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Sakurai K, Saito K, Hatta S, Katsuoka Y, Meguro K, Yokoyama H, Izumi T. Successful haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria with severe pancytopenia developed after long-term aplastic anemia treatment. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e8832. [PMID: 38681032 PMCID: PMC11053247 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.8832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) with posttransplant cyclophosphamide is an alternative treatment for aplastic anemia-paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) syndrome with poor prognostic factors. Ravulizumab treatment for PNH before HSCT might have a beneficial effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Sakurai
- Department of HematologyNational Hospital Organization Sendai Medical CenterSendaiJapan
- Department of HematologyTohoku University HospitalSendaiJapan
| | - Kei Saito
- Department of HematologyNational Hospital Organization Sendai Medical CenterSendaiJapan
| | - Shunsuke Hatta
- Department of HematologyNational Hospital Organization Sendai Medical CenterSendaiJapan
| | - Yuna Katsuoka
- Department of HematologyNational Hospital Organization Sendai Medical CenterSendaiJapan
| | - Kuniaki Meguro
- Department of HematologyNational Hospital Organization Sendai Medical CenterSendaiJapan
| | - Hisayuki Yokoyama
- Department of HematologyNational Hospital Organization Sendai Medical CenterSendaiJapan
- Department of HematologyTohoku University HospitalSendaiJapan
| | - Toru Izumi
- Department of HematologyNational Hospital Organization Sendai Medical CenterSendaiJapan
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Howard JF, Vu T, Mantegazza R, Kushlaf H, Suzuki S, Wiendl H, Beasley KN, Liao S, Meisel A. Efficacy of ravulizumab in patients with generalized myasthenia gravis by time from diagnosis: A post hoc subgroup analysis of the CHAMPION MG study. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:556-565. [PMID: 38380691 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The CHAMPION MG study demonstrated that ravulizumab significantly improved Myasthenia Gravis-Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) and Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG) total scores versus placebo in adults with acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive generalized myasthenia gravis (AChR+ gMG). This post hoc analysis aimed to assess these outcomes by time from MG diagnosis. METHODS Changes from baseline to week 26 in MG-ADL and QMG total scores were analyzed by time from MG diagnosis to study entry (≤2 vs. >2 years). Within each subgroup, least-squares (LS) mean changes for ravulizumab and placebo were compared using mixed models for repeated measures. RESULTS In ravulizumab-treated patients, differences in LS mean (standard error of the mean) changes from baseline to week 26 were not statistically significant in the ≤2-years subgroup versus the >2-years subgroup for MG-ADL (-4.3 [0.70] vs. -2.9 [0.37]; p = .0511) or QMG (-4.3 [0.94] vs. -2.5 [0.50]; p = .0822) scores. No clear trends were observed in the placebo group. LS mean changes from baseline were significantly greater for ravulizumab versus placebo in both the ≤2 and >2 years from diagnosis subgroups for MG-ADL and QMG scores (all p < .05). The difference in treatment effect between the ≤2-years and >2-years subgroups was not statistically significant. No clinically meaningful between-subgroup differences in treatment-emergent adverse events were observed in ravulizumab-treated patients. DISCUSSION Ravulizumab treatment improved clinical outcomes for patients with AChR+ gMG regardless of time from diagnosis. A numerical trend was observed favoring greater treatment effect with earlier versus later treatment after diagnosis. Further studies are required for confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James F Howard
- The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tuan Vu
- University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Serena Liao
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Bleathman F, Kausman JY, Hosking LM, Forbes TA. Ravulizumab facilitates reduced burden of vascular access, a major benefit in paediatric atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome. J Paediatr Child Health 2024. [PMID: 38661088 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.16552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare thrombotic microangiopathy resulting from dysregulation of the alternative complement pathway, leading to multi-organ dysfunction and chronic kidney disease. Eculizumab is an anti-C5 monoclonal antibody therapy that has significantly improved aHUS disease control and patient outcomes, however it requires fortnightly intravenous dosing. This often necessitates long term central access and a high hospital attendance burden. Ravulizumab is a novel, next-generation anti-C5 monoclonal antibody engineered from eculizumab to reduce endosomal degradation of the antibody, increasing the dosing interval up to 8 weeks. CASE SERIES In this retrospective case series we present the transition of three children with aHUS from eculizumab to ravulizumab from a single tertiary paediatric nephrology service. All patients underwent genomic and immunological work up for aHUS, with no cause found. After stabilisation with eculizumab, two patients developed macrovascular thrombotic complications associated with indwelling central vascular catheters, ultimately leading to central access failure. All patients were transitioned from eculizumab to ravulizumab without relapse of aHUS. One patient successfully underwent deceased donor kidney transplantation with ravulizumab for complement inhibition. All patients have transitioned to peripheral access for infusions given the reduced frequency of dosing, maintaining good control of aHUS for 2-4 years. CONCLUSION Ravulizumab permits sufficiently reduced frequency of infusion to allow for administration by peripheral cannulation - removing the risks of long term central vascular access often required to deliver eculizumab to paediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freya Bleathman
- Department of Nephrology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joshua Y Kausman
- Department of Nephrology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Kidney Flagship, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laine M Hosking
- Immunology Laboratory, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thomas A Forbes
- Department of Nephrology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Kidney Flagship, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Di Matteo S, Freilone R, Bruno GM, Notaro R, Moumene S, Martone N, Teruzzi C, Ciccarone A, Colombo GL. Cost-Utility Analysis Comparing Pegcetacoplan to Anti-C5 Monoclonal Antibodies in the Treatment of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria. Clinicoecon Outcomes Res 2024; 16:225-232. [PMID: 38623087 PMCID: PMC11018133 DOI: 10.2147/ceor.s442906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is a rare, acquired disease characterized by hemolytic episodes and associated with significant clinical burden. The introduction of C5 inhibitory monoclonal antibodies (C5i) represented a major breakthrough in PNH treatment, effectively reducing intravascular hemolysis (IVH) but showing limited impact on extravascular hemolysis (EVH). In 2021, the C3 inhibitor pegcetacoplan was approved by EMA and recently reimbursed in Italy, which also has the advantages in the reduction of both IVH and EVH, increasing hemoglobin values and simultaneously improving the quality of life and fatigue of patients. A cost-utility analysis was developed to compare pegcetacoplan to C5i (eculizumab and ravulizumab) in the PNH population who remain anemic after treatment with C5i for at least 3 months. Materials and Methods The analysis employed a Markov model with a 5-year time horizon whereby patients can transition among 3 PNH health states, adopting the perspective of the Italian NHS. Efficacy data were sourced from the PEGASUS study, with drug prices reflecting ex-factory costs. Additionally, costs associated with resource utilization, adverse events, and complications were estimated based on outpatient and hospital care rates, excluding indirect expenses. Utility and disutility values related to transfusions were also considered, with pegcetacoplan allowing for dose escalation. Results The cumulative cost of treatment per individual patient at 5 years was estimated to be €1,483,454 for pegcetacoplan, €1,585,763 for eculizumab, and €1,574,826 for ravulizumab. Pegcetacoplan demonstrated a superior increase in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) compared to both eculizumab (0.51 increase) and ravulizumab (0.27 increase). Furthermore, pegcetacoplan showed a reduction in complication management costs (€22,891 less compared to eculizumab and €22,611 less compared to ravulizumab) and lower transfusion-related expenses (€14,147 less than both C5i treatments). Conclusion Pegcetacoplan emerged as the dominant strategy in this analysis, being more effective, less expensive and improves quality of life in the analyzed population affected by PNH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Di Matteo
- Center of Research, SAVE Studi - Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Freilone
- Dipartimento di Oncologia - Direttore SC Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino e componente Tumor Molecular Board (TMB) Regione Piemonte, Torino, Italy
| | - Giacomo Matteo Bruno
- Center of Research, SAVE Studi - Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Milan, Italy
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Rosario Notaro
- Direttore S.C. Core Research Laboratory in ISPRO, Firenze, Italy
| | - Sabrin Moumene
- Center of Research, SAVE Studi - Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Ciccarone
- Center of Research, SAVE Studi - Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Lorenzo Colombo
- Center of Research, SAVE Studi - Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Milan, Italy
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Laber DA, Patel PC, Logothetis CN, Patel AK, Jaglal M, Haider M, Visweshwar N, Rajasekaran-Rathnakumar G, Eatrides J. Complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy treated with anticomplement protein 5 therapy, a retrospective study. Eur J Haematol 2024; 112:450-457. [PMID: 37984551 DOI: 10.1111/ejh.14136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (CM-TMA), also called atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), is a difficult-to-diagnose rare disease that carries severe morbidity and mortality. Anti-C5 monoclonal antibodies (aC5-mab) are standard treatments, but large studies and long-term data are scarce. Here, we report our single institution experience to augment the knowledge of CM-TMA treated with aC5-mab therapy. METHODS We aimed to assess the short and long-term effects of aC5-mab in patients diagnosed with CM-TMA treated outside of a clinical trial. This was a retrospective study. We included all patients diagnosed with CM-TMA and treated with aC5-mab at our institution. There were no exclusion criteria. Endpoints included complete TMA response (CR) defined as normalization of hematological parameters and ≥25% improvement in serum creatinine (Cr) from baseline in patients with renal disease, relapse defined as losing the previously achieved CR, morbidity, adverse events, and survival. RESULTS We found 28 patients with CM-TMA treated with aC5-mab. The median age was 50 years. Baseline laboratories: platelet counts 93 × 109 /L, hemoglobin 8.6 g/dL, lactate dehydrogenase 1326 U/L, serum Cr 4.7 mg/dL, and estimated glomerular filtration rate 19 mL/min. One individual was on renal replacement therapy (RRT) and 10 initiated RRT within 5 days of the first dose of aC5-mab. Genetic variants associated with CM-TMA included mutations in C3, CFB, CFH, CFHR1/3, CFI, and MCP. The mean duration of hospitalization was 24 days. The median time to initiation of aC5-mab was 10 days. Sixteen subjects received RRT. At the time of hospital discharge, 27 were alive, 14 remained on RRT, and 4 had a CR. At 6 months, 23 patients were alive, 18 continued aC5-mab, 8 remained on RRT, and 9 had a CR. At the last follow-up visit past 6 months, 20 were alive, 14 continued aC5-mab, 5 remained on RRT, 12 had a CR, and 1 was lost to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides real-world experience and insight into the long-term outcomes of CM-TMA treated with aC5-mab. Our findings validate that CM-TMA is an aggressive disease with significant morbidity and mortality, and confirm that aC5-mab is a relatively effective therapy for CM-TMA. Our study adds practical, real-world experience to the literature, but future research remains imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian A Laber
- Department of Satellite and Community Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Parth C Patel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Constantine N Logothetis
- Divisions of Hematology and Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ankita K Patel
- Department of Satellite and Community Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Michael Jaglal
- Department of Satellite and Community Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Mintallah Haider
- Department of Satellite and Community Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Nathan Visweshwar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Geetha Rajasekaran-Rathnakumar
- Department of Satellite and Community Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Jennifer Eatrides
- Department of Satellite and Community Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
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Zadeh S, Price H, Drews R, Bouffard MA, Young LH, Narayanaswami P. Novel uses of complement inhibitors in myasthenia gravis-Two case reports. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:368-372. [PMID: 38205840 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare, life-threatening immune-related adverse effect (irAE) of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment. C5-complement inhibitors are effective treatments for acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR ab) positive generalized MG. We describe the use of eculizumab/ravulizumab in two patients with MG receiving concomitant pembrolizumab. METHODS This was a retrospective review of two medical records. RESULTS Patient 1: An 80-year-old male with recurrent, non-muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder developed ICI-induced AChR ab positive MG (ICI-MG), myositis, and myocarditis 2 weeks after the first dose of pembrolizumab. Myositis responded to corticosteroids. MG responded to eculizumab, followed by ravulizumab. He died of metastatic cancer 8 months later. Patient 2: A 58-year-old male had refractory thymoma-associated AChR ab-positive MG, which responded to eculizumab. He developed metastatic Merkel cell cancer necessitating pembrolizumab. MG remained stable on eculizumab. He had no irAEs for 22 months, with positron emission tomographic resolution of cancer. He then developed mild, indolent retinal vasculitis, which responded to prednisone. Discontinuation of pembrolizumab for 5 months resulted in cancer recurrence; pembrolizumab was resumed with peri-infusion pulse prednisone. MG remained stable and he continues eculizumab. DISCUSSION In the first patient, eculizumab, followed by ravulizumab, improved ICI-MG. In the second patient, eculizumab treatment may have had a prophylactic effect on the development of ICI-induced irAEs. The effect of complement inhibition on cancer outcomes of ICI therapy is unknown. A possible biologic basis for complement inhibitors in reducing irAEs of ICI, especially in the presence of underlying autoimmune disease, merits evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Zadeh
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hayley Price
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Reed Drews
