine
| | - Vasil Popov
- Department of Medical Oncology and Palliative Care, SHATOD Dr. Marko Аntonov Markov, Varna EOOD, SHOP "Tsar Osvoboditel" Boulevard 100000, 9000, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - István Láng
- Department of Medical Oncology and Clinical Pharmacology B, National Institute of Oncology Országos Onkológiai Intézet, Budapest Ráth György u. 7-9, Budapest, 1122, Hungary
| | - Katrin Beckmann
- Global Clinical Operations, Mylan Healthcare GmbH, Freundallee 9A, 30173, Hannover, Germany
| | - Rajiv Sharma
- Global Product Safety and Risk Management, Mylan, Building 4 Trident Place, Mosquito Way, Hatfield, AL10 9UL, UK
| | - Mark Baczkowski
- Product Safety and Risk Management, Mylan, 781 Chestnut Ridge Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Mudgal Kothekar
- Clinical Development, Biocon Research Ltd, 131, Jigani Road, RK Twp, Bommasandra Industrial Area, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560099, India
| | - Abhijit Barve
- Global Clinical Research, Mylan, 1000 Mylan Boulevard, Canonsburg, PA, 15317, USA
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Kahan Z, Grecea D, Smakal M, Tjulandin S, Bondarenko I, Perjesi L, Illes A, Horvat-Karajz K, Aradi I. Efficacy and safety of RGB-02, a pegfilgrastim biosimilar to prevent chemotherapy-induced neutropenia: results of a randomized, double-blind phase III clinical study vs. reference pegfilgrastim in patients with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:122. [PMID: 30727980 PMCID: PMC6364429 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5329-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Treatment with recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) is accepted standard for prevention of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. RGB-02 (Gedeon Richter) is a proposed biosimilar to pegylated G-CSF (Neulasta®, Amgen) with sustained release properties. This is a randomized, comparative, double-blind, multicenter study to evaluate efficacy and safety of RGB-02 in breast cancer patients receiving cytotoxic regimen. Methods Two hundred thirty-nine women presenting with breast cancer were randomized to RGB-02 (n = 121) and the reference product (n = 118). All patients received up to 6 cycles of docetaxel/doxorubicin chemotherapy combination and a once-per-cycle injection of a fixed 6 mg dose of pegfilgrastim. Primary endpoint was the duration of severe neutropenia (ANC < 0.5 × 109/L) in Cycle 1 (2-sided CI 95%). Secondary endpoints included incidence and duration of severe neutropenia (in cycles 2–4), incidence of febrile neutropenia, time to ANC recovery, depth of ANC nadir, and safety outcomes. Results The mean duration of severe neutropenia in Cycle 1 was 1.7 (RGB-02) and 1.6 days (reference), with a difference (LS Mean) of 0.1 days (95% CI -0.2, 0.4). Equivalence could be established as the CI for the difference in LS Mean lay entirely within the pre-defined range of ±1 day. This positive result was supported by the analysis of secondary endpoints, which also revealed no clinical meaningful differences. Safety profiles were comparable between groups. No neutralizing antibodies against pegfilgrastim were identified. Conclusions Treatment equivalence in reducing the duration of chemotherapy induced neutropenia between RGB-02 and Neulasta® could be demonstrated. Similar efficacy and safety profiles of the once-per-cycle administration of RGB-02 and the pegfilgrastim reference were demonstrated. Trial registration The trial was registered prospectively, prior to study initiation. EudraCT number (2013–003166-14). The date of registration was 12 July, 2013. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-019-5329-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsuzsanna Kahan
- Department of Oncotherapy, University of Szeged, Korányi Fasor 12, Szeged, 6720, Hungary
| | - Daniela Grecea
- Institutul Oncologic Prof. Dr. I. Chiricuta, Republicii Bulevardul 34-36, 400015, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Martin Smakal
- Nemocnice Horovice, K nemocnici 1106, 268 01, Horovice, Czech Republic
| | - Sergei Tjulandin
- Russian Cancer Research Center of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Kashirskoye Shosse 24, Moscow, Russia, 115478
| | - Igor Bondarenko
- Department of Oncology and Medical Radiology, Dnipropetrovsk Medical Academy, Vernadsky str. 9, Dnipropetrovsk, 49044, Ukraine
| | - Luca Perjesi
- Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary; Gyömröi út 19-21, Budapest, 1103, Hungary
| | - Andras Illes
- Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary; Gyömröi út 19-21, Budapest, 1103, Hungary.
