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Yang J, Sun Y, Zhou X, Zhang D, Xu Z, Cao J, Fan B. Risk of secondary autoimmune diseases with alemtuzumab treatment for multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1343971. [PMID: 38690271 PMCID: PMC11058189 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1343971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose The objective of this study is to evaluate the risk of secondary autoimmune diseases in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients treated with alemtuzumab (ALZ) through a meta-analysis. Methods PubMed, Web of Science, OVID, EMBASE, and Cochrane central register of controlled trials were searched. Information and data were screened and extracted by 2 researchers. The obtained data were analyzed using the R software meta package. Quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The causes of heterogeneity were analyzed using subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger's test. Results The search retrieved a total of 3530 papers from the databases. After screening, a total of 37 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis results indicate that the pooled incidence rate of overall secondary autoimmune events (SAEs) in the included studies was 0.2824 [0.2348, 0.3300] (I²=94%, p<0.01). The overall incidence of autoimmune thyroid events (ATE) was 0.2257 [0.1810, 0.2703] (I²=94%, p<0.01). Among them, the rate of serious autoimmune thyroid events (SATE) was 0.0541 [0.0396, 0.0687] (I²=0%, p=0.44). The incidence rates of different thyroid events were as follows: Graves' disease (GD), 0.2266 [0.1632, 0.2900] (I²=83%, p<0.01); Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT), 0.0844 [0.0000, 0.2262] (I²=81%, p=0.02); Hashimoto thyroiditis with hypothyroidism (HTwH), 0.0499 [0.0058, 0.0940] (I²=37%, p=0.21); fluctuating thyroid dysfunction (FTD), 0.0219 [0.0015, 0.0424] (I²=0%, p=0.40); transient thyroiditis (TT), 0.0178 [0.0062, 0.0295] (I²=0%, p=0.94). The overall incidence of hematological events was 0.0431 [0.0274, 0.0621] (I²=70%, p<0.01). The incidence rates from high to low were as follows: lymphopenia, 0.0367 [0.0000, 0.0776] (I²=81%, p=0.02); Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), 0.0258 [0.0199, 0.0323] (I²=25%, p=0.15); Hemolytic anemia (HA), 0.0177 [0.0081, 0.0391] (I²=29%, p=0.23); pancytopenia, 0.0136 [0.0000, 0.0314] (I²=0%, p=0.67); Neutropenia, 0.0081 [0.0000, 0.0183] (I²=0%, p=0.42). After excluding thyroid and hematological diseases, the combined incidence of other related SAEs was 0.0061 [0.0014, 0.0109] (I²=50%, p=0.02). The incidence of each disease ranked from highest to lowest as: skin psoriasis (SP), 0.0430 [0.0000, 0.0929] (I²=0%, p=0.57); alopecia areata (AA), 0.0159 [0.0024, 0.0372] (I²=19%, p=0.29); vitiligo, 0.0134 [0.0044, 0.0223] (I²=0%, p=0.81); inflammatory atrichia (IA), 0.0103 [0.0000, 0.0232] (I²=0%, p=0.43); chronic urticaria (CU), 0.0107 [0.0000, 0.0233] (I²=0%, p=0.60); and nephropathy, 0.0051 [0.0000, 0.0263] (I²=62%, p=0.02). Conclusion The occurrence of secondary autoimmune diseases in patients with MS treated with ALZ is noteworthy, particularly in the form of thyroid events and hematological events. Clinicians should monitor the overall condition of patients promptly for early management and avoid delayed diagnosis and treatment. Systematic review registration inplasy.com/inplasy-2024-4-0048/, identifier INPLASY202440048.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianguo Yang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuying Sun
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xinpeng Zhou
- Rheumatology and Immunology Department, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Rheumatology and Immunology Department, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ziqi Xu
- Rheumatology and Immunology Department, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jiaojiao Cao
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Bing Fan
- Rheumatology and Immunology Department, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Sun Y, Liu Z, Yang J, Jia Q, Sun J, Wang L, Liang F, Song S, Wang K, Zhou X. Risk of secondary immune thrombocytopenia following alemtuzumab treatment for multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1375615. [PMID: 38660089 PMCID: PMC11039963 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1375615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Object The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of secondary immune thrombocytopenia in multiple sclerosis patients treated with alemtuzumab through a meta-analysis. Methods We searched databases including PubMed, Web of Science, OVID and EMBASE for studies reporting changes in platelet levels in MS patients treated with alemtuzumab from their inception until May 2023 and performed a meta-analysis. Information and data were screened and extracted by two researchers. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were established according to the PICOS principle. The obtained data were analyzed using the R software meta package and the quality assessment was conducted using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The causes of heterogeneity were analyzed using subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger test. Results A total of 15 studies were included, encompassing 1,729 multiple sclerosis patients. Meta-analysis of overall secondary ITP in the included studies yielded a pooled rate of 0.0243. The overall incidence of secondary autoimmune events was 0.2589. In addition, subgroup analysis was applied using study regions and study types. The results showed that the incidence rate of secondary ITP in Europe was about 0.0207, while the incidence of autoimmune events (AEs) was 0.2158. The incidence rate of secondary ITP and AEs in North America was significantly higher than in Europe, being 0.0352 and 0.2622. And the analysis showed that the incidence rates of secondary ITP and AEs in prospective studies were 0.0391 and 0.1771. Retrospective studies had an incidence rate of secondary ITP at 2.16, and an incidence rate of AEs at 0.2743. Conclusion This study found that there was a certain incidence of Immune thrombocytopenia in multiple sclerosis patients after treatment with alemtuzumab. Alemtuzumab may have some interference with platelet levels, and the mechanism may be associated with Treg cells. But due to the absence of a control group in the included literature, we cannot determine the specific impact of Alemtuzumab on platelet levels in patients with MS. Therefore, clinical physicians should perform a comprehensive assessment of the patient's benefit-to-risk ratio before initiating alemtuzumab. Systematic Review Registration Inplasy website, DOI number is 10.37766/inplasy2024.3.0007.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Sun