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marc A Bouffard
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lucy H Young
- Retina Services, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pushpa Narayanaswami
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Rozanolixizumab (Rystiggo) for myasthenia gravis. Med Lett Drugs Ther 2024; 66:29-31. [PMID: 38412267 DOI: 10.58347/tml.2024.1696c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
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Miyazaki Y, Fukuda M, Hirayu N, Nabeta M, Takasu O. Pregnancy-Associated Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Successfully Treated with Ravulizumab: A Case Report. Cureus 2024; 16:e54207. [PMID: 38496102 PMCID: PMC10942846 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome (p-aHUS) refers to a pregnancy that leads to thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). This disease is associated with adverse maternal outcomes. We encountered a case of p-aHUS, in which treatment with ravulizumab, a long-acting C5 inhibitor, resulted in a favorable clinical course and recovery of renal function. The patient was a 31-year-old woman with no apparent medical history. She developed TMA on the third postpartum day and was initially treated with steroids, plasma exchange, and hemodialysis (HD). On the seventh day of treatment initiation, she was diagnosed with p-aHUS, and treatment with ravulizumab was started. Following administration, her platelet count increased, and her acute kidney injury improved. Consequently, HD was discontinued after six sessions, and the patient was discharged on the 28th day of treatment initiation and continued her recovery at home. Similar to eculizumab, ravulizumab is an effective treatment for p-aHUS. Early administration of ravulizumab after diagnosis of p-aHUS may contribute to favorable clinical outcomes and recovery of renal function, as observed in the present case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Miyazaki
- Advanced Emergency and Critical Care Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, JPN
| | - Masafumi Fukuda
- Advanced Emergency and Critical Care Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, JPN
| | - Nobuhisa Hirayu
- Advanced Emergency and Critical Care Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, JPN
| | - Masakazu Nabeta
- Advanced Emergency and Critical Care Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, JPN
| | - Osamu Takasu
- Advanced Emergency and Critical Care Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, JPN
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Ortiz S, Pittock SJ, Berthele A, Levy M, Nakashima I, Oreja-Guevara C, Allen K, Mashhoon Y, Parks B, Kim HJ. Immediate and sustained terminal complement inhibition with ravulizumab in patients with anti-aquaporin-4 antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1332890. [PMID: 38356884 PMCID: PMC10865503 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1332890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the long-acting terminal complement 5 (C5) inhibitor ravulizumab in adults with anti-aquaporin-4 antibody-positive (AQP4+) neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in the phase 3, open-label CHAMPION-NMOSD trial (NCT04201262). Methods Patients aged 18 years or older received a weight-based intravenous loading dose of ravulizumab (2,400-3,000 mg) on day 1, followed by weight-based maintenance doses (3,000-3,600 mg) on day 15 and once every 8 weeks thereafter. Pharmacokinetic assessments were maximum observed concentration (Cmax, assessed at the end of the infusion) and concentration at the end of the dosing interval (Ctrough, assessed before dosing) for ravulizumab. Pharmacodynamic assessment was time-matched observed free C5 concentration in serum up to 50 weeks. Results The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis included 58 patients treated with ravulizumab. Serum ravulizumab concentrations at or above the therapeutic threshold (175 μg/mL) were achieved in all patients after administration of the first dose and maintained for 50 weeks. At week 50, the mean (standard deviation) Cmax (n = 51) and Ctrough (n = 52) were 1,887.6 (411.38) and 764.4 (217.68) μg/mL, respectively. Immediate and complete terminal complement inhibition (free C5 serum concentrations < 0.5 μg/mL) was achieved by the end of the first ravulizumab infusion and sustained throughout the treatment period. No treatment-emergent antibodies to ravulizumab were observed. No impact on ravulizumab pharmacokinetics was seen for age, sex, race, hematocrit, hemoglobin, markers of renal and liver impairment, or medications commonly used by patients with NMOSD. Body weight and BMI were significant covariates of ravulizumab pharmacokinetics. Conclusions Serum ravulizumab concentrations were maintained above the therapeutic threshold in all patients through 50 weeks of treatment. Ravulizumab achieved immediate and complete terminal complement inhibition that was sustained throughout the treatment period in adults with AQP4+ NMOSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Ortiz
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sean J. Pittock
- Department of Neurology and Center for Multiple Sclerosis and Autoimmune Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Achim Berthele
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Levy
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ichiro Nakashima
- Division of Neurology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico Universitario San Carlos, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Kerstin Allen
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yasmin Mashhoon
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Becky Parks
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ho Jin Kim
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
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Lee J, Lee H, Kim S, Suh HS. Efficacy of complement inhibitors for patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ther Adv Hematol 2023; 14:20406207231216080. [PMID: 38105771 PMCID: PMC10725119 DOI: 10.1177/20406207231216080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare acquired hematological disease. The development of complement inhibitors such as eculizumab, ravulizumab, and pegcetacoplan has revolutionized the management of PNH, leading to improvements in overall survival and quality of life for patients. Objectives This systematic review aims to provide comprehensive evidence of the efficacy of complement inhibitors in relation to treatment duration. Design This is a systematic review and meta-analysis. Data sources and methods A thorough literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library up to 3 May 2022. We included all prospective interventional studies including single-arm trials. The primary outcomes of interest were lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations, transfusion avoidance, and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue (FACIT-F) scores. Results Our study included a total of 27 studies, comprising 5 randomized controlled trials and 11 single-arm trials, with a total of 912 patients with PNH. We stratified the studies according to treatment duration, based on the most frequently reported period of 26 weeks. Our analysis showed that treatment-naïve patients who received complement inhibitors had a pooled estimate of a decrease in LDH levels from baseline by -1462.0 U/L (95% CI: -1735.6 to -1188.5) for treatment ⩽26 weeks and -1696.5 U/L (95% CI: -2122.7 to -1270.2) for treatment >26 weeks. The mean Hb levels were increased by 1.4 g/dL (95% CI: 0.5-2.3) and 1.9 g/dL (95% CI: 0.7-3.1) in each group. Treatment with any complement inhibitor prevented the need for transfusion in at least 50% of patients with PNH in all treatment periods. Clinically meaningful improvements in FACIT-F were observed both before and after 26 weeks, with a pooled estimate of 6.8 (95% CI: 6.0-7.6) and 9.5 (95% CI: 7.0-12.0), respectively. Conclusion Our findings suggest that complement inhibitors can result in positive treatment outcomes and sustained benefits for patients with PNH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Lee
- Department of Regulatory Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Regulatory Innovation Through Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Haeseon Lee
- Department of Regulatory Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Regulatory Innovation Through Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Siin Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Woosuk University, Wanju-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Sun Suh
- Department of Regulatory Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Regulatory Innovation Through Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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Antozzi C, Mantegazza R. Impact of Ravulizumab on Patient Outcomes and Quality of Life in Generalized Myasthenia Gravis. Patient Relat Outcome Meas 2023; 14:305-312. [PMID: 37876920 PMCID: PMC10590807 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s408175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune ion channel disorder in which antibodies to different end-plate antigens impair neuromuscular transmission, ultimately leading to muscle weakness and fatigability. In about 85% of patients with MG, autoantibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) activate the complement cascade, causing damage to the neuromuscular junction. MG is a chronic disorder for which standard therapies with corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and immunomodulation with plasma exchange or intravenous immunoglobulins modify the course of the disease, but the residual burden of physical, psychological, and social disability highlights several unmet needs, among these the need for specific, targeted, and well tolerated therapies able to improve the patients' quality of life. Complement inhibition paved the way to precision medicine in MG since, for the first time, a specific therapy targeting a crucial pathogenetic step has been designed, tested, and proven to be effective in a controlled fashion. Ravulizumab represents the first long-acting complement inhibitor approved for treatment of patients with generalized MG, able to provide rapid, complete, and sustained complement inhibition. Ravulizumab improved the MG Activity of Daily Living scale and other clinical parameters up to 26 weeks as shown by the CHAMPION MG trial, and by its open label extension, with the added value of being administered every 8 weeks. The schedule of administration is likely to improve patients' adherence and hence their quality of life. The introduction of complement inhibition will considerably change the traditional therapeutic strategy for MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Antozzi
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
- Immunotherapy and Apheresis Departmental Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
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San PP, Jacob S. Role of complement in myasthenia gravis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1277596. [PMID: 37869140 PMCID: PMC10585143 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1277596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is a prototypic neuroimmune disorder with autoantibodies targeting the acetylcholine receptor complex at the neuromuscular junction. Patients present with mainly ocular muscle weakness and tend to have a generalized muscle weakness later in the clinical course. The weakness can be severe and fatal when bulbar muscles are heavily involved. Acetylcholine receptor antibodies are present in the majority of patients and are of IgG1 and IgG3 subtypes which can activate the complement system. The complement involvement plays a major role in the neuromuscular junction damage and the supporting evidence in the literature is described in this article. Complement therapies were initially studied and approved for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and in the past decade, those have also been studied in myasthenia gravis. The currently available randomized control trial and real-world data on the efficacy and safety of the approved and investigational complement therapies are summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pyae Phyo San
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Saiju Jacob
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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13
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Galli N, Pettine L, Panigada M, Daprai L, Suriano G, Grancini A, Barcellini W, Fattizzo B. Non-capsulated Neisseria meningitidis sepsis in a paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria patient treated with ravulizumab: case report and review of the literature. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1269325. [PMID: 37854608 PMCID: PMC10580757 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1269325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare acquired haematopoietic stem cell disease characterized by complement-mediated intravascular hemolysis, thrombosis, and bone marrow failure. Eculizumab and ravulizumab are anti-C5 monoclonal antibodies that reduce hemolysis, anaemia and thrombotic risk, but are associated with increased risk of infection with encapsulated bacteria, including Neisseria meningitidis. We report a case of life-threatening infection by non-groupable Neisseria meningitidis in a young PNH patient treated with ravulizumab. Despite prompt admission to the intensive care unit, microbe isolation was delayed due to the negativity of capsular antigens, and the patient required intubation, dialysis, and transfusion support for pancytopenia. Notably, PNH disease activity remained controlled and no additional anti-C5 doses were administered. Increasing awareness regarding septic risk in PNH patients on complement inhibitors despite vaccinations is pivotal. A warning about serotypes generally not pathogenetic and not covered by vaccination, such as non-capsulated forms, is emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Galli
- Ematologia, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Loredana Pettine
- Ematologia, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panigada
- Anestesia e Terapia Intensiva Adulti, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Daprai
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Laboratorio Analisi, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Grazia Suriano
- Anestesia e Terapia Intensiva Adulti, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Grancini
- Laboratorio di Microbiologia, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Laboratorio Analisi, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Wilma Barcellini
- Ematologia, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bruno Fattizzo
- Ematologia, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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14
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Shahid K, Qayyum S. Eculizumab Versus Ravulizumab for the Treatment of Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e46185. [PMID: 37905269 PMCID: PMC10613336 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a type of thrombotic microangiopathy and is characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney failure. The complement cascade plays an integral role in aHUS. Mutations in the complement cascade, especially in the alternative pathway (AP) lead to an unregulated and continuous activation of the cascade. Eculizumab and ravulizumab are humanized monoclonal antibodies that inhibit the complement cascade. This systematic analysis reviews the evidence for both antibodies to compare them in terms of safety and efficacy. This review will also assess the evidence for biomarker associations with interventions, the role of genetic mutations in the prognosis of disease, and the financial burden of both treatment options. An in-depth search was conducted across PubMed, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Both eculizumab and ravulizumab were comparable in safety and efficacy but ravulizumab was preferred by patients and their caregivers as it posed a lower financial burden and had less frequent dosing. Soluble complement 5b-9 (sC5b), especially in urine, has the potential to be used as a biomarker to assess response to treatment. Genetic mutations, especially mutations in complement factor I (CFI), membrane cofactor protein (MCP), and complement factor H (CFH), were associated with a higher risk of recurrence, and therefore care should be taken when attempting to discontinue treatment in this subset of patients. Treatment with a monoclonal antibody should be initiated as soon as a genetic mutation is identified. Blinded, double-arm, clinical trials preferably with larger sample sizes are needed to effectively compare both the monoclonal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Shahid
