Long-Term Efficacy of Evolocumab in Patients With or Without Multivessel Coronary Disease

BACKGROUND

In FOURIER (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research with PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects with Elevated Risk), during a median follow-up of 2.2 years, risk reduction for major adverse cardiovascular event with evolocumab was greater in patients with multivessel disease (MVD). The FOURIER Open-Label Extension (FOURIER-OLE) provides an additional median follow-up of 5 years.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term benefit of evolocumab in patients with and without MVD.

METHODS

FOURIER randomized 27,564 patients to evolocumab vs placebo; 6,635 entered FOURIER-OLE. Patients with coronary artery disease were categorized based on the presence of MVD (≥40% stenosis in ≥2 large vessels). The primary endpoint was cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, hospitalization for unstable angina, or coronary revascularization; the key secondary endpoint was cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke.

RESULTS

Of 23,656 patients in FOURIER with coronary artery disease, 25.4% had MVD; 5,887 patients continued into FOURIER-OLE. The risk reduction with initial allocation to evolocumab tended to be greater in patients with MVD than in those without: 23% (HR: 0.77 [95% CI: 0.68-0.87]) vs 11% (HR: 0.89 [95% CI: 0.82-0.96]) for the primary and 31% (HR: 0.69 [95% CI: 0.59-0.81]) vs 15% (HR: 0.85 [95% CI: 0.77-0.94]) for the key secondary endpoints (Pinteraction = 0.062 and Pinteraction = 0.031, respectively). The magnitude of benefit tended to grow during the first several years, reaching 37% to 38% reductions in risk in patients with MVD and 23% to 28% reductions in risk in patients without MVD.

CONCLUSIONS

Evolocumab reduced the rate of major adverse cardiovascular event in patients with and without MVD. The benefit tended to occur earlier and was larger in patients with MVD. However, the magnitude grew over time in both groups. These data support early initiation of intensive low-density lipoprotein cholesterol lowering both in patients with and without MVD.

Quantification of LDL-Cholesterol Corrected for Molar Concentration of Lipoprotein(a)

PURPOSE

Cholesterol in lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)-C] is commonly estimated as 30% of the measured Lp(a) mass. However, difficulties in the accurate measurement of Lp(a) mass, along with the inaccuracy of the 30% assumption, produce erroneous values when LDL-C is corrected for Lp(a) [LDL-CLp(a)corr]. Our aim was to develop a new formula for LDL-CLp(a)corr to reduce this error.

METHODS

We developed a new formula to calculate Lp(a)-C from the molar measurement of Lp(a), which is Lp(a) nmol/L × 0.077 = Lp(a)-C mg/dL. The calculated Lp(a)-C is subtracted from LDL-C to obtain LDL-CLp(a)corr. The results obtained with our novel formula versus the conventional formula were compared in 440 samples from 239 participants enrolled in the BANTING study.

RESULTS

With the conventional formula, approximately 7% of samples with low LDL-C resulted in negative LDL-CLp(a)corr values. With the new formula, no negative LDL-CLp(a)corr values occurred. Among groups with the highest Lp(a)/apoB ratio (p < 0.001) and smaller apolipoprotein(a) isoform size (p < 0.006), LDL-CLp(a)corr was significantly underestimated by the conventional formula, which may result in the undertreatment of some patients.

CONCLUSION

The new formula provides more reliable estimates of LDL-CLp(a)corr than the conventional formula.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02739984.

Efficacy and Safety of Evolocumab in Chinese Patients with Primary Hypercholesterolemia and Mixed Dyslipidemia: 12-Week Primary Results of the HUA TUO Randomized Clinical Trial

INTRODUCTION

Evolocumab, a fully human proprotein convertase/subtilisin kexin type 9 inhibitor antibody, significantly lowers low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia. This 12-week study evaluated the efficacy and safety of evolocumab in Chinese patients with primary hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipidemia at different levels of cardiovascular disease risk.

METHODS

HUA TUO was a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Chinese patients aged 18 years or older on stable optimized statin therapy were randomized 2:2:1:1 to receive evolocumab 140 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W), evolocumab 420 mg monthly (QM), or a matching placebo. The coprimary endpoints were percent change from baseline in LDL-C at the mean of weeks 10 and 12 and at week 12.

RESULTS

Overall, 241 randomized patients (mean [standard deviation] age, 60.2 [10.3] years) received evolocumab 140 mg Q2W (n = 79), evolocumab 420 mg QM (n = 80), placebo Q2W (n = 41), or placebo QM (n = 41). At weeks 10 and 12, the placebo-adjusted least-squares mean percent change from baseline in LDL-C for the evolocumab 140 mg Q2W group was - 70.7% (95% CI - 78.0% to - 63.5%); - 69.7% (95% CI - 76.5% to - 63.0%) for the evolocumab 420 mg QM group. Significant improvements in all other lipid parameters were observed with evolocumab. The patient incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events was similar between the treatment groups and across dosing regimens.

CONCLUSION

In Chinese patients with primary hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipidemia, 12-week treatment with evolocumab significantly lowered LDL-C and other lipids, and was safe and well tolerated (NCT03433755).