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhimei Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jianguo Yang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Qingqing Jia
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jinglong Sun
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Fengjiao Liang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shiyuan Song
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Kaixi Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xia Zhou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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Costa-Frossard França L, Meca Lallana V, Labiano-Fontcuberta A, Blasco R, Monreal E, Martínez Ginés ML, Aguirre C, Sabin Muñoz J, Sainz de la Maza S, Cuello JP, Díaz-Pérez C, Chico García JL, Lozano Ros A, Rodríguez Jorge F, Martínez Martínez S, García Domínguez JM. Real-World Retrospective Analysis of Alemtuzumab Outcomes in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: The LEMCAM Study. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:231-238. [PMID: 38418770 PMCID: PMC10920415 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-024-01066-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alemtuzumab is a high-efficacy treatment approved for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Although clinical trials and observational studies are consistent in showing its efficacy and manageable safety profile, further studies under clinical practice conditions are needed to further support its clinical use. OBJECTIVE The aim of this observational retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of alemtuzumab to add to the current real-world evidence on the drug. METHODS A cohort of 115 adult patients with RRMS treated with alemtuzumab between 2014 and 2020 was retrospectively followed up in five centers in Spain. Analysis included annualized relapse rate (ARR), 6-month confirmed disability worsening (CDW), 6-month confirmed disability improvement (CDI), radiological activity, no evidence of disease activity (NEDA-3), and safety signals. Given the different follow-up periods among participants, ARR was calculated using the person-years method. CDI was defined as a ≥ 1.0-point decrease in Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score assessed in patients with a baseline EDSS score ≥ 2.0 confirmed 6 months apart. CDW was defined as a ≥ 1.0-point increase in EDSS score assessed in patients with a baseline EDSS score ≥ 1.0 (≥ 1.5 if baseline EDSS = 0), confirmed 6 months apart. RESULTS ARR decreased from 1.9 (95% confidence interval 1.60-2.33) in the year prior to alemtuzumab initiation to 0.28 (0.17-0.37) after 1 year of treatment (87% reduction), and to 0.22 (0.13-0.35) after the second year. Over the entire follow-up period, ARR was 0.24 (0.18-0.30). At year 1, 75% of patients showed no signs of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) activity and 70% at year 5. One percent of patients experienced 6-month CDW at year 1, 2.6% at year 2, 7.4% at year 3, and no patients over years 4 and 5. A total of 7.7% of patients achieved 6-month CDI in year 1, 3.6% in year 2, and maintained it at years 3 and 4. Most patients achieved annual NEDA-3: year 1, 72%; year 2, 79%; year 3, 80%; year 4, 89%; year 5, 75%. Infusion-related reactions were observed in 95% of patients and infections in 74%. Thyroid disorders occurred in 30% of patients, and only three patients developed immune thrombocytopenia. No cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy were reported. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that alemtuzumab reduced the relapse rate and disability worsening in real-world clinical practice, with many patients achieving and sustaining NEDA-3 over time. The safety profile of alemtuzumab was consistent with previous findings, and no new or unexpected safety signals were observed. As this was an observational and retrospective study, the main limitation of not having all variables comprehensively available for all patients should be considered when interpreting results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Virginia Meca Lallana
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Rosario Blasco
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Enric Monreal
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
- IRYCIS (Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research), Madrid, Spain
- REEM (Spanish Network of Multiple Sclerosis), Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Clara Aguirre
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Sabin Muñoz
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Sainz de la Maza
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
- IRYCIS (Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research), Madrid, Spain
- REEM (Spanish Network of Multiple Sclerosis), Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Pablo Cuello
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Díaz-Pérez
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Alberto Lozano Ros
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
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Coles AJ, Achiron A, Traboulsee A, Singer BA, Pozzilli C, Oreja-Guevara C, Giovannoni G, Comi G, Freedman MS, Ziemssen T, Shiota D, Rawlings AM, Wong AT, Chirieac M, Montalban X. Safety and efficacy with alemtuzumab over 13 years in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: final results from the open-label TOPAZ study. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2023; 16:17562864231194823. [PMID: 37745914 PMCID: PMC10515516 DOI: 10.1177/17562864231194823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives Alemtuzumab demonstrated superior efficacy versus subcutaneous interferon (IFN) beta-1a in participants with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in the 2-year CARE-MS I and II trials. Efficacy was maintained in the 4-year CARE-MS extension, during which alemtuzumab-treated participants ('alemtuzumab-only') could receive additional courses upon disease activity, and IFN-treated participants switched to alemtuzumab ('IFN-alemtuzumab'). Participants who completed the CARE-MS extension could enroll in the open-label TOPAZ study which assessed safety and efficacy for 5-7 years (11-13 years after alemtuzumab/IFN initiation). Methods Participants received additional alemtuzumab courses as needed. Assessments included adverse events (AEs; primary outcome), annualized relapse rate (ARR), 6-month confirmed disability worsening [CDW; ⩾1.0-point Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score increase or ⩾1.5 if baseline EDSS = 0], and 6-month confirmed disease improvement [CDI; >1.0-point EDSS decrease (baseline score ⩾2.0)]. Results 43.5% of alemtuzumab-only participants from CARE-MS II and 54.2% from CARE-MS I received no additional alemtuzumab courses; 30.0% and 20.9%, respectively, received one additional course (the median). Incidences of AEs, including thyroid AEs and infections, declined over time. The safety profile of alemtuzumab was similar for participants who received zero, one, or two additional courses. For CARE-MS II participants, who had inadequate response to previous treatment, ARR remained low during Years 3-13 for the alemtuzumab-only [0.17; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.15-0.20] and IFN-alemtuzumab (0.14; 0.11-0.17) groups. At Year 11, the proportions of participants who were either free from CDW or who had CDI were higher in the alemtuzumab-only group (58% and 49%, respectively) than in the IFN-alemtuzumab group (51% and 37%). For CARE-MS I participants, who were previously treatment-naïve, clinical outcomes remained improved, and no between-group differences were apparent. Conclusion Safety risks associated with alemtuzumab treatment declined over time. Clinical benefits were maintained up to 11-13 years, and most participants did not require more than one additional course. Clinicaltrialsgov identifiers NCT00530348; NCT00548405; NCT00930553; NCT02255656.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alasdair J. Coles
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Box 165, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Anat Achiron
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Anthony Traboulsee
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Barry A. Singer
- The MS Center for Innovations in Care, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Carlo Pozzilli
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos, Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) and IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Giancarlo Comi
- Casa di Cura del Policlinico, Università Vita Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Mark S. Freedman
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Neurological Clinic, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Dresden, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Xavier Montalban
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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Agrawal A, Srivastava MVP, Bhatia R, Goyal V, Singh MB, Vishnu VY, Prabhakar A. A Real-World Experience of Azathioprine Versus First-Line Disease-Modifying Therapy in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis-A Prospective Cohort Study. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1249. [PMID: 37759850 PMCID: PMC10526455 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13091249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Azathioprine (AZA) has demonstrated efficacy in multiple randomized control trials (RCTs) for Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). However, we still need comparative real-world data with other first-line disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). We aimed to assess AZA's effectiveness regarding relapses, disability progression, time to the first relapse, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) activity, and safety compared with other approved first-line DMTs in an Indian population in a real-world setting. We conducted a single-center prospective study of treatment-naive RRMS patients between 2017 and 2019. We evaluated the effects of AZA and other approved DMTs on clinical and radiological measures. Among 192 eligible patients (F:M ratio 2.84:1), 68 patients (35.4%) were on AZA, 68 patients (35.4%) were on dimethyl fumarate (DMF), 32 patients (16.7%) on interferon (IFN beta-1a), and 16 patients (8.3%) on teriflunomide (TFL). Four treatment groups were comparable: AZA v/s DMF v/s TFL v/s IFN beta-1a. In primary outcomes, there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of change in the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score at three months (p-value = 0.169), six months (p-value = 0.303), 12 months (p-value = 0.082), and 24 months (p-value = 0.639), the number of relapses (p-value = 0.229), and time to the first relapse (p-value > 0.05 in all groups). In the secondary outcome, there was no significant difference between the treatment groups on serial MRI parameters used according to "Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Multiple Sclerosis" (MAGNIMS) 2016 criteria (p-value > 0.05). In safety outcomes, leukopenia was significantly more common in the AZA group (p-value = 0.025), flu-like symptoms (p-value = 0.0001), and injection site reactions (p-value = 0.035) were significantly more common in the IFN beta-1a group. Our study suggests AZA is as effective as other approved DMTs and a good alternative as a first-line treatment for multiple sclerosis's clinical and radiological activity in real-world settings on short follow-up. Based on these results, more randomized controlled trials of AZA v/s DMF or other DMTs are needed for more robust outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpit Agrawal
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India; (A.A.); (R.B.); (V.G.); (M.B.S.); (V.Y.V.)
| | - M. V. Padma Srivastava
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India; (A.A.); (R.B.); (V.G.); (M.B.S.); (V.Y.V.)
| | - Rohit Bhatia
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India; (A.A.); (R.B.); (V.G.); (M.B.S.); (V.Y.V.)
| | - Vinay Goyal
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India; (A.A.); (R.B.); (V.G.); (M.B.S.); (V.Y.V.)
| | - Mamta Bhushan Singh
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India; (A.A.); (R.B.); (V.G.); (M.B.S.); (V.Y.V.)
| | - Venugopalan Y. Vishnu
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India; (A.A.); (R.B.); (V.G.); (M.B.S.); (V.Y.V.)