- Internal Medicine/Family Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Shahid Qayyum
- Nephrology, Diaverum Dialysis Center, Wadi Al Dawasir, SAU
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15
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Mauch TJ, Chladek MR, Cataland S, Chaturvedi S, Dixon BP, Garlo K, Gasteyger C, Java A, Leguizamo J, Lloyd-Price L, Pham TP, Symonds T, Tomazos I, Wang Y. Treatment preference and quality of life impact: ravulizumab vs eculizumab for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. J Comp Eff Res 2023; 12:e230036. [PMID: 37515502 PMCID: PMC10690411 DOI: 10.57264/cer-2023-0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: Ravulizumab and eculizumab are complement C5 inhibitors approved for the treatment of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). Ravulizumab requires less frequent infusions than eculizumab, which may reduce treatment burden. This study investigated patients' treatment preferences and the impact of both treatments on patient and caregiver quality of life. Materials & methods: Two surveys were conducted (one for adult patients with aHUS and one for caregivers of pediatric patients with aHUS) to quantitatively assess treatment preference and the patient- and caregiver-reported impact of ravulizumab and eculizumab on quality of life. Patients were required to have a diagnosis of aHUS, to be currently receiving treatment with ravulizumab and to have received prior treatment with eculizumab. Participants were recruited via various sources: the Alexion OneSource™ patient support program, the Rare Patient Voice recruitment agency, the aHUS Foundation and directly via a clinician involved in the study. Results: In total, 50 adult patients (mean age: 46.5 years) and 16 caregivers of pediatric patients (mean age: 10.1 years) completed the surveys. Most adult patients (94.0%) and all caregivers reported an overall preference for ravulizumab over eculizumab; infusion frequency was one of the main factors for patients when selecting their preferred treatment. Fewer patients reported disruption to daily life and the ability to go to work/school due to ravulizumab infusion frequency (4.0% and 5.7%, respectively) than eculizumab infusion frequency (72.0% and 60.0%), with similar results for caregivers. Conclusion: Adult patients and caregivers of pediatric patients indicated an overall preference for ravulizumab than eculizumab for the treatment of aHUS, driven primarily by infusion frequency. This study contributes to the emerging real-world evidence on the treatment impact and preference in patients with aHUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teri J Mauch
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, University of Nebraska Medical Center & Omaha Children's Hospital, Omaha, NE 68114, USA
| | - Michael R Chladek
- Clinical Outcomes Assessments & Quantitative Sciences, Clinical Outcomes Solutions, LLC, Chicago, IL 60604, USA
| | - Spero Cataland
- Division of Hematology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43203, USA
| | - Shruti Chaturvedi
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Bradley P Dixon
- Renal Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | | | | | - Anuja Java
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jorge Leguizamo
- Georgia Cancer Specialists, Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Lucy Lloyd-Price
- Clinical Outcomes Assessments, Clinical Outcomes Solutions Ltd, Kent, CT19 4RH, UK
| | - Tan P Pham
- Clinical Outcomes Assessments & Quantitative Sciences, Clinical Outcomes Solutions, LLC, Chicago, IL 60604, USA
| | - Tara Symonds
- Clinical Outcomes Assessments, Clinical Outcomes Solutions Ltd, Kent, CT19 4RH, UK
| | | | - Yan Wang
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, MA 02210, USA
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16
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Marumo A, Okabe H, Sugihara H, Eguchi M. Ravulizumab can effectively treat ischemic enteritis caused by paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. J NIPPON MED SCH 2023:JNMS.2024_91-505. [PMID: 37558427 DOI: 10.1272/jnms.jnms.2024_91-505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic colitis is a common disease with a good prognosis; however, complications can occur in the presence of a serious underlying disease. Herein, we present a case report in which characteristic findings on lower gastrointestinal endoscopy led to a diagnosis of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). An 82-year-old woman visited our hospital for chronic heart and renal failure. She had a history of breast cancer, myocardial infarction, and hemorrhoidal fistula and was initially hospitalized for ischemic colitis. Subsequent lower gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed extensive ulcerative lesions in the ascending, transverse, and descending colon. Histopathologically, small vessels exhibited multiple fibrin thrombus formations. Based on histopathological and endoscopic results, the presence of an underlying disease was suspected. Flow cytometric analysis showed that erythrocytes and granulocytes had 5.5 and 86.4% CD55- and CD59-negative cells, respectively. The patient was ultimately diagnosed with PNH and considered severely ill, given the ischemic colitis-induced abdominal pain and the need for red blood cell transfusions (4-6 units per month). Accordingly, the patient was administered ravulizumab. Ischemic enteritis did not relapse following ravulizumab administration, and transfusion dependence improved. If a patient with ischemic colitis presents atypical lower gastrointestinal endoscopic findings, it is important to explore the presence of an underlying disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Marumo
- Division of Internal Medicine, Fussa Hospital
- Department of Hematology, Nippon Medical School
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17
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Ariceta G. Pharmacological and clinical profile of ravulizumab 100 mg/mL formulation for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2023; 16:401-410. [PMID: 37128905 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2023.2209317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) are two rare and severe conditions caused by chronic complement (C') system dysregulation. Treatment with eculizumab, a recombinant, humanized monoclonal antibody against complement C5, changed the natural history of both diseases inducing remission and improving patient outcome. Ravulizumab, a new long-acting next-generation C5 inhibitor has been recently approved for treatment of PNH and aHUS. AREAS COVERED Main characteristics of ravulizumab are described: composition, dosing, efficacy and safety profile. Further, an overview of seminal studies and clinical trials using ravulizumab to treat PNH and aHUS in children and adults is detailed. Literature review was performed using the following key words: paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, and ravulizumab. EXPERT OPINION Ravulizumab profile to treat PNH and aHUS is equivalent to eculizumab in efficacy and safety but allows extended dosing interval to every 4-8 weeks based on patient weight, and requires reduced infusion time. Less travels to infusion centers and medical visits and decreasing job and school absences, significantly increases patient and families' QoL, while reducing cost. Further infusion time is reduced Ravulizumab will possibly become the treatment of choice for patients with PNH and aHUS on chronic C5 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gema Ariceta
- Pediatric Nephrology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron. Universitat Autonoma Barcelona, Spain
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18
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Fishman J, Kuranz S, Yeh MM, Brzozowski K, Chen H. Changes in Hematologic Lab Measures Observed in Patients with Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Treated with C5 Inhibitors, Ravulizumab and Eculizumab: Real-World Evidence from a US Based EMR Network. Hematol Rep 2023; 15:266-282. [PMID: 37092521 PMCID: PMC10123631 DOI: 10.3390/hematolrep15020027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), a rare acquired hematologic disorder, can be treated with C5 inhibitors (C5i) such as eculizumab or ravulizumab. This retrospective study is the first to describe real-world treatment patterns and changes in hematologic PNH-monitoring laboratory tests among C5i-treated US patients. Data were extracted from TriNetX Dataworks Network and included patients with a PNH diagnosis between 1 January 2010, and 20 August 2021. Patients were stratified into three cohorts based on their C5i usage: eculizumab, ravulizumab (prior eculizumab), and ravulizumab (eculizumab naïve). Hematological markers (hemoglobin [Hb], lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], and absolute reticulocyte count [ARC]) and relevant clinical events (e.g., breakthrough hemolysis [BTH], complement-amplifying conditions [CAC], thrombosis, infection, and all-cause mortality) were captured any time within 12 months post-index treatment. Of the 143 (eculizumab), 43 (ravulizumab, prior eculizumab), and 33 (ravulizumab, eculizumab naïve) patients, mean age across cohorts was 42-51 years, 55-61% were female, 63-73% were White, and 33-40% had aplastic anemia. Among all cohorts 12 months post-C5i treatment, 50-82% remained anemic, 8-32% required ≥1 transfusion, and 13-59% had BTH, of which 33%-54% had CACs. Additionally, thrombosis was seen in 7-15% of patients, infection in 20-25%, and mortality in 1-7%. These findings suggest many C5i-treated patients experience suboptimal disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Fishman
- Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Waltham, MA 02451, USA
| | | | - Michael M Yeh
- Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Waltham, MA 02451, USA
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Vanoli F, Mantegazza R. Ravulizumab for the treatment of myasthenia gravis. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:235-241. [PMID: 36852670 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2185131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neurological B-cell mediated autoimmune disorder affecting the neuromuscular junction. MG therapeutics have always relied on nonselective immunosuppression with oral steroids and non-steroidal immunosuppressants, mainly with good clinical response. However, clinical stabilization is often reached at the cost of many troublesome side effects and up to 15% of MG patients are deemed as refractory to conventional immunosuppression. This highlights the need of a more targeted and efficacious therapeutic approach. Results from the randomized-controlled period of the CHAMPION study demonstrate a good safety, tolerability, and efficacy profile of ravulizumab compared to placebo. Like eculizumab, ravulizumab is an anti-C5 monoclonal antibody, but with an enhanced pharmacokinetic profile, that allows dosing every 8 weeks. AREAS COVERED We provide an overview of ravulizumab biological features and results from the phase III CHAMPION MG (NCT03920293) study. EXPERT OPINION Data of the CHAMPION MG trial demonstrate that ravulizumab is effective and safe in the treatment of generalized MG. Having a rapid clinical effect, with long-term clinical response, ravulizumab could represent a selective immunosuppressive drug of choice in the future therapeutic algorithm of MG, where conventional immunosuppressants slowly leave room for newer drugs with a more targeted mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiammetta Vanoli
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disease Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.,Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disease Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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Ter Avest M, Langemeijer SMC, Blijlevens NMA, van de Kar NCAJ, Ter Heine R. Dose optimalization of subcutaneous ravulizumab is predicted to yield significant savings and to improve patient friendliness. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2023; 89:1211-1215. [PMID: 36394176 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ravulizumab is an expensive complement C5-inhibitor for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria. Recently, a subcutaneous formulation has entered the market, for which the approved dosing regimen results in supratherapeutic ravulizumab concentrations in the majority of patients in the registration studies. Therefore, we explored alternative dosing regimens in silico based on the registration data of the manufacturer. Extending the interval from 1 to 2 weeks or individualized dosing based on therapeutic drug monitoring resulted in therapeutic ravulizumab concentrations and comparable predicted efficacy in terms of lactate dehydrogenase normalization, with dose reductions up to 64%. We here show that with an individualized dose, a substantial dose reduction for subcutaneous ravulizumab might be possible with improved patient-friendliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mendy Ter Avest
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Nicole M A Blijlevens
- Department of Haematology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole C A J van de Kar
- Deparment of Paediatric Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rob Ter Heine
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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21
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Riley TR, Douglas JS, Wang C, Bowser KM. An update of the pharmacological treatment options for generalized myasthenia gravis in adults with anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2023; 80:652-662. [PMID: 36775959 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxad035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
DISCLAIMER In an effort to expedite the publication of articles, AJHP is posting manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time. PURPOSE This review aims to provide an update on current pharmacological agents for the management of generalized myasthenia gravis (MG). SUMMARY MG is an autoimmune disease characterized by impaired neuromuscular transmission and muscle weakness. Most patients have autoimmune antibodies to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, with treatments aimed at eliminating or decreasing levels of autoantibodies. Limitations of current treatments for generalized MG include limited efficacy and serious adverse effects, indicating a continued need for new treatments. Efgartigimod alfa, a biologic newly approved by the Food and Drug Administration, provides a novel treatment option for patients with chronic generalized MG. CONCLUSION While the landscape for treatment of generalized MG has expanded over recent years, there is still an unmet need for patients for whom multiple lines of treatment have failed. The introduction of neonatal Fc receptor antagonists such as efgartigimod alfa may have an immediate impact in patients for whom standard-of-care therapy has failed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya R Riley