| | - Karoly Horvat-Karajz
- Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary; Gyömröi út 19-21, Budapest, 1103, Hungary
| | - Ildiko Aradi
- Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary; Gyömröi út 19-21, Budapest, 1103, Hungary
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Nakov R, Gattu S, Wang J, Velinova M, Schaffar G, Skerjanec A. Proposed biosimilar pegfilgrastim shows similarity in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to reference pegfilgrastim in healthy subjects. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2018; 84:2790-2801. [PMID: 30079636 PMCID: PMC6256001 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.13731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to demonstrate that the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) profile of Sandoz proposed biosimilar pegfilgrastim (LA-EP2006) matches reference pegfilgrastim (Neulasta® ) in healthy subjects. Safety and immunogenicity were also assessed. METHODS The phase I, randomized, double-blind, two-period crossover study consisted of two treatment periods separated by an 8-week washout period. Healthy subjects aged 18-45 were randomized to either proposed biosimilar/reference pegfilgrastim or reference pegfilgrastim/proposed biosimilar. Proposed biosimilar and reference pegfilgrastim were administered on Day 1 of each treatment period (single 6 mg subcutaneous injection). Blood samples for PK/PD analysis were taken predose and ≤336 h postdose. PK/PD similarity was claimed if 90% (PK) and 95% (PD) confidence intervals (CI) for geometric mean ratios of the area under the serum concentration-time curve (AUC) from time of dosing and extrapolated to infinity (AUC0-inf ), or to the last measurable concentration (AUC0-last ), maximum observed serum concentration (Cmax ), absolute neutrophil count (ANC) area under the effect curve from the time of dosing to the last measurable concentration (AUEC0-last ) and ANC maximum effect attributable to the therapy under investigation (Emax ) were completely contained within the predefined margin (0.8 to 1.25). RESULTS Overall, 169 subjects completed the study. PK/PD similarity was demonstrated; 90% CIs of geometric mean ratio of proposed biosimilar/reference for PK: AUC0-inf (1.0559-1.2244), AUC0-last (1.0607-1.2328), Cmax (1.0312-1.1909) and 95% CIs for PD (ANC): AUEC0-last (0.9948-1.0366), Emax (0.9737-1.0169) were completely contained within predefined margin of 0.8 to 1.25. Both biologics had similar safety profiles, were well tolerated and had low incidence of anti-drug antibodies. No neutralizing or clinically relevant antibodies were detected. CONCLUSIONS PK/PD similarity of Sandoz proposed biosimilar pegfilgrastim and reference pegfilgrastim was confirmed. No clinically meaningful differences in safety, tolerability and immunogenicity were observed in healthy subjects.