| | - Anuj Prabhakar
- Department of Neuroradiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 110029, India;
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López-Real AM, Gonzalez I, Solar DM, Oterino A, Costa E, Pato A, Llaneza MA, García-Estévez DA, Rodriguez-Regal A, Rodriguez M, Peña J. Alemtuzumab treatment in real clinical practice: Experience in a multicenter cohort. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 75:104762. [PMID: 37229800 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alemtuzumab is a highly effective treatment for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), but in recent years safety-related concerns had emerged due to description of novel serious side effects not registered in CARE-MS I and CARE-MS II phase 3 studies, nor in TOPAZ extension study. Data about alemtuzumab use in real clinical practice are limited and based mainly on retrospective studies with small sample sizes. Therefore, more information about effectiveness and safety of alemtuzumab in this context is needed. METHODS A multicenter observational prospective study to investigate effectivity and safety of alemtuzumab in a real-world setting was performed. Primary endpoints were the change in annualized relapse rate (ARR), and in disability measured by EDSS score. Secondary endpoints were the cumulative probability of confirmed 6-month disability improvement and worsening. Disability worsening and disability improvement were considered when the EDSS score was increased or decreased, respectively, in 1 point if baseline EDSS score was <5.0, or in 0.5 point if baseline EDSS score was ≥5.5, confirmed over 6 months. Other secondary endpoint was the proportion of patients who achieved NEDA-3 status (absence of clinical relapses, disability EDSS progression, and MRI disease activity as depicted by new/enlarging T2 lesions or Gadolinium enhancing T1 lesions). Adverse events also were recorded. RESULTS A total of 195 RRMS patients (70% female) who started alemtuzumab treatment were included. Mean of follow-up was 2.38 years. Alemtuzumab significantly reduced the annualized relapse rate from baseline with risk reductions of 86%, 83.5%, and 84%, at 12, 24, and 36 months of follow-up respectively (Friedman test, p-value < 0.05 for all comparisons). Alemtuzumab also significantly reduced EDSS score over one and two years after starting alemtuzumab treatment (Friedman test, p-value<0.001 for both comparisons). A high proportion of patients presented confirmed 6-month stability or disability improvement (92%, 82%, and 79%, over 1, 2 and 3 years of follow-up respectively). The proportion of patients who retained NEDA-3 status at 12, 24 and 36 months were 61%, 49%, and 42%, respectively. Baseline characteristics associated with a lower probability of achieving NEDA-3 were younger age, sex female, high ARR, elevated number of previous treatments, and switch from a second line therapy. Infusion related reactions were the most frequent adverse event observed. The most common infections were urinary tract infections (50%), and upper respiratory tract infections (19%) over the 3 years of follow- up. Secondary thyroid autoimmunity was developed in 18.5% of patients. CONCLUSION Alemtuzumab has demonstrated in real clinical practice high effectiveness in controlling multiple sclerosis activity, and no unexpected adverse events were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - I Gonzalez
- Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Vigo, Spain
| | - D M Solar
- Hospital Universitario Cabueñes, Spain
| | - A Oterino
- Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Spain
| | - E Costa
- Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - A Pato
- Hospital Rivera Povisa. Vigo, Spain
| | - M A Llaneza
- Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol, Spain
| | | | | | - M Rodriguez
- Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti. Lugo, Spain
| | - J Peña
- Hospital Universitario San Agustín. Avilés, Spain
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Alroughani R, AlMojel M, Al-Hashel J, Ahmed SF. A real-life study of alemtuzumab in persons with multiple sclerosis: Kuwait's experience. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 74:104712. [PMID: 37054581 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alemtuzumab, a humanized anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody, has been approved as a treatment in persons with active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Real-world data in middle east is very limited. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of alemtuzumab in a real-world clinical setting. METHODS This observational, registry based study assessed persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) who were treated with alemtuzumab and completed at least follow up one year after second course. Baseline clinical and radiological characteristics within one year prior to alemtuzumab initiation were collected. The relapse rate, disability measures, radiological activity and adverse events at last follow-up visits were assessed. RESULTS Data of seventy-three persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) was analyzed, of which 53 (72.6%) were females. Mean age and mean disease duration were 34.25 ± 7.62 and 9.23 ± 6.20 years respectively. Alemtuzumab was started in 32 (43.8%) naïve patients due to highly active disease and in 25 (34.2%) (PwMS) who were on prior therapies and in 16 (22%) patients due to adverse events on prior medications. Mean follow-up period was 4 ± 1.67 years. In the last follow-up visits, most of our cohort was relapse free (79.5% vs. 17.8%; p < 0.001) compared to baseline before alemtuzumab treatment while mean EDSS score was reduced (2.21 ± 2.15 vs. 2.41 ± 1.85; p < 0.059). The proportion of PwMS who had MRI activity (new T2/ Gd-enhancing) lesions were significantly reduced compared to baseline (15.1% vs. 82.2%; p < 0.001). NEDA-3 was achieved in 57.5% of (PwMS). NEDA-3 was significantly better in naïve patients (78% versus. 41.5%; p < 0.002) and in patients with disease duration < 5 years, (82.6% v 43.2%; p < 0.002). Several adverse events such as infusion reactions (75.3%), autoimmune thyroiditis (16.4%) and glomerulonephritis (2.7%) were reported. CONCLUSION The effectiveness and safety profile of alemtuzumab in this cohort were consistent with data of clinical trials. Early initiation of Alemtuzumab is associated with favorable outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raed Alroughani
- Division of Neurology, Amiri Hospital, Arabian Gulf Street, Sharq 13041, Kuwait; MS Clinic, Ibn Sina Hospital, P.O. Box 25427, Safat 13115, Kuwait
| | - Malak AlMojel
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 24923, Safat 13110, Kuwait
| | - Jasem Al-Hashel
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 24923, Safat 13110, Kuwait; Department of Neurology, Ibn Sina Hospital, P.O. Box 25427, Safat 13115, Kuwait
| | - Samar Farouk Ahmed
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 24923, Safat 13110, Kuwait; Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Minia University, P.O. Box 61519, Minia 61111, Egypt.