- Wingate University School of Pharmacy, Hendersonville, NC, USA
| | - Janine S Douglas
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher Wang
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kiarra M Bowser
- Wingate University School of Pharmacy, Hendersonville, NC, USA
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22
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Kim W, Kim HJ. An update on biologic treatments for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2023; 19:111-121. [PMID: 36414430 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2151441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system mediated by antibodies targeting the aquaporin-4 (AQP4) water channel expressed on astrocytes. The binding of specific antibodies to AQP4 causes complement-dependent cytotoxicity, leading to inflammation and demyelination. Several recent phase 2 and 3 randomized placebo-controlled trials showed the efficacy and safety of monoclonal antibody therapies targeting B-cells, interleukin-6 receptor, and complement. AREAS COVERED Current biologic treatments for NMOSD and developments therein, and unresolved issues in NMOSD treatment. EXPERT OPINION New biologic treatments demonstrate high efficacy and good safety for patients with AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD. The optimal therapeutics for seronegative NMOSD, pediatric patients, and female patients who are pregnant or wish to be are unclear, and further research is needed. Also, real-world studies of new biological agents and the data on the durability of their beneficial effects and their long-term safety are required. Effective rescue therapy for an acute attack is critical given permanent disability in NMOSD is attack-related, and biologic agents that treat acute attack are emerging. If such treatments are to become widely applied, studies on the most cost-effective treatment strategies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woojun Kim
- Department of Neurology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ho Jin Kim
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
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23
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Matošević M, Kos I, Davidović M, Ban M, Matković H, Jakopčić I, Vuković Brinar I, Szilágyi Á, Csuka D, Sinkovits G, Prohászka Z, Vrljičak K, Lamot L. Hemolytic uremic syndrome in the setting of COVID-19 successfully treated with complement inhibition therapy: An instructive case report of a previously healthy toddler and review of literature. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1092860. [PMID: 36873657 PMCID: PMC9975343 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1092860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As the global pandemic continues, new complications of COVID-19 in pediatric population have turned up, one of them being hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (CM-TMA) characterized by triad of thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and acute kidney injury (AKI). With both multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and HUS sharing complement dysregulation as one of the key factors, the aim of this case report is to highlight differences between these two conditions and also emphasize the importance of complement blockade as a treatment modality. CASE REPORT We describe a 21-month-old toddler who initially presented with fever and confirmed COVID-19. His condition quickly deteriorated and he developed oliguria, accompanied with diarrhea, vomiting and oral intake intolerance. HUS was suspected, supported with compelling laboratory findings, including decreased platelets count and C3 levels, elevated LDH, urea, serum creatinine and sC5b-9 and presence of schistocytes in peripheral blood, negative fecal Shiga toxin and normal ADAMTS13 metalloprotease activity. The patient was given C5 complement blocker Ravulizumab and started to display rapid improvement. CONCLUSION Although reports of HUS in the setting of COVID-19 continue to pour in, the questions of exact mechanism and similarities to MIS-C remain. Our case for the first time accentuates the use of complement blockade as a valuable treatment option in this scenario. We sincerely believe that reporting on HUS as a complication of COVID-19 in children will give rise to improved diagnosis and treatment, as well as better understanding of both of these intricating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matija Matošević
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivanka Kos
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maša Davidović
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Ban
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Hana Matković
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivan Jakopčić
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivana Vuković Brinar
- Department of Nephrology, Hypertension, Dialysis and Transplantation, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Szilágyi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dorottya Csuka
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - György Sinkovits
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Prohászka
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Research Group for Immunology and Haematology, Semmelweis University- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (Office for Supported Research Groups), Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kristina Vrljičak
- Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lovro Lamot
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia.,Division of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Gumulec J, Demel I, Lančová K, Drbohlavová E, Piegzová A, Kořístek Z, Navrátil M, Černý V. Selected severe „haematological“ syndromes in adult intensive care patients. Vnitr Lek 2022; 68:498-507. [PMID: 36575067 DOI: 10.36290/vnl.2022.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Haemophagocytic syndrome, diffuse alveolar haemorrhage, catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome and various types of thrombotic microangiopathies are rare conditions with significant morbidity and mortality. A common feature is late diagnosis, which can affect the success of treatment. The aim of this review article is to summarize the basic diagnostic and therapeutic steps of the present subpopulation of critically ill patients.
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Sicre de Fontbrune F, Burmester P, Piggin M, Matos JE, Costantino H, Wilson K, Hakimi Z, Nazir J, Desgraz R, Fishman J, Persson E, Panse J. The burden of illness of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria receiving C5 inhibitors: clinical outcomes and medical encounters from the patient perspective. Hematology 2022; 27:1140-1151. [PMID: 36165770 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2022.2127630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the clinical and healthcare resource burden among C5 inhibitor (C5i)-treated patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), using patient-reported data. METHODS This web-based, cross-sectional survey (01FEB2021-31MAR2021) of adults with PNH treated with eculizumab (France, Germany, UK) or ravulizumab (Germany) included: patient characteristics; treatment patterns/dosage; haematological outcomes (haemoglobin [Hb] levels, transfusions, thrombotic events, breakthrough haemolysis); and medical encounters. Treatment and Hb-level subgroup differences were assessed with statistical significance tests. RESULTS Among 71 patients, 98.6% were C5i-treated for ≥3 months. The majority (with reported Hb levels) had levels ≤12.0 g/dL (85.7%; n = 54/63). The mean Hb level was 10.2 g/dL (standard deviation [SD]: 2.0; median 10.0 g/dL). Treatment with above label-recommended doses was reported by 30.4% (eculizumab) and 5.3% (ravulizumab) of patients. Within the past 12 months among patients treated with C5i for ≥1 year: 24.1% had ≥1 transfusion; 3.2% had ≥1 thrombosis; and 28.6% had ≥1 breakthrough haemolysis. Among all patients, 26.8% and 31.0% reported emergency department/room [ER] and inpatient visits, respectively. Mean annual, per-patient all-cause medical encounters were: 0.5 (ER); 1.9 (inpatient); and overall outpatient visits ranged by setting from 2.0 to 6.4. Most encounters were PNH-related, with means of 0.4 (ER); 1.8 (inpatient); and 1.6-5.4 (outpatient). Primary haematological and medical encounter outcomes were similar between treatment as well as Hb-level subgroups, with almost no statistically significant differences. CONCLUSIONS Despite at least 3 months of C5i treatment, high proportions of patients with PNH reported low haemoglobin levels and required transfusions and hospitalizations, which suggests remaining unmet needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flore Sicre de Fontbrune
- Hematology transplant Unit - French Reference Center for Aplastic Anemia, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Joana E Matos
- Employee of Kantar Health, New York, NY, USA at the time of the study
| | | | - Koo Wilson
- Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jens Panse
- Department of Oncology, Hematology, Hemostaseology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO) Aachen, Bonn, Cologne, Duesseldorf
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Panse J, Sicre de Fontbrune F, Burmester P, Piggin M, Matos JE, Costantino H, Wilson K, Hakimi Z, Nazir J, Desgraz R, Fishman J, Persson E, Kulasekararaj A. The Burden of Illness of Patients With Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria Receiving C5 Inhibitors in France, Germany and the United Kingdom: Patient-reported Insights on Symptoms and Quality of Life. Eur J Haematol Suppl 2022; 109:351-363. [PMID: 35746830 PMCID: PMC9545353 DOI: 10.1111/ejh.13816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the clinical, humanistic, and economic burden of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) among C5 inhibitor (C5i)-treated patients with PNH METHODS: This was a web-based, cross-sectional survey (01FEB2021-31MAR2021) of adults with PNH treated with eculizumab (France, Germany, UK) or ravulizumab (Germany). Self-reported outcomes included: patient characteristics; patient-reported symptoms; and standardized patient-reported outcomes (e.g., Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy [FACIT]-Fatigue, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 [EORTC QLQ-C30]). RESULTS Among 71 included patients, 98.6% were C5i-treated for ≥3 months (88.7% ≥12 months); among those with self-reported haemoglobin (Hb) levels (n=63), most (85.7%) were anaemic (defined as ≤12.0 g/dL). Fatigue was the most common symptom at both diagnosis (73.2%) and survey time (63.4%); there were no statistically significant differences in symptom prevalence between treatment subgroups (eculizumab versus ravulizumab). Total FACIT-Fatigue and EORTC QLQ-C30 scores were substantially lower than European general population references, but there were no statistically significant differences between treatment subgroups. Hb level subgroups (<10.5 g/dL versus ≥10.5 g/dL) followed similar trends for all measures, with few significant subgroup differences. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that there remains a considerable burden and unmet need among C5i-treated patients with PNH that requires improved therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Panse
- Department of Oncology, Hematology, Hemostaseology and Stem Cell Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany.,Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO) Aachen, Bonn, Cologne, Duesseldorf
| | - Flore Sicre de Fontbrune
- Hematology transplant Unit-French Reference Center for Aplastic Anemia, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Koo Wilson
- Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB, Stockholm, Sweden
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Kulasekararaj AG, Brodsky RA, Nishimura JI, Patriquin CJ, Schrezenmeier H. The importance of terminal complement inhibition in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Ther Adv Hematol 2022; 13:20406207221091046. [PMID: 35663504 PMCID: PMC9160915 DOI: 10.1177/20406207221091046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare, chronic hematologic disorder associated with inappropriate terminal complement activity on blood cells that can result in intravascular hemolysis (IVH), thromboembolic events (TEs), and organ damage. Untreated individuals with PNH have an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Patients with PNH experiencing IVH often present with an elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; ⩾ 1.5 × the upper limit of normal) level which is associated with a significantly higher risk of TEs, one of the leading causes of death in PNH. LDH is therefore used as a biomarker for IVH in PNH. The main objective of PNH treatment should therefore be prevention of morbidity and mortality due to terminal complement activation, with the aim of improving patient outcomes. Approval of the first terminal complement inhibitor, eculizumab, greatly changed the treatment landscape of PNH by giving patients an effective therapy and demonstrated the critical role of terminal complement and the possibility of modulating it therapeutically. The current mainstays of treatment for PNH are the terminal complement component 5 (C5) inhibitors, eculizumab and ravulizumab, which have shown efficacy in controlling terminal complement-mediated IVH, reducing TEs and organ damage, and improving health-related quality of life in patients with PNH since their approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2007 and 2018, respectively. Moreover, the use of eculizumab has been shown to reduce mortality due to PNH. More recently, interest has arisen in developing additional complement inhibitors with different modes of administration and therapeutics targeting other components of the complement cascade. This review focuses on the pathophysiology of clinical complications in PNH and explores why sustained inhibition of terminal complement activity through the use of complement inhibitors is essential for the management of patients with this chronic and debilitating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin G. Kulasekararaj
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK
- National Institute of Health Research/Wellcome King’s Clinical Research Facility and King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | - Jun-ichi Nishimura
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Christopher J. Patriquin
- Division of Medical Oncology & Hematology, University Health Network – Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hubert Schrezenmeier
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University of Ulm, and Institute of Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Yoo JJ, Chonat S. Evaluating ravulizumab for the treatment of children and adolescents with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Expert Rev Hematol 2022; 15:385-392. [PMID: 35502699 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2022.2073215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare acquired clonal stem cell disease harvesting a somatic mutation in the phosphatidylinositol glycan class A (PIG-A) gene. This mutation results in a deficiency in cell membrane complement regulators leading to activation of the terminal complement pathway, clinically presenting as hemolytic anemia and thrombosis, and frequently associated with bone marrow failure. This condition was historically managed with supportive care and bone marrow transplant. AREAS COVERED This paper will review primary data on the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of ravulizumab in the pediatric/adolescent population gathered from literature search from PubMed, abstracts from annual meetings, and medication package inserts. Eligible clinical trials identified on the clinicaltrials.gov website are also briefly discussed. EXPERT OPINION : The discovery of eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody against complement protein 5, has revolutionized the PNH landscape, with decreased hemolysis and risk of thrombosis, improved quality-of-life, and has become the standard of care. Ravulizumab, a longer-acting C5-inhibitor with 4 times the half-life of eculizumab, was recently approved for pediatric patients with PNH. Ravulizumab is effective, safe, and has the potential to improve quality of life further. In addition, ongoing clinical trials using second-generation complement inhibitors may provide promising new interventions in PNH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin J Yoo