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Blackwell K, Gascon P, Jones CM, Nixon A, Krendyukov A, Nakov R, Li Y, Harbeck N. Pooled analysis of two randomized, double-blind trials comparing proposed biosimilar LA-EP2006 with reference pegfilgrastim in breast cancer. Ann Oncol 2018. [PMID: 28637287 PMCID: PMC5834021 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdx303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Following the functional and physicochemical characterization of a proposed biosimilar, comparative clinical studies help to confirm biosimilarity by demonstrating similar safety and efficacy to the reference product in a sensitive patient population. Patients and methods LA-EP2006 is a proposed biosimilar that has been developed for pegfilgrastim, a long-acting form of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for the prevention of neutropenia. The current analysis reports data pooled from two independent, multinational, prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blind phase III studies of similar design comparing the safety and efficacy of reference pegfilgrastim with LA-EP2006 in patients with breast cancer receiving myelotoxic (neo)adjuvant TAC (docetaxel, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide) chemotherapy and requiring granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. Results A total of 624 patients were randomized in the PROTECT-1 and PROTECT-2 studies (NCT01735175; NCT01516736) (LA-EP2006: n = 314; reference: n = 310). Baseline characteristics of patients were well balanced across treatment groups. The primary end point, mean duration of severe neutropenia in the first chemotherapy cycle was similar in both the LA-EP2006 and reference groups (1.05 ± 1.055 days versus 1.01 ± 0.958 days), with a treatment difference of - 0.04 days [95% confidence interval (CI): -0.19 to 0.11] that met the equivalence criteria (the 95% CI were within the defined margin of ±1 day). Secondary end points, such as the nadir of absolute neutrophil count and the incidence of febrile neutropenia, were also similar between LA-EP2006 and reference pegfilgrastim. The safety and tolerability profile of LA-EP2006 was similar to that observed with reference pegfilgrastim, and there were no reports of neutralizing antibodies. Conclusions This pooled analysis confirms, as a part of totality of evidence approach, that the proposed biosimilar pegfilgrastim LA-EP2006 has a comparable efficacy and safety profile to reference pegfilgrastim in patients with breast cancer receiving TAC chemotherapy. Clinical trial numbers NCT01735175 and NCT01516736.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Blackwell
- Department of Oncology, Duke University, DUMC, Durham, USA
| | - P Gascon
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital General Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - A Nixon
- Fowler Family Center for Cancer Care, Jonesboro, USA
| | | | - R Nakov
- Hexal AG, Holzkirchen/Oberhaching, Germany
| | - Y Li
- Sandoz Inc., Princeton, USA
| | - N Harbeck
- Breast Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and CCCLMU, University of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
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27
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A pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics equivalence trial of the proposed pegfilgrastim biosimilar, MYL-1401H, versus reference pegfilgrastim. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2018; 144:1087-1095. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-018-2643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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28
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Harbeck N, Gascón P, Krendyukov A, Hoebel N, Gattu S, Blackwell K. Safety Profile of Biosimilar Filgrastim (Zarzio/Zarxio): A Combined Analysis of Phase III Studies. Oncologist 2018; 23:403-409. [PMID: 29317553 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2017-0348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evaluation of adverse events (AEs) in pivotal registration trials and ongoing postmarketing surveillance is important for all biologics, including biosimilars. A combined analysis of two pivotal registration studies was performed to strengthen evidence on safety for biosimilar filgrastim EP2006 in patients with breast cancer receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy, a sensitive clinical setting to confirm biosimilarity of filgrastim. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data were combined from two phase III studies of biosimilar filgrastim EP2006. The U.S. registration study was a randomized, double-blind comparison of biosimilar and reference filgrastim in women aged ≥18 years with breast cancer, receiving (neo)adjuvant treatment with TAC (docetaxel + doxorubicin + cyclophosphamide). The European Union registration study was a single-arm, open-label study of biosimilar filgrastim in women aged ≥18 years with breast cancer receiving doxorubicin + docetaxel. Patients received filgrastim as a subcutaneous injection on day 2 of each cycle for <14 days or until the absolute neutrophil count reached 10 × 109/L after the expected nadir. Results were combined for cycles 1-4. RESULTS A total of 277 patients received biosimilar filgrastim EP2006. Patients had a mean (± standard deviation) age of 51.1 (± 10.8) years, and 78.7% of patients had stage II or III breast cancer. A total of 46 (20.6%) patients receiving biosimilar filgrastim had AEs considered