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8
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Abstract
The multiple sclerosis (MS) neurotherapeutic landscape is rapidly evolving. New disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) with improved efficacy and safety, in addition to an expanding pipeline of agents with novel mechanisms, provide more options for patients with MS. While treatment of MS neuroinflammation is well tailored in the existing DMT armamentarium, concerted efforts are currently underway for identifying neuropathological targets and drug discovery for progressive MS. There is also ongoing research to develop agents for remyelination and neuroprotection. Further insights are needed to guide DMT initiation and sequencing as well as to determine the role of autologous stem cell transplantation in relapsing and progressive MS. This review provides a summary of these updates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moein Amin
- Cleveland Clinic, Department of Neurology, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Carrie M Hersh
- Cleveland Clinic, Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Las Vegas, NV 89106, USA
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9
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Raina P, Basu S, Goyal RK, Sahoo PK, Mathur R. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Comparing the Safety of Natalizumab, Ocrelizumab, and Alemtuzumab in Treating Relapsing–Remitting, Primary Progressive, and Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. J Pharmacol Pharmacother 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/0976500x221080225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Three monoclonal antibodies—natalizumab (NTZ), ocrelizumab (OCR), and alemtuzumab (ALM)—are the mainstays for the treatment of both relapsing and progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Here, their safety in patients with MS is analyzed and compared for rational use, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. All clinical studies published between 2016 and 2020 with the primary outcome of the occurrence of adverse events (AEs) with the use of NTZ, OCR, and ALM in the treatment of MS were systematically searched in the PubMed database. In this review, the percentage of patients reporting AEs was calculated and compared. The most common AEs associated with the use of NTZ, OCR, and ALM were infection and infestation. The percentage of patients reporting urinary tract infection, upper respiratory tract infection, and herpes was 16% using natalizumab, 7% using natalizumab and ocrelizumab, and 2% with ocrelizumab, respectively. The most common AEs, such as rashes, pyrexia, and influenza, were reported with ocrelizumab and alemtuzumab. Additionally, alemtuzumab was associated with immune thrombocytopenia (2%), respiratory infections (7%), and thyroid dysfunction (43%). All these data outcomes show that of the three monoclonal antibodies, natalizumab and ocrelizumab were associated with a reduced incidence of adverse events, making them a safer choice for MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Raina
- Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, DPSRU, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, India
| | - Somnath Basu
- Assistant Drug Controller (India), Central Drug Standard Control Organisation, Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi, India
| | - Ramesh K Goyal
- Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, DPSRU, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, India
| | - Pravat K Sahoo
- Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, DPSRU, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, India
| | - Rajani Mathur
- Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, DPSRU, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, India
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10
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Gabelić T, Barun B, Adamec I, Krbot Skorić M, Habek M. Product review on MAbs (alemtuzumab and ocrelizumab) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:4345-4362. [PMID: 34668842 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.1969850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, the management of active relapsing remitting MS was based on the, so-called, maintenance therapy, which is characterized by continuous treatment with particular disease modifying therapy (DMT), and a return of disease activity when the drug is discontinued. Another approach is characterized by a short treatment course of a DMT, which is hypothesized to act as an immune reconstitution therapy (IRT), with the potential to protect against relapses for years after a short course of treatment. Introduction of monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of MS has revolutionized MS treatment in the last decade. However, given the increasingly complex landscape of DMTs approved for MS, people with MS and neurologists are constantly faced with the question which DMT is the most appropriate for the given patient, a question we still do not have an answer to. In this product review, we will discuss the first DMT that acts as IRT, an anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody alemtuzumab and an anti CD20 monoclonal antibody, ocrelizumab that has the potential to act as an IRT, but is administered continuously. Special emphasis will be given on safety in the context of COVID-19 pandemics and vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Gabelić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Barbara Barun
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivan Adamec
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Magdalena Krbot Skorić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mario Habek
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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11
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Buonomo AR, Viceconte G, Zappulo E, Maraolo AE, Russo CV, Carotenuto A, Moccia M, Gentile I. Update on infective complications in patients treated with alemtuzumab for multiple sclerosis: review and meta-analysis of real-world and randomized studies. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2021; 20:1237-1246. [PMID: 34310251 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2021.1942454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to systematically assess the pooled prevalence of infective complications in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and real-world studies (RWSs) investigating alemtuzumab treatment in multiple sclerosis (MS), also looking at selected infections and their severity. METHODS We included in the analysis RCTs and RWSs investigating the use of alemtuzumab in MS in which infective complications were reported, as well as case reports of rare infections. We conducted a meta-analysis of proportions and a random effect model meta-regression to investigate heterogeneity. RESULTS The pooled prevalence of infective complications in alemtuzumab treated MS patients is 24%. The most common reported infections are respiratory tract infections (47%) and the most part of the infections are mild-to-moderate (85%). Severe infections account for 6% of the total estimate. We found first-time-reported cases of invasive aspergillosis, hepatitis E virus infection, EBV hepatitis, and cerebral toxoplasmosis. The prevalence of infections is higher in studies conducted before 2009, and in studies with higher proportion of male participants. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians should be aware that the prevalence of serious infections during alemtuzumab can be higher than expected from RCTs. Peculiar opportunistic infections should be considered when evaluating a patient treated with alemtuzumab who develops signs of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Riccardo Buonomo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Giulio Viceconte