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Satheesh Chonat
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Kulasekararaj AG, Griffin M, Langemeijer S, Usuki K, Kulagin A, Ogawa M, Yu J, Mujeebuddin A, Nishimura JI, Lee JW, Peffault de Latour R. Long-term safety and efficacy of ravulizumab in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria: 2-year results from two pivotal phase 3 studies. Eur J Haematol 2022; 109:205-214. [PMID: 35502600 PMCID: PMC9546219 DOI: 10.1111/ejh.13783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The complement component 5 (C5) inhibitor ravulizumab demonstrated non-inferiority to eculizumab following 26 weeks of treatment in complement inhibitor-naïve and complement inhibitor-experienced patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH; studies 301 and 302, respectively). This study aims to describe the results of both studies from 27 weeks to 2 years. METHODS Patients (N = 441) continued to receive ravulizumab throughout the extension period. Efficacy endpoints included lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) normalization, transfusion avoidance and fatigue score (FACIT-F). Safety analyses were also performed. RESULTS From 27 weeks to 2 years, improvements in LDH levels were maintained in both study populations. Transfusion avoidance was maintained in 81.9% (study 301) and 85.6% (study 302) of patients, and FACIT-F scores remained stable. Ravulizumab was well tolerated, and the incidence of adverse events (AEs) were similar between patients of both studies. Incidence of serious AEs deemed related to ravulizumab treatment was low (<3%). CONCLUSIONS This study reports, to date, the longest period of follow-up in over 400 patients with PNH treated with ravulizumab (662 patient-years). Long-term, ravulizumab demonstrated durable efficacy and was well tolerated, highlighting the importance of C5 inhibitors as the mainstay of PNH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin G Kulasekararaj
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital, National Institute for Health Research and Wellcome King's Clinical Research Facility and King's College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Alexander Kulagin
- RM Gorbacheva Research Institute, Pavlov University, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - Masayo Ogawa
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ji Yu
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Jong Wook Lee
- Department of Hematology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Kulasekararaj A, Glasmacher A, Liu P, Szer J, Araten D, Rauch G, Gwaltney C, Sierra JR, Lee JW. Composite endpoint to evaluate complement inhibition therapy in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Eur J Haematol Suppl 2022; 108:391-402. [PMID: 35100459 PMCID: PMC9311164 DOI: 10.1111/ejh.13746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This study developed and explored a novel composite endpoint to assess the overall impact that treatment can have on patients living with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). Candidate composite endpoint variables were selected by a group of experts and included: lactate dehydrogenase levels as a measure of intravascular hemolysis; complete terminal complement inhibition; absence of major adverse vascular events, including thrombosis; absence of any adverse events leading to death or discontinuation of study treatment; transfusion avoidance; and improvements in fatigue‐related quality of life as determined by the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT)‐Fatigue score. From these variables, a novel composite endpoint was constructed and explored using data collected in the ravulizumab PNH Study 301 (NCT02946463). Thresholds were defined and reported for each candidate variable. Five of the six candidate variables were included in the final composite endpoint; the FACIT‐Fatigue score was excluded. Composite endpoint criterion was defined as patients meeting all five selected individual component thresholds. All patients in the ravulizumab arm achieved complete terminal complement inhibition and a reduction in lactate dehydrogenase levels; 51.2% and 41.3% of patients in the ravulizumab arm and eculizumab arm, respectively, achieved all composite endpoint component thresholds (treatment difference: 9.4%; 95% confidence interval: −3.0, 21.5). The composite endpoint provided a single and simultaneous measurement of overall benefit for patients receiving treatment for PNH. Use of the composite endpoint in future PNH research is recommended to determine clinical benefit, and its use in health technology assessments should be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Kulasekararaj
- King's College Hospital, King's College London, and NIHR/Wellcome Trust King's Clinical Research Facility, London, UK
| | - Axel Glasmacher
- AG Life Science Consulting, Alfter, Germany.,Department of Medicine III, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Peng Liu
- Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeff Szer
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Araten
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Geraldine Rauch
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Chad Gwaltney
- Gwaltney Consulting, Westerly, Rhode Island, USA.,Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | | | - Jong Wook Lee
- Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Dixon BP, Sabus A. Ravulizumab 100 mg/mL formulation reduces infusion time and frequency, improving the patient and caregiver experience in the treatment of atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome. J Clin Pharm Ther 2022; 47:1081-1087. [PMID: 35304755 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.13642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE The C5 inhibitor eculizumab is the standard of care for treatment of atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS). Ravulizumab, a next-generation C5 inhibitor, was engineered to have a longer terminal half-life than eculizumab. We describe practical benefits of the advanced ravulizumab 100 mg/mL formulation. COMMENT Use of ravulizumab results in fewer maintenance infusions per year (25%-50%) compared with eculizumab. Maintenance infusion time of ravulizumab 100 mg/mL is 2-4 times shorter than ravulizumab 10 mg/mL in all weight cohorts and approximately half that of eculizumab for patients weighing <40 kg. Ravulizumab 100 mg/mL requires fewer vials annually than eculizumab in most weight cohorts. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION With ravulizumab 100 mg/mL, patients and caregivers experience fewer infusions per year and decreased annual infusion times, improving infusion experience. Infusion centres can expect corresponding decreases in resource utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley P Dixon
- Renal Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ashley Sabus
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Takahashi H, Mori H, Fukatsu M, Sano T, Harada K, Oikawa M, Takeishi Y, Kimura S, Ohkawara H, Shichishima T, Ikezoe T. Successful management of unstable angina in a ravulizumab-treated patient with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Fukushima J Med Sci 2022; 68:175-178. [PMID: 36130907 PMCID: PMC9840890 DOI: 10.5387/fms.2022-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Ravulizumab is an anti-C5 antibody approved for treating paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). In August 2019, a 77-year-old Japanese man with PNH, who had been on ravulizumab treatment for 2 years, was hospitalized for chest discomfort and malaise. Electrocardiography identified a right bundle block, and elevated serum troponin I and d-dimer suggested ischemic heart disease. Cardiac catheterization revealed severe stenosis in the left anterior descending coronary artery, and intracoronary stenting relieved his chest discomfort. The final diagnosis was unstable angina unrelated to ravulizumab, and the patient's ravulizumab treatment was uninterrupted with no significant complications of PNH. This case report highlights the importance of continuing complement inhibition therapy during acute coronary events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hirotaka Mori
- Department of Hematology, Fukushima Medical University
| | | | - Takahiro Sano
- Department of Hematology, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Kayo Harada
- Department of Hematology, Fukushima Medical University
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Levy AR, Chen P, Johnston K, Wang Y, Popoff E, Tomazos I. Quantifying the economic effects of ravulizumab versus eculizumab treatment in patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. J Med Econ 2022; 25:249-259. [PMID: 35020547 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2022.2027706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This study compared the aggregate duration of treatment administration of approved eculizumab and ravulizumab treatment regimens and resultant productivity implications for patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) and their caregivers. METHODS The aggregate duration of treatment administration (which includes waiting time for medication preparation and time for infusion, recovery, and travel to and from the clinic) was determined for a hypothetical population of patients with aHUS treated with eculizumab (10 mg/mL) or ravulizumab (10 or 100 mg/mL), in the clinic or at home, for 1 year, in Germany, Italy, the UK, and the US. The data for US patients treated in the clinic was used to extend a previously published cost-minimization model (CMM) to estimate the annual lost productivity associated with treatment administration and to compare the overall annual treatment costs for hypothetical adult and pediatric patients in the US. RESULTS The aggregate duration of treatment administration associated with ravulizumab 10 mg/mL and 100 mg/mL was reduced by 44-52% and 69-74%, respectively, compared with eculizumab 10 mg/mL, across all four countries. Using the CMM, the adult and pediatric US patient lost productivity costs due to treatment were reduced by 56-60% and 73-76% with ravulizumab 10 mg/mL and 100 mg/mL, respectively, compared with eculizumab 10 mg/mL, and overall discounted annual treatment costs (direct and lost productivity costs owing to treatment) were reduced for ravulizumab (10 mg/mL and 100 mg/mL) vs eculizumab 10 mg/mL for adult and pediatric patients. LIMITATIONS This study was based on hypothetical patients, and assumptions were made regarding caregiver involvement, patient characteristics, and treatment patterns. CONCLUSIONS Compared with eculizumab, ravulizumab reduces the lost productivity costs associated with treatment. This reduction in costs is greater with the ravulizumab 100 mg/mL formulation, compared with ravulizumab 10 mg/mL, owing to shorter infusion times with this more concentrated formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian R Levy
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Peter Chen
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karissa Johnston
- Broadstreet Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yan Wang
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Evan Popoff
- Broadstreet Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Wu X, Szarzanowicz A, Garba A, Schaefer B, Waz WR. Blockade of the Terminal Complement Cascade Using Ravulizumab in a Pediatric Patient With Anti-complement Factor H Autoantibody-Associated aHUS: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus 2021; 13:e19476. [PMID: 34912617 PMCID: PMC8665822 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare disease in pediatrics with 6-10% of cases associated with complement factor H autoantibodies. Ravulizumab is a new treatment option available for long-term management through blockage of the terminal complement cascade. We report a case of a previously healthy eight-year-old female who presented with hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury. Low complement C3, normal ADAMTS13, and negative rheumatology and infectious disease panels suggested aHUS. A follow-up complement aHUS/TMA gene panel was negative for ADAMTS13, C3, CD46, CFB, CFD, CFH, CFHR1, CFHR3, CFHR5, CRI, DGKE, PLG, and THBD mutations and positive for MCP/CD46 haplotype and CFH-H3 haplotype. Further testing found decreased factor H (B1H) plasma level and increased factor H autoantibody, suggesting anti-factor H antibody-associated aHUS. She received hemodialysis (2 treatments) and eculizumab was initiated promptly. The patient had complete renal recovery after one month of therapy, and anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hemolysis resolved after two months of therapy. After five months of therapy, eculizumab was successfully switched to ravulizumab. After 12 months of initial diagnosis, complement C3 and factor H normalized, however, factor H autoantibody remained elevated. The case supports the notion that timely recognition of anti-FH-associated aHUS is important for disease management and that early specific therapy with immunosuppression results in favorable outcomes. It also illustrates that the blockade of the terminal complement cascade using eculizumab holds promise for pediatric cases. Finally, eculizumab can be safely switched to ravulizumab with an optimal longer duration between treatments in the context of aHUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Wu
- Nephrology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, USA
| | - Amanda Szarzanowicz
- Medicine, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, USA
| | - Adinoyi Garba
- D'Youville School of Pharmacy, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, USA
| | - Beverly Schaefer
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, USA
| | - Wayne R Waz
- Nephrology, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, USA
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Gurnari C, Nautiyal I, Pagliuca S. Current Opinions on the Clinical Utility of Ravulizumab for the Treatment of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2021; 17:1343-1351. [PMID: 34934322 PMCID: PMC8684432 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s273360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare disorder of hematopoietic stem cells genetically defined by the acquisition of somatic mutations in the X-linked phosphatidylinositol glycan anchor biosynthesis, class A (PIGA) gene. PIGA is essential for the synthesis of glycosyl phosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor proteins and its mutations result in a deficiency of such molecules on the membrane of blood cells derived from the mutant clone. In particular, the lack of the GPI-linked complement regulatory proteins CD55 and CD59 is responsible for the increased sensitivity of PNH erythrocytes to complement-mediated destruction. Indeed, the classical clinical picture of PNH includes signs and symptoms of intravascular hemolysis along with variable degrees of cytopenia and a strong tendency to thrombosis, hallmarks of the disease. Before the introduction of anti-complement inhibitors, PNH was characterized by a high mortality primarily due to thrombotic events. The approval of the terminal anti-complement inhibitor eculizumab in 2007 introduced a paradigm shift in the treatment of the disease with improvement of the chronic hemolytic process and dramatic reduction of the thrombotic rate. However, eculizumab has a relatively short half-life when considering a life-long treatment, with obvious consequences as to the quality of life of treated patients necessitating relatively frequent drug administrations. Moreover, up to 30% of PNH patients undergoing eculizumab therapy show a suboptimal response, continuing to require red cell transfusions because of extravascular hemolysis or breakthrough hemolytic episodes. In 2019, the FDA approved the second-generation C5 inhibitor ravulizumab, a long-lasting agent with a better control of disease manifestations. Herein, we discuss the use of ravulizumab in PNH, its differences with first-generation C5 inhibitors, the research evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of this drug and its impact on costs for health systems and quality of life of PNH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Gurnari