filgrastim-related. The most frequently reported filgrastim-related AEs were musculoskeletal or connective tissue disorders (15.2%), including bone pain (7.2%). One death (due to pulmonary embolism) occurred of a patient receiving biosimilar filgrastim (not considered filgrastim-related). No patient developed antidrug antibodies during the study. CONCLUSION Biosimilar filgrastim has a safety profile consistent with previous filgrastim studies and is effective in preventing febrile neutropenia in patients with breast cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The biosimilar filgrastim EP2006 (Zarzio, Zarxio, biosimilar filgrastim-sndz) has been approved in Europe since 2009 and in the U.S. since 2015. This combined analysis of two phase III studies provides additional clinical evidence that the biosimilar filgrastim EP2006 has a safety profile consistent with previous studies of reference filgrastim and supports large postmarketing studies of EP2006 in Europe. Strengthening the evidence for biosimilar filgrastim can help improve acceptance of biosimilars and increase patient access to biologics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Harbeck
- Brustzentrum der Universität München (LMU), Munich, Germany
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29
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Krendyukov A, Schiestl M, Höbel N, Aapro M. Clinical equivalence with G-CSF biosimilars: methodologic approach in a (neo)adjuvant setting in non-metastatic breast cancer. Support Care Cancer 2018; 26:33-40. [PMID: 28929372 PMCID: PMC6694091 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-3861-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Biosimilars are biological medicines that have been shown to be similar to a reference biological medicine that has already been approved for use. Development of biosimilars is based on a "totality of evidence" approach that involves a series of steps by which biosimilars must demonstrate similarity to a reference product in all aspects of the drug and eliminate any remaining uncertainties. Clinical studies are then considered confirmatory and are performed to show that there are no clinically meaningful differences compared with the reference product in a sensitive patient population. The recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) biosimilar EP2006/Zarxio® (filgrastim-sdnz) became the first FDA-approved biosimilar in 2015. This review evaluates how clinical equivalence can be demonstrated with G-CSF biosimilars through the identification of "sensitive" study populations and endpoints. Patients with non-metastatic breast cancer treated in the (neo)adjuvant setting represent a potentially homogenous population, making this a suitable sensitive indication for assessing filgrastim and pegfilgrastim biosimilars compared with reference products. This review includes clinical trials of G-CSF biosimilars in breast cancer, focusing on key aspects of the trials that were necessary to accurately demonstrate clinical equivalence and enable extrapolation to relevant indications, based on guidelines and biostatistical principles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - N Höbel
- Hexal AG, Holzkirchen, Germany
| | - M Aapro
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Oncology, Clinique de Genolier, Genolier, Switzerland.
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Comparing granulocyte colony–stimulating factor filgrastim and pegfilgrastim to its biosimilars in terms of efficacy and safety: A meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials in breast cancer patients. Eur J Cancer 2018; 89:49-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2017.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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31
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Harbeck N, Gascon P, Jones CM, Nixon A, Krendyukov A, Nakov R, Li Y, Blackwell K. Proposed biosimilar pegfilgrastim (LA-EP2006) compared with reference pegfilgrastim in Asian patients with breast cancer: an exploratory comparison from two Phase III trials. Future Oncol 2017; 13:1385-1393. [DOI: 10.2217/fon-2017-0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: This is a pooled subgroup analysis of Asian patients enrolled in two Phase III confirmatory studies comparing proposed biosimilar LA-EP2006 with reference pegfilgrastim in women receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer. Patients & methods: Women were randomized to LA-EP2006 (n = 90) or reference (n = 84) pegfilgrastim (Neulasta®, Amgen, Inc., CA, USA) for ≤6 cycles of TAC chemotherapy. Primary end point was duration of severe neutropenia during Cycle 1 (number of consecutive days with absolute neutrophil count <0.5 × 109/l) with equivalence confirmed if 95% CIs were within a ±1-day margin. Results: Mean duration of severe neutropenia (days) in Cycle 1 was 1.36 ± 0.98 (LA-EP2006) versus 1.35 ± 1.06 (reference) (difference 0.01 days; 95% CI: -0.30–0.32, indicating equivalence). Conclusion: LA-EP2006 showed similar clinical efficacy and safety compared with reference pegfilgrastim.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Harbeck
- Brustzentrum, Frauenklinik & CCCLMU der Universität München (LMU), Munich, 81337, Germany
| | - Pere Gascon
- Servicio de Oncologia Médica, Fundacio Clinic, Barcelona, 08036, Spain
| | | | - Allen Nixon
- Fowler Family Center for Cancer Care, Jonesboro, AR, 72401, USA
| | | | | | - Yuhan Li
- Sandoz Inc, Princeton, NJ, 08540, USA
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