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Emanuela Zappulo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Alberto Enrico Maraolo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Cinzia Valeria Russo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonio Carotenuto
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Marcello Moccia
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Ivan Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
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12
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Rauma I, Mustonen T, Seppä JM, Ukkonen M, Männikkö M, Verkkoniemi-Ahola A, Kartau M, Saarinen JT, Luostarinen L, Simula S, Ryytty M, Ahmasalo R, Sipilä JOT, Pieninkeroinen I, Tapiola T, Remes AM, Kuusisto H. Safety of alemtuzumab in a nationwide cohort of Finnish multiple sclerosis patients. J Neurol 2021; 269:824-835. [PMID: 34255182 PMCID: PMC8782800 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10664-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Background Alemtuzumab is an effective disease-modifying therapy (DMT) for highly active multiple sclerosis (MS). However, safety concerns limit its use in clinical practice. Objectives To evaluate the safety of alemtuzumab in a nationwide cohort of Finnish MS patients. Methods In this retrospective case series study, we analyzed the data of all but two MS patients who had received alemtuzumab in Finland until 2019. Data were systematically collected from patient files. Results Altogether 121 patients were identified, most of whom had received previous DMTs (82.6%). Median follow-up time after treatment initiation was 30.3 months and exceeded 24 months in 78 patients. Infusion-associated reactions (IARs) were observed in 84.3%, 57.3%, and 57.1% of patients during alemtuzumab courses 1–3, respectively. Serious adverse events (SAEs) were observed in 32.2% of patients, serious IARs in 12.4% of patients, and SAEs other than IARs in 23.1% of patients. Autoimmune adverse events were observed in 30.6% of patients. One patient died of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, and one patient died of pneumonia. A previously unreported case of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura was documented. Conclusions SAEs were more frequent in the present cohort than in previous studies. Even though alemtuzumab is a highly effective therapy for MS, vigorous monitoring with a long enough follow-up time is advised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilkka Rauma
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland. .,Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland. .,Department of Neurology, Seinäjoki Central Hospital, Seinäjoki, Finland.
| | - Tiina Mustonen
- Neuro Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Maritta Ukkonen
- Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Marianne Männikkö
- Department of Neurology, Seinäjoki Central Hospital, Seinäjoki, Finland
| | - Auli Verkkoniemi-Ahola
- Clinical Neurosciences, Neurology, Helsinki University Hospital and Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marge Kartau
- Clinical Neurosciences, Neurology, Helsinki University Hospital and Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Liisa Luostarinen
- Department of Neurology, Päijät-Häme Central Hospital, Lahti, Finland
| | - Sakari Simula
- Department of Neurology, Mikkeli Central Hospital, Mikkeli, Finland
| | - Mervi Ryytty
- Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.,Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oulu, Faculty of Medicine, Oulu, Finland
| | - Riitta Ahmasalo
- Department of Neurology, Lapland Central Hospital, Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Jussi O T Sipilä
- Department of Neurology, North Karelia Central Hospital, Siun Sote, Joensuu, Finland.,Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Tero Tapiola
- Department of Neurology, South Karelia Central Hospital, Lappeenranta, Finland
| | - Anne M Remes
- Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.,Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oulu, Faculty of Medicine, Oulu, Finland
| | - Hanna Kuusisto
- Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.,Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Neurology, Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, Hämeenlinna, Finland
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13
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Scotto R, Reia A, Buonomo AR, Moccia M, Viceconte G, Pisano E, Zappulo E, Brescia Morra V, Gentile I. Risk of invasive fungal infections among patients treated with disease modifying treatments for multiple sclerosis: a comprehensive review. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2021; 20:925-936. [PMID: 33880975 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2021.1918673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Disease modifying treatments are commonly used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. As different opportunistic infections have been reported, concerns are also raised regarding the risk of invasive fungal infections.Areas covered: Both clinical trials and observational studies on safety and efficacy of diseases modifying treatment for multiple sclerosis were reviewed and data regarding the occurrence of invasive fungal infections were reported. Papers evaluating the following drugs were reviewed: rituximab, ocrelizumab, alemtuzumab, fingolimod, natalizumab, dimethyl fumarate, interferon, glatiramer acetate, cladribine, teriflunomide.Expert opinion: Overall, the occurrence of invasive fungal infections was low, with most infective events reported among patients treated with monoclonal antibodies and fingolimod. Aspergillosis and cryptococcal meningitidis were the most representative fungal infections. Although not common, these infections may be difficult to diagnose and their fatality rate is often high. For this reason, screening protocols for fungal infections must be implemented in the clinical practice when managing patients with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Scotto
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - A Reia
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Care and Research Centre, University of Naples Federico II, Italy
| | - A R Buonomo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - M Moccia
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Care and Research Centre, University of Naples Federico II, Italy
| | - G Viceconte
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - E Pisano
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Care and Research Centre, University of Naples Federico II, Italy
| | - E Zappulo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - V Brescia Morra
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Care and Research Centre, University of Naples Federico II, Italy