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, PhD in Immunology, Molecular Medicine and Applied Biotechnology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Ishani Nautiyal
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Simona Pagliuca
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
- ED561 Hematology, Oncogenesis and Biotherapies, University of Paris, Paris, France
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Bhak RH, Mody-Patel N, Baver SB, Kunzweiler C, Yee CW, Sundaresan S, Swartz N, Duh MS, Krishnan S, Sarda SP. Comparative effectiveness of pegcetacoplan versus ravulizumab in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria previously treated with eculizumab: a matching-adjusted indirect comparison. Curr Med Res Opin 2021; 37:1913-1923. [PMID: 34445916 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2021.1971182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the absence of a head-to-head study, we assessed the comparative effectiveness of pegcetacoplan, a targeted C3 complement inhibitor, vs. ravulizumab, a C5 complement inhibitor, among patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) previously treated with eculizumab using matching-adjusted indirect comparison methodology. METHODS Individual patient data from the PEGASUS study (NCT03500549) comparing pegcetacoplan and eculizumab enabled adjustment for baseline differences compared with published results from the ALXN1210-PNH-302 study (NCT03056040), comparing ravulizumab and eculizumab. Adjusted differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed via weighted Wald tests for comparisons of pegcetacoplan vs. ravulizumab, anchored to the common comparator eculizumab. RESULTS Sixty-eight patients from PEGASUS (36 pegcetacoplan; 32 eculizumab) and 195 from ALXN1210-PNH-302 (97 ravulizumab; 98 eculizumab) were included. Compared with ravulizumab, treatment with pegcetacoplan was associated with more transfusion avoidance (adjusted difference [95% CI] = +71.4% [53.5%, 89.3%]), hemoglobin level stabilization (+75.5% [56.4%, 94.6%]), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level normalization (+64.0% [41.8%, 86.1%]), and fewer blood transfusions (-5.7 units [-7.2, -4.2]). Additionally, patients who received pegcetacoplan experienced clinically meaningful improvements in fatigue (+8.2 points [3.8, 12.6]), global health status (+9.6 points [0.1, 19.0]), physical functioning (+11.5 points [3.6, 19.5]), and fatigue symptoms (-13.3 points [-23.7, -3.0]), compared with ravulizumab. Mean change from baseline in LDH level was not significantly different for pegcetacoplan vs. ravulizumab. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that among patients previously treated with eculizumab, clinical, hematological, and quality of life endpoints were better for patients who received the C3 complement inhibitor pegcetacoplan vs. patients who received ravulizumab, a C5 complement inhibitor.
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Barbour T, Scully M, Ariceta G, Cataland S, Garlo K, Heyne N, Luque Y, Menne J, Miyakawa Y, Yoon SS, Kavanagh D. Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of the Long-Acting Complement C5 Inhibitor Ravulizumab for the Treatment of Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome in Adults. Kidney Int Rep 2021; 6:1603-1613. [PMID: 34169200 PMCID: PMC8207473 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2021.03.884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare, complex, multisystem disease of dysregulated complement activity, characterized by progressive thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), acute kidney injury, and multiorgan dysfunction, which often progresses to chronic kidney disease. Results from the prospective clinical trial of ravulizumab (NCT02949128) reveal rapid resolution of TMA in patients with aHUS, with sustained efficacy and safety in a 26-week initial evaluation period. Methods The aim of this analysis was to characterize the long-term efficacy and the safety profile of ravulizumab in adults with aHUS who had completed the initial evaluation period of the trial. Complete TMA response, hematologic and kidney functions, and safety were evaluated for all patients available for follow-up in the extension period (median follow-up: 76.7 weeks; range: 0.6–118.3). This trial included a total of 58 patients, 49 of whom entered the extension period. Results A total of 4 additional patients achieved complete TMA response during the follow-up period. Normalization of platelet count, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and hemoglobin observed in the 26-week initial evaluation period was sustained until the last available follow-up, as were the improvements in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and patient quality of life. All efficacy endpoints were correlated with the sustained inhibition of complement C5. Most adverse events (AEs) occurred early during the initial evaluation period and decreased substantially during the extension period. No patient developed a meningococcal infection or died during the extension period. Conclusion This analysis reveals that ravulizumab administered every 8 weeks is efficacious with an acceptable safety profile for the long-term treatment of adults with aHUS and provides additional clinical benefit beyond 6 months of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Barbour
- Kidney Care, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marie Scully
- Department of Haematology, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Gema Ariceta
- Paediatric Nephrology Department, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Spero Cataland
- Division of Hematology, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Katherine Garlo
- Clinical Development, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nils Heyne
- Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, Tübingen University Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yosu Luque
- Intensive Care Nephrology and Transplantation Department, APHP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Jan Menne
- KRH Klinikum Mitte-Location Siloah, Hannover, Germany
| | - Yoshitaka Miyakawa
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Sung-Soo Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - David Kavanagh
- Complement Therapeutics Research Group, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Ter Avest M, Langemeijer SMC, Schols SEM, Burger DM, van de Kar NCAJ, Blijlevens NMA, Kievit W, Ter Heine R. The potential of individualized dosing of ravulizumab to improve patient-friendliness of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria treatment at reduced costs. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 87:3359-3363. [PMID: 33512711 PMCID: PMC8359320 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ravulizumab is a very expensive complement C5‐inhibitor for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria, with a fixed‐dosing interval of 8 weeks. For lifelong treatment, a cost‐effective and patient‐friendly dosing strategy is preferred. We therefore explored alternative ravulizumab dosing regimens in silico based on the thorough dose‐finding studies of the manufacturer. Extending the interval to 10 weeks or individually extending the interval to a mean of 12.8 weeks based on pharmacokinetic monitoring resulted in noninferior efficacy in terms of lactate dehydrogenase normalization, with drug cost savings up to 37%. We here show the potential of individualized ravulizumab dosing to improve patient‐friendliness at reduced costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mendy Ter Avest
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Saskia E M Schols
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - David M Burger
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole C A J van de Kar
- Deparment of Pediatric Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole M A Blijlevens
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wietske Kievit
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Rob Ter Heine
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is an atypical type of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), which is characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA), thrombocytopenia, and thrombi in small blood vessels, leading to end-organ damage. aHUS causes an over-activation of the complement pathway. There are many etiologies of aHUS, including inherited and acquired. This condition has a high mortality rate, as it is often detected late in the disease course. Eculizumab, an inhibitor of the terminal complement pathway, needs to be prescribed as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed. There is limited evidence, however, regarding the duration of treatment. Therefore, it is vital to conduct further analysis on other alternatives and pharmacokinetics with this type of complement inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Sethi
- Internal Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Raj Moses
- Oncology, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, USA
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MacDougall KN, Schwartz B, Harewood J, Bukhari Z, Neculiseanu E. A Case of Gemcitabine-Induced Thrombotic Microangiopathy Treated With Ravulizumab in a Patient With Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer. Cureus 2021; 13:e13031. [PMID: 33680585 PMCID: PMC7931775 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.13031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A 47-year-old male with stage IV pancreatic cancer developed gemcitabine-induced thrombotic microangiopathy (GiTMA) after treatment with gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel. GiTMA is a rare and life-threatening complication with an incidence ranging from 0.015% to 1.4% and reported mortality rate ranging from 50% to 90%. Clinically, GiTMA manifests as microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and renal failure. Early identification of GiTMA is essential to initiate early treatment and improve survival. Treatment of GiTMA includes discontinuation of gemcitabine, along with initiation of steroids, therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), rituximab, and eculizumab. To our knowledge, this is the first case of GiTMA treated with ravulizumab, a long-acting complement inhibitor. Given the increasing number of patients treated with gemcitabine and seriousness of this complication, it is important for physicians to be aware of this disease entity and maintain a high index of suspicion when evaluating patients with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and renal failure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin Schwartz
- Hematology and Oncology, State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, USA
| | - Janine Harewood
- Hematology and Oncology, State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, USA
| | - Zaheer Bukhari
- Pathology, State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, USA
| | - Elvira Neculiseanu
- Hematology and Oncology, State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, USA
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Tomazos I, Sierra JR, Johnston KM, Cheung A, Brodsky RA, Weitz IC. Cost burden of breakthrough hemolysis in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria receiving ravulizumab versus eculizumab. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 25:327-334. [PMID: 32856539 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2020.1807226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Although complement inhibition is highly effective, patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) may experience intravascular breakthrough hemolysis (BTH). Underlying causes may include elevated free C5, pregnancy, or non-pregnancy complement-activating conditions (e.g. infections). This study compared BTH-related resource utilization and costs in PNH patients treated with eculizumab versus ravulizumab. Methods: A cost model was developed using data from a targeted literature review and a survey of experienced clinicians. Costs associated with BTH episodes were calculated by cause and weighted by the proportion attributed to each cause and the cost of treating each episode. The model captured direct medical costs in 2018 US dollars. Annual BTH-related healthcare resource utilization was also calculated. Results: BTH episodes in the literature were commonly associated with elevated lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase, hemoglobinuria, transfusion needs, and/or recurrence of PNH symptoms. The majority of BTH management costs in eculizumab-treated patients related to changing from the approved dosing regimen following an episode of BTH, rather than acute management. No ongoing dosing changes were expected for ravulizumab-treated patients following episodes of BTH, substantially reducing its ongoing management costs. Resource utilization was greater for eculizumab-treated patients than ravulizumab-treated patients due to higher incidence of BTH, and risk of elevated free C5-related BTH. Total incremental cost was substantially lower for ravulizumab- vs eculizumab-treated patients ($407 vs $9379); results were consistent when pregnant women were not included ($386 vs $3472). Conclusion: Overall resource use and costs for BTH are estimated to be lower for PNH patients receiving ravulizumab compared with eculizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Antoinette Cheung
- Broadstreet Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert A Brodsky
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ilene C Weitz
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Traub J, Husseini L, Weber MS. B Cells and Antibodies as Targets of Therapeutic Intervention in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:37. [PMID: 33419217 DOI: 10.3390/ph14010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The first description of neuromyelitis optica by Eugène Devic and Fernand Gault dates back to the 19th century, but only the discovery of aquaporin-4 autoantibodies in a major subset of affected patients in 2004 led to a fundamentally revised disease concept: Neuromyelits optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are now considered autoantibody-mediated autoimmune diseases, bringing the pivotal pathogenetic role of B cells and plasma cells into focus. Not long ago, there was no approved medication for this deleterious disease and off-label therapies were the only treatment options for affected patients. Within the last years, there has been a tremendous development of novel therapies with diverse treatment strategies: immunosuppression, B cell depletion, complement factor antagonism and interleukin-6 receptor blockage were shown to be effective and promising therapeutic interventions. This has led to the long-expected official approval of eculizumab in 2019 and inebilizumab in 2020. In this article, we review current pathogenetic concepts in NMOSD with a focus on the role of B cells and autoantibodies as major contributors to the propagation of these diseases. Lastly, by highlighting promising experimental and future treatment options, we aim to round up the current state of knowledge on the therapeutic arsenal in NMOSD.