| | - I Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Bose G, Rush C, Atkins HL, Freedman MS. A real-world single-centre analysis of alemtuzumab and cladribine for multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 52:102945. [PMID: 33901969 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Highly active MS may warrant higher efficacy treatments for disease control. However, these often confer more risk and have not been compared in head-to-head clinical trials, making relative efficacy and safety difficult to interpret. Alemtuzumab and cladribine are two high-efficacy treatments given as discrete courses separated by one year, followed by a durable response that potentially does not require ongoing treatment. Before the approval of oral cladribine, our centre had been treating patients with a bioequivalent intravenous (IV) regimen since 2010. The objective of this study is to report the safety and efficacy data of alemtuzumab and cladribine in a real-world, single centre setting. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed all patients treated with alemtuzumab or cladribine at the Ottawa Hospital MS Clinic with 2 or more years of follow-up. Information on baseline demographic variables, previous treatment, and prior disease activity was collected. Outcomes investigated were "no evidence of disease activity" (NEDA) and its constituents: new clinical relapse, new MRI activity, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) progression; as well as any adverse events or treatment discontinuation. We performed univariate and multiple logistic regression to determine differences in 2-year NEDA and time-to-event analyses with Cox regression models to determine factors associated with each outcome through the study period. RESULTS Forty-six patients were treated with alemtuzumab and 65 with cladribine of whom 51 (78%) received the intravenous regimen, followed for a total of 420.1 person-years. The cladribine group was older (p=.0002), with higher baseline EDSS (p=.0015), and more likely secondary progressive (p<.0001). Alemtuzumab had a higher rate of 2-year NEDA than cladribine (OR 4.78, 95%CI: 1.57-14.50, p=.006), but beyond 2 years the difference was not statistically significant (HR 0.50, 95%CI: 0.25-1. 30, p=.061). More prior treatments were associated with lower likelihood of retaining NEDA (HR 1.26, 95%CI: 1.03-1.54, p=.027). Alemtuzumab had more infusion reactions (80% vs. 17%, p<.0001), shingles (22% vs. 2%, p=.005), and secondary autoimmunity (52% vs. 3%, p<.0001) than cladribine, but there was no difference in grade 3 or higher adverse events (21.7% vs. 18.5%, p=1.0). CONCLUSION In our cohort alemtuzumab and cladribine achieved similar rates of NEDA in long-term follow-up, with overall less adverse events with cladribine. Patient registries would allow more robust comparisons, detection of adverse events, and assessment of a durable response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauruv Bose
- University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus, 1053 Carling Ave, Ottawa ON K1Y 4E9, Canada.
| | - Carolina Rush
- University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital General Campus, Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, 501 Smyth Road, Box 601, Ottawa ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
| | - Harold L Atkins
- University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital General Campus, Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, 501 Smyth Road, Box 926, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
| | - Mark S Freedman
- University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital General Campus, Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, 501 Smyth Road, Box 601, Ottawa ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
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15
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Brecl Jakob G, Barun B, Gomezelj S, Gabelić T, Šega Jazbec S, Adamec I, Horvat Ledinek A, Rot U, Krbot Skorić M, Habek M. Effectiveness and safety of alemtuzumab in the treatment of active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a multicenter, observational study. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:4591-4597. [PMID: 33660157 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05145-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE So far, a limited number of real-world evidence studies about the effectiveness and safety of alemtuzumab (ALM) have been published, some of them with a relatively small number of included patients. We aimed to study the efficacy and safety of ALM in real-world clinical practice in two MS centers in Slovenia and Croatia. METHODS This was a retrospective chart review of 71 consecutive patients with relapsing-remitting MS who were treated with ALM from 2015 till 2018. The following data were collected: gender, age at disease onset, disease duration at ALM initiation, previous disease modifying therapy, number of relapses, active MRI lesions, and EDSS in the year prior to ALM initiation and every year of follow-up. RESULTS All patients completed the standard dosing schedule and were followed for a mean time of 3.2±1.1 years after the initiation of treatment. Complete data for the 2 years after treatment (relapses, EDSS, and MRI) were available for 48 patients, of which 14 (29.2%) achieved NEDA. Clinical NEDA was achieved in 38 out of 63 participants (60.3%). In year 1, 24 out of 57 (42.1%) patients achieved NEDA. In year 2, 26 out of 41 (63.4%) patients achieved NEDA. Lower EDSS prior to starting ALM was the only independent predictor of NEDA in a multivariable model. Adverse events occurred in 58 participants (84.1%), with no new safety signals identified. CONCLUSION According to the data from our cohort of early active RRMS patients we conclude ALM efficacy remains high in the real-world clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Brecl Jakob
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Barbara Barun
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sarah Gomezelj
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tereza Gabelić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Saša Šega Jazbec
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ivan Adamec
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Uroš Rot
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Magdalena Krbot Skorić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia.,Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mario Habek
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia. .,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
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16
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The Disease-Modifying Therapies of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis and Liver Injury: A Narrative Review. CNS Drugs 2021; 35:861-880. [PMID: 34319570 PMCID: PMC8354931 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-021-00842-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In this narrative review, we analyze pre-registration and post-marketing data concerning hepatotoxicity of all disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) available for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, including beta interferon, glatiramer acetate, fingolimod, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, cladribine, natalizumab, alemtuzumab, and ocrelizumab. We review the proposed causal mechanisms described in the literature and we also address issues like use of DMTs in patients with viral hepatitis or liver cirrhosis. Most data emerged in the post-marketing phase by reports to national pharmacovigilance agencies and published case reports or case series. Serious liver adverse events are rare, but exact incidence is largely unknown, as are predictive factors. Unfortunately, none of the DMTs currently available for the treatment of multiple sclerosis is free of potential hepatic toxic effects. Cases of acute liver failure have been reported for beta-interferon, fingolimod, natalizumab, alemtuzumab, and ocrelizumab by different mechanisms (idiosyncratic reaction, autoimmune hepatitis, or viral reactivation). Patients with multiple sclerosis should be informed about possible hepatic side effects of their treatment. Most cases of liver injury are idiosyncratic and unpredictable. The specific monitoring schedule for each DMT has been reviewed and the clinician should be ready to recognize clinical symptoms suggestive for liver injury. Not all DMTs are indicated in cirrhotic patients. For some DMTs, screening for hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus is required before starting treatment and a monitoring or antiviral prophylaxis schedule has been established. Beta interferon, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab, and alemtuzumab are relatively contraindicated in autoimmune hepatitis due to the risk of disease exacerbation.
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17
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A real-world cohort analysis of alemtuzumab outcomes in relapsing multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 47:102619. [PMID: 33189019 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and progressive neurological disease characterized by recurrent episodes of inflammatory demyelination of the brain and spinal cord. Alemtuzumab has been previously shown in large phase III trials to be an effective therapy in reducing MS clinical flares as well as new radiological activity and atrophy rates. The purpose of this study was to examine real-world effectiveness and safety data from a large cohort of people treated with alemtuzumab at an academic medical center, including those who failed B-cell depletion therapy. Over an average of 2.6 years follow-up, there were small but significant improvements in neurological disability scores, and a 61% rate of the composite "No Evidence of Disease Activity" (NEDA-3) outcome at 2-year follow-up. There were no substantial safety issues encountered in our review; rates of adverse events were similar or below those reported in Phase III trials. We compare and contrast our results to other available real-world data using alemtuzumab in multiple sclerosis.
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18
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Comi G, Dalla Costa G, Moiola L. Newly approved agents for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis: how real-world evidence compares with randomized clinical trials? Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 21:21-34. [PMID: 33043718 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1829478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In recent years, many treatment options have become available for relapsing remitting MS. Randomized clinical trials and real-world studies are complementary sources of information, and together have the potential to offer a comprehensive understanding of the safety and efficacy profiles of each drug, a critical factor for a personalized management of the disease. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors provide an up-to-date review of both RCTs and real-world studies assessing the safety and efficacy profiles of recently developed disease-modifying drugs for relapsing remitting MS. These include fingolimod, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, alemtuzumab and ocrelizumab. EXPERT OPINION From the authors' review of the literature, the efficacy profiles resulted from RCTs were confirmed by observational studies with regard to the disease-modifying drugs considered. The magnitude of the effects on annualized relapse rates and MRI active lesions was generally even larger in the observational studies compared to RCTs. From the safety point of view, observational studies revealed new adverse events, mostly in the area of bacterial and opportunistic infections, not seen in the relative registration programme. This is a very important gain because it allows to elaborate appropriate strategies to prevent and handle the risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Comi
- Institute of Experimental Neurology of San Raffaele Hospital , Milan, Italy
| | - Gloria Dalla Costa
- Institute of Experimental Neurology of San Raffaele Hospital , Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University , Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Moiola
- Institute of Experimental Neurology of San Raffaele Hospital , Milan, Italy.,Neurology Unit and MS Center, San Raffaele Hospital , Milan, Italy
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di Ioia M, Di Stefano V, Farina D, Di Tommaso V, Travaglini D, Pietrolongo E, Sensi SL, Onofrj M, De Luca G. Data of safety in a single-center alemtuzumab treated population. Data Brief 2020; 29:105341. [PMID: 32181303 PMCID: PMC7062935 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2020.105341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Di Stefano V, Barbone F, Ferrante C, Telese R, Vitale M, Onofrj M, Di Muzio A. Inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathies: Clinical and immunological aspects, current therapies, and future perspectives. EUR J INFLAMM 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/2058739220942340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathies are heterogeneous disorders characterized by immune-mediated leukocyte infiltration of peripheral nerves and nerve roots leading to demyelination or axonal degeneration or both. Inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathies can be divided into acute and chronic: Guillain–Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and their variants. Despite major advances in immunology and molecular biology have been made in the last years, the pathogenesis of these disorders is not completely understood. This review summarizes the current literature of the clinical features and pathogenic mechanisms of inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathies and focuses on current therapies and new potential treatment for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Filomena Barbone
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Camilla Ferrante
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Roberta Telese
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Michela Vitale
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Marco Onofrj
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Muzio
- Department of Neurology, “SS. Annunziata” Hospital, Chieti, Italy
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