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Abstract
Introduction: Eculizumab, which is indicated to treat patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), is proven to decrease intravascular hemolysis and thrombosis and improve survival. Ravulizumab is a long-acting, second-generation complement component 5 (C5) inhibitor designed to alleviate the burden of the eculizumab treatment schedule and reduce the frequency of breakthrough hemolysis. As the clinical benefits of these treatments have been emphasized, their safety also should be considered. Areas covered: This article reviews safety data for the current approved PNH treatments from published articles about eculizumab and ravulizumab in patients with PNH. Special settings (pregnancy, pediatrics, long-term safety of continued eculizumab treatment, and extravascular hemolysis) are also discussed. Expert opinion: In phase 3 trials, eculizumab and ravulizumab were found to be safe and well tolerated. In addition, 10 years of experience with eculizumab provided evidence that mitigates initial concerns about infectious events. However, to minimize meningococcal infections, vaccination and close monitoring remain essential. Because extravascular hemolysis limits eculizumab efficacy in some patients, continued investigation of proximal complement inhibitors is warranted to obviate this mechanism. Long-term safety data for ravulizumab treatment are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Eun Lee
- Department of Hematology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Wook Lee
- Department of Hematology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea , Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Ariceta G, Dixon BP, Kim SH, Kapur G, Mauch T, Ortiz S, Vallee M, Denker AE, Kang HG, Greenbaum LA. The long-acting C5 inhibitor, ravulizumab, is effective and safe in pediatric patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome naïve to complement inhibitor treatment. Kidney Int 2020; 100:225-237. [PMID: 33307104 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2020.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ravulizumab, a long-acting complement C5 inhibitor engineered from eculizumab, allows extending maintenance dosing from every 2-3 weeks to every 4-8 weeks depending on bodyweight. Here, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of ravulizumab in complement inhibitor-naïve children (under 18 years) with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. In this phase III, single-arm trial, ravulizumab was administered every eight weeks in patients 20 kg and over, and four weeks in patients under 20 kg. The primary endpoint was a complete thrombotic microangiopathy response (normalization of platelet count and lactate dehydrogenase, and a 25% or more improvement in serum creatinine) through 26 weeks. Secondary endpoints included change in hematologic parameters and kidney function. 18 patients with a median age of 5.2 years were evaluated. At baseline, symptoms of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome outside the kidney were present in 72.2% of patients and 38.9% had been in intensive care. Baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate was 22 mL/min/1.73 m2. By week 26, 77.8% of patients achieved a complete thrombotic microangiopathy response; 94.4%, 88.9% and 83.3% of patients achieved platelet normalization, lactate dehydrogenase normalization and a 25% or more improvement in serum creatinine, respectively. By week 50, 94.4% patients had achieved a complete thrombotic microangiopathy response. Median improvement in platelet count was 246 and 213 x109/L through week 26 and week 50, respectively. The median increase above baseline in estimated glomerular filtration rate was 80 and 94 mL/min/1.73m2 through week 26 and week 50, respectively. No unexpected adverse events, deaths, or meningococcal infections occurred. Thus, ravulizumab rapidly improved hematologic and kidney parameters with no unexpected safety concerns in complement inhibitor-naïve children with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gema Ariceta
- Paediatric Nephrology Department, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Bradley P Dixon
- Renal Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Seong Heon Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Pusan National University Children's Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Gaurav Kapur
- Faculty of Pediatric Sciences, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Michigan, USA
| | - Teri Mauch
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA; Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Stephan Ortiz
- Clinical and Non-Clinical Pharmacology, Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marc Vallee
- Biostatistics, Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew E Denker
- Clinical Development, Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hee Gyung Kang
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Larry A Greenbaum
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Wang Y, Johnston K, Popoff E, Myren KJ, Cheung A, Faria C, Tomazos I. A US cost-minimization model comparing ravulizumab versus eculizumab for the treatment of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. J Med Econ 2020; 23:1503-1515. [PMID: 33001704 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2020.1831519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Ravulizumab, engineered from eculizumab, provides sustained C5 inhibition in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) while reducing dosing frequency (every 8 vs 2 weeks, respectively). Treatment choice often carries significant financial implications. This study compared the economic consequences of ravulizumab and eculizumab for treating aHUS. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cost-minimization model compared direct medical costs for ravulizumab and eculizumab in treating aHUS, assuming equivalent efficacy and safety, and took a US payer perspective, a lifetime horizon, and a 3.0% cost discount rate. The base case modeled adult and pediatric treatment-naïve populations, with characteristics based on clinical trials, and treatment patterns (duration, discontinuation, re-initiation) derived from eculizumab studies with long-term follow-up. Treatment costs (2019 US$) were based on wholesale drug acquisition costs, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid fee schedules, and published disease management studies. Sensitivity analyses were conducted by adjusting relevant variables. RESULTS Ravulizumab provided lifetime per-patient cost reductions (discounted) of 32.4% and 35.5% vs eculizumab in adult and pediatric base cases, respectively. Total costs for ravulizumab vs eculizumab were $12,148,748 and $17,979,007, respectively, for adults, and $11,587,832 and $17,959,814, respectively, for children. Pre-discontinuation treatment contributed the largest proportion of total costs for ravulizumab (94.8% and 88.0%) and eculizumab (94.8% and 87.8%) in adults and children, respectively. Across sensitivity analyses, ravulizumab provided cost reductions vs eculizumab. LIMITATIONS The model included several typical assumptions. Base case patients with more severe stages of chronic kidney disease were assumed not to discontinue treatment, nor to experience an excess mortality risk in either treatment arm, which may not reflect real-world clinical observations. Additionally, rebates and discounts on medication acquisition or administration were not considered. CONCLUSIONS In US patients with aHUS, ravulizumab provided cost reductions of 32.4-35.5% vs eculizumab, with a reduced dosing frequency for ravulizumab. The magnitude of reductions was consistent across sensitivity analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Health Economics & Outcomes Research, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Karl-Johan Myren
- Health Economics & Outcomes Research, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Claudio Faria
- Health Economics & Outcomes Research, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ioannis Tomazos
- Health Economics & Outcomes Research, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Boston, MA, USA
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Schrezenmeier H, Kulasekararaj A, Mitchell L, Sicre de Fontbrune F, Devos T, Okamoto S, Wells R, Rottinghaus ST, Liu P, Ortiz S, Lee JW, Socié G. One-year efficacy and safety of ravulizumab in adults with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria naïve to complement inhibitor therapy: open-label extension of a randomized study. Ther Adv Hematol 2020; 11:2040620720966137. [PMID: 33178408 PMCID: PMC7592174 DOI: 10.1177/2040620720966137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Ravulizumab, the only long-acting complement C5 inhibitor for adults with
paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), demonstrated non-inferiority to
eculizumab after 26 weeks of treatment in complement inhibitor-naïve
patients during a phase III randomized controlled trial. We present
open-label extension results with up to 52 weeks of treatment. Methods: Patients assigned to ravulizumab every 8 weeks (q8w) or eculizumab every
2 weeks during the randomized primary evaluation period received ravulizumab
q8w during the 26-week extension. Efficacy endpoints were lactate
dehydrogenase (LDH) normalization, transfusion avoidance, breakthrough
hemolysis (BTH), LDH levels, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness
Therapy (FACIT)-Fatigue scale, and stabilized hemoglobin. Serum free C5
levels and safety were assessed. Outcomes as of the data cut-off (4
September 2018) were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results: Overall, 124 patients continued ravulizumab, and 119 switched from eculizumab
to ravulizumab. During the extension, 43.5% and 40.3% of patients in the
ravulizumab–ravulizumab and eculizumab–ravulizumab arms, respectively,
achieved LDH normalization; 76.6% and 67.2% avoided transfusion. BTH
decreased in the eculizumab–ravulizumab arm; no events were associated with
free C5 ⩾0.5 μg/mL while receiving ravulizumab. Overall, 73.4% and 65.5% of
patients in the ravulizumab–ravulizumab and eculizumab–ravulizumab arms,
respectively, achieved stabilized hemoglobin. Similar proportions of
patients achieved ⩾3-point improvement in FACIT-Fatigue at week 52
(ravulizumab–ravulizumab, 64.5%; eculizumab–ravulizumab, 57.1%). All
patients maintained free C5 <0.5 μg/mL during the ravulizumab extension,
including those who experienced C5 excursions ⩾0.5 μg/mL while receiving
eculizumab during the primary evaluation period. Adverse events were
comparable between groups and decreased over time. Conclusion: In adult, complement inhibitor–naïve patients with PNH, ravulizumab q8w for
up to 52 weeks demonstrated durable efficacy and was well tolerated, with
complete and sustained free C5 inhibition and a decreased incidence of BTH
with no events associated with loss of free C5 control. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT02946463
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Affiliation(s)
- Hubert Schrezenmeier
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University of Ulm and Institute for Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Austin Kulasekararaj
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital, NIHR/Wellcome King's Clinical Research Facility, London, UK
| | - Lindsay Mitchell
- Department of Haematology, University Hospital Monklands, Lanarkshire, UK
| | - Flore Sicre de Fontbrune
- Service d'Hématologie Greffe, Centre de Référence Aplasie Médullaire, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Timothy Devos
- Department of Hematology, University Hospitals Leuven and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Molecular Immunology (Rega Institute), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Shinichiro Okamoto
- Division of Hematology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Richard Wells
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Peng Liu
- Biostatistics, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephan Ortiz
- Clinical Pharmacology, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jong Wook Lee
- Department of Hematology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Gérard Socié
- Hematology Transplantation, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence-based treatment options for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) patients are beginning to enter the market. Where previously, there was only the exclusive use of empiric and off-label immunosuppressants in this rare and devastating central nervous system autoimmune disease. AREAS COVERED In accordance to expanding pathogenetic insights, drugs in phase II and III clinical trials are presented in the context of the current treatment situation for acute attacks and immunopreventative strategies in NMOSD. Some such drugs are the 2019-approved complement inhibitor eculizumab, other compounds in late development include its modified successor ravulizumab, IL-6 receptor antibody satralizumab, CD19 targeting antibody inebilizumab and the TACI-Fc fusion protein telitacicept. EXPERT OPINION Moving from broad immunosuppression to tailored treatment strategies, the prospects for efficient NMOSD therapy are positive. For the first time in this disease, class I treatment evidence is available, but long-term data will be necessary to confirm the overall promising study results of the compounds close to approval. While drug development still centers around AQP4 antibody seropositive patients, current and future research requires consideration of possible diverging treatment demands for the smaller group of seronegative patients and patients with presence of MOG antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankelien Duchow
- Neurocure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health , Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine , Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudia Chien
- Neurocure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health , Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health , Berlin, Germany.,Department for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy - Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health , Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Neurocure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health , Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine , Berlin, Germany
| | - Judith Bellmann-Strobl
- Neurocure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health , Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine , Berlin, Germany
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the efficacy and safety of caplacizumab and ravulizumab for thrombotic microangiopathy. DATA SOURCES A literature search from January 2011 to May 2020 was performed using the key terms caplacizumab (or ALX-0681), ravulizumab (or ALXN1210), atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP), and thrombotic microangiopathy. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION Relevant clinical trials and articles in the English language were identified and reviewed. DATA SYNTHESIS aTTP and aHUS are syndromes of thrombotic microangiopathy manifested by excessive platelet aggregation and endothelial cell destruction, with subsequent thrombocytopenia, hemolysis, and multiorgan failure. Current standard therapy for aTTP is therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) to remove von Willebrand factor (vWF) multimers and anti-ADAMTS13 autoantibodies. As an adjunctive therapy to TPE, caplacizumab inhibits binding of vWF to platelets and prevents new microthrombi formation. It reduces thromboembolic event rate and days of TPE and delays relapse. Headache and epistaxis were the most common adverse events. aHUS develops because of dysregulation of the alternative complement pathway, followed by constitutive activation of complement components that causes thrombosis and end-organ damage. Short-term initial evaluation with ravulizumab, a long-acting complement inhibitor, demonstrates rapid hematological and renal improvement, with sustained complement inhibition and tolerable adverse effects. RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE This review describes the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, cost consideration, and clinical studies for caplacizumab and ravulizumab for thrombotic microangiopathy. Place of therapy is also discussed. CONCLUSION Targeted therapies with caplacizumab and ravulizumab are expected to reduce the burden of exacerbation, refractory disease, recurrence, and possibly death for thrombotic microangiopathy.
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Smith K, Pace A, Ortiz S, Kazani S, Rottinghaus S. A Phase 3 Open-label, Randomized, Controlled Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Intravenously Administered Ravulizumab Compared with Best Supportive Care in Patients with COVID-19 Severe Pneumonia, Acute Lung Injury, or Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A structured summary of a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials 2020; 21:639. [PMID: 32660611 PMCID: PMC7355517 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-04548-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Primary Objective • To evaluate the effect of ravulizumab, a long-acting complement (C5) inhibitor plus best supportive care (BSC) compared with BSC alone on the survival of patients with COVID-19. Secondary Objectives • Number of days free of mechanical ventilation at Day 29 • Duration of intensive care unit stay at Day 29 • Change from baseline in Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score at Day 29 • Change from baseline in peripheral capillary oxygen saturation/ fraction of inspired oxygen (SpO2 /FiO2) at Day 29 • Duration of hospitalization at Day 29 • Survival (based on all-cause mortality) at Day 60 and Day 90 Safety • Incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events and treatment-emergent serious adverse events. PK/PD/Immunogenicity • Change in serum ravulizumab concentrations over time • Change in serum free and total C5 concentrations over time • Incidence and titer of anti-ALXN1210 antibodies Biomarkers • Change in absolute level of soluble biomarkers in blood associated with complement activation, inflammatory processes, and hypercoagulable states over time Exploratory • Incidence of progression to renal failure requiring dialysis at Day 29 • Time to clinical improvement (based on a modified 6-point ordinal scale) over 29 days • SF-12 Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores at Day 29 (or discharge), Day 60, and Day 90 • EuroQol 5-dimension 5-level (EQ-5D-5L) scores at Day 29 (or discharge), Day 60, and Day 90 Trial design This is a multicenter Phase 3, open-label, randomized, controlled, study. The study is being conducted in acute care hospital settings in the United States, United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, and Japan. Participants Male or female patients at least 18 years of age, weighing ≥ 40 kg, admitted to a designated hospital facility for treatment will be screened for eligibility in this study. Key Inclusion criteria • Confirmed diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection (eg, via polymerase chain reaction [PCR] and/or antibody test) presenting as severe COVID-19 requiring hospitalization • Severe pneumonia, acute lung injury, or ARDS confirmed by computed tomography (CT) or X-ray at Screening or within the 3 days prior to Screening, as part of the patient’s routine clinical care • Respiratory distress requiring mechanical ventilation, which can be either invasive (requiring endotracheal intubation) or non-invasive (with continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP] or bilevel positive airway pressure [BiPAP]) Key Exclusion criteria • Patient is not expected to survive for more than 24 hours • Patient is on invasive mechanical ventilation with intubation for more than 48 hours prior to Screening • Severe pre-existing cardiac disease (ie, NYHA Class 3 or Class 4, acute coronary syndrome, or persistent ventricular tachyarrhythmias) • Patient has an unresolved Neisseria meningitidis infection Excluded medications and therapies • Current treatment with a complement inhibitor • Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) within 4 weeks prior to randomization on Day 1 Excluded prior/concurrent clinical study experience • Treatment with investigational therapy in a clinical study within 30 days before randomization, or within 5 half-lives of that investigational therapy, whichever is greater • Exceptions a. Investigational therapies will be allowed if received as part of best supportive care through an expanded access protocol or emergency approval for the treatment of COVID-19. b. Investigational antiviral therapies (such as remdesivir) will be allowed even if received as part of a clinical study. Intervention and comparator The study consists of a Screening Period of up to 3 days, a Primary Evaluation Period of 4 weeks, a final assessment at Day 29, and a Follow-up Period of 8 weeks. For patients randomized to ravulizumab plus BSC, a weight-based dose of ravulizumab (≥40 to < 60 kg/2400 mg, 60 to < 100 kg/2700 mg, ≥ 100 kg/3000 mg) will be administered on Day 1. On Day 5 and Day 10, additional doses of 600 mg (≥40 to <60 kg) or 900 mg (>60 kg) ravulizumab will be administered and on Day 15 patients will receive 900 mg ravulizumab. There is no active or placebo comparator in this open-label clinical trial. The total duration of each patient’s participation is anticipated to be approximately 3 months. Main outcomes The primary efficacy outcome of this study is survival (based on all-cause mortality) at Day 29. Randomisation Patients will be randomized in a 2:1 ratio (ravulizumab plus BSC:BSC alone). Randomization will be stratified by intubated or not intubated on Day 1. Computer-generated randomization lists will be prepared by a third party under the direction of the sponsor. Investigators, or designees, will enrol patients and then obtain randomization codes using an interactive voice/web response system. The block size will be kept concealed so that investigators cannot select patients for a particular treatment assignment. Blinding (masking): This is an open-label study. Numbers to be randomised (sample size): Approximately 270 patients will be randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to ravulizumab plus BSC (n=180) or BSC alone (n=90). Trial status Protocol Number: ALXN1210-COV-305 Original Protocol: 09 Apr 2020 Protocol Amendment 1 (Global): 13 Apr 2020 Protocol Amendment 2 (Global): 17 Apr 2020 Protocol Amendment 3 (Global): 09 Jun 2020 Recruitment is currently ongoing. Recruitment was initiated on 11 May 2020. We expect recruitment to be completed by 30 Nov 2020. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov: Protocol Registry Number: NCT04369469; First posted; 30 Apr 2020 EU Clinical Trials Register: EudraCT Number: https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/search?query=ALXN1210-COV-305, Start date: 07 May 2020 Full protocol The full redacted protocol is attached as an additional file, accessible from the Trials website (Additional file 1). In the interest in expediting dissemination of this material, the familiar formatting has been eliminated; this Letter serves as a summary of the key elements of the full protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisha Smith
- Medical Writing, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amy Pace
- Quantitative Sciences, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephan Ortiz
- Clinical Pharmacology, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shamsah Kazani
- Department of Clinical Development Sciences, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 121 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA, 02210, USA
| | - Scott Rottinghaus
- Department of Clinical Development Sciences, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 121 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA, 02210, USA.
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50
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Peffault de Latour R, Brodsky RA, Ortiz S, Risitano AM, Jang JH, Hillmen P, Kulagin AD, Kulasekararaj AG, Rottinghaus ST, Aguzzi R, Gao X, Wells RA, Szer J. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of ravulizumab and eculizumab on complement component 5 in adults with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria: results of two phase 3 randomised, multicentre studies. Br J Haematol 2020; 191:476-485. [PMID: 32449174 PMCID: PMC7687070 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.16711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Ravulizumab, a novel long‐acting complement component 5 (C5) inhibitor administered every 8 weeks (q8w), was non‐inferior to eculizumab for all efficacy outcomes in two randomised, open‐label, phase 3 trials in C5 inhibitor‐naïve (Study 301) and eculizumab‐experienced (Study 302) adult patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH). This pre‐specified analysis characterised ravulizumab pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD; free C5 levels), and PD differences between medications (Study 301, n = 246; Study 302, n = 195). Ravulizumab PK parameters were determined using non‐compartmental analysis. Serum free C5 was quantified with a Gyros‐based fluorescence assay (ravulizumab) and an electrochemiluminescence ligand‐binding assay (eculizumab). Ravulizumab PK parameters were numerically comparable in both studies; the median time to maximum concentrations ranged from 2·3 to 2·8 and 2·3 to 2·6 h in studies 301 and 302, respectively. Ravulizumab steady‐state serum concentrations were achieved immediately after the first dose and sustained throughout treatment. For ravulizumab, the mean (SD) post hoc terminal elimination half‐life was 49·7 (8·9) days. Serum free C5 concentrations <0·5 µg/ml were achieved after the first ravulizumab dose and sustained throughout treatment in both studies. In a minority of patients, free C5 concentrations <0·5 µg/ml were not consistently achieved with eculizumab in either study. Ravulizumab q8w was more consistent in providing immediate, complete, sustained C5 inhibition than eculizumab every‐2‐weeks in patients with PNH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Régis Peffault de Latour
- French Reference Center for Aplastic Anemia and PNH Hematology-Bone Marrow Transplantation, Hôpital Saint-Louis AP-HP, Paris, France.,Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Robert A Brodsky
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Antonio M Risitano
- Hematology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Jun H Jang
- Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Peter Hillmen
- Department of Haematology, St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Alexander D Kulagin
- Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Austin G Kulasekararaj
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital, NIHR/Wellcome King's Clinical Research Facility, London, UK
| | | | | | - Xiang Gao
- Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard A Wells
- Division of Medical Oncology and Haematology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeff Szer
- Clinical Haematology at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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