Association Between Achieved Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels and Long-Term Cardiovascular and Safety Outcomes: An Analysis of FOURIER-OLE

BACKGROUND

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level is a well-established risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, the optimal achieved LDL-C level with regard to efficacy and safety in the long term remains unknown.

METHODS

In FOURIER (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research With PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects With Elevated Risk), 27 564 patients with stable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease were randomized to evolocumab versus placebo, with a median follow-up of 2.2 years. In the open-label extension (FOURIER-OLE), 6635 of these patients were transitioned to open-label evolocumab regardless of initial treatment allocation in the parent trial and were followed up with for an additional median of 5 years. In this prespecified analysis, we examined the relationship between achieved LDL-C levels (an average of the first 2 LDL-C levels measured) in FOURIER-OLE (available in 6559 patients) and the incidence of subsequent cardiovascular and safety outcomes. We also performed sensitivity analyses evaluating cardiovascular and safety outcomes in the entire FOURIER and FOURIER-OLE patient population. Multivariable modeling was used to adjust for baseline factors associated with achieved LDL-C levels.

RESULTS

In FOURIER-OLE, 1604 (24%), 2627 (40%), 1031 (16%), 486 (7%), and 811 (12%) patients achieved LDL-C levels of <20, 20 to <40, 40 to <55, 55 to <70, and ≥70 mg/dL, respectively. There was a monotonic relationship between lower achieved LDL-C levels-down to very low levels <20 mg/dL-and a lower risk of the trial's primary efficacy end point (composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or hospital admission for unstable angina or coronary revascularization) and the key secondary efficacy end point (composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke) that persisted after multivariable adjustment (adjusted P_trend<0.0001 for both end points). No statistically significant associations existed in the primary analyses between lower achieved LDL-C levels and increased risk of the safety outcomes (serious adverse events, new or recurrent cancer, cataract-related adverse events, hemorrhagic stroke, new-onset diabetes, neurocognitive adverse events, muscle-related events, or noncardiovascular death). Similar findings were noted in the entire FOURIER and FOURIER-OLE cohort up to a maximum follow-up of 8.6 years.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, long-term achievement of lower LDL-C levels, down to <20 mg/dL (<0.5 mmol/L), was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular outcomes with no significant safety concerns.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifier: NCT01764633.

Long-Term Evolocumab in Patients With Established Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

BACKGROUND

In FOURIER (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research With PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects With Elevated Risk), the proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 inhibitor evolocumab reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and risk of cardiovascular events and was safe and well tolerated over a median of 2.2 years of follow-up. However, large-scale, long-term data are lacking.

METHODS

The parent FOURIER trial randomized 27 564 patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and LDL-C ≥70 mg/dL on statin to evolocumab versus placebo. Patients completing FOURIER at participating sites were eligible to receive evolocumab in 2 open-label extension studies (FOURIER-OLE [FOURIER Open-Label Extension]) in the United States and Europe; primary analyses were pooled across studies. The primary end point was the incidence of adverse events. Lipid values and major adverse cardiovascular events were prospectively collected.

RESULTS

A total of 6635 patients were enrolled in FOURIER-OLE (3355 randomized to evolocumab and 3280 to placebo in the parent study). Median follow-up in FOURIER-OLE was 5.0 years; maximum exposure to evolocumab in parent plus FOURIER-OLE was 8.4 years. At 12 weeks in FOURIER-OLE, median LDL-C was 30 mg/dL, and 63.2% of patients achieved LDL-C <40 mg/dL on evolocumab. Incidences of serious adverse events, muscle-related events, new-onset diabetes, hemorrhagic stroke, and neurocognitive events with evolocumab long term did not exceed those for placebo-treated patients during the parent study and did not increase over time. During the FOURIER-OLE follow-up period, patients originally randomized in the parent trial to evolocumab versus placebo had a 15% lower risk of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or hospitalization for unstable angina or coronary revascularization (hazard ratio, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.75-0.96]; P=0.008); a 20% lower risk of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke (hazard ratio, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.68-0.93]; P=0.003); and a 23% lower risk of cardiovascular death (hazard ratio, 0.77 [95% CI, 0.60-0.99]; P=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term LDL-C lowering with evolocumab was associated with persistently low rates of adverse events for >8 years that did not exceed those observed in the original placebo arm during the parent study and led to further reductions in cardiovascular events compared with delayed treatment initiation.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifiers: NCT02867813 and NCT03080935.

Effects of evolocumab in individuals with type 2 diabetes with and without atherogenic dyslipidemia: An analysis from BANTING and BERSON

Background

Atherogenic dyslipidemia (AD), characterized by increased concentrations of apolipoprotein B (ApoB)-containing particles, is often present in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), cholesterol transported by apolipoprotein B (ApoB)-containing particles), and total apoB are considered secondary goals of lipid-lowering therapy to guide treatment of residual cardiovascular risk. The BANTING and BERSON studies demonstrated that evolocumab added to statin therapy reduced atherogenic lipid and lipoproteins concentrations in patients with T2DM.

Methods

This post-hoc analysis combined data from two randomized, placebo-controlled trials, BANTING and BERSON, to investigate the effect of evolocumab (140 mg every two weeks [Q2W] or 420 mg monthly [QM]) on atherogenic lipid (LDL-C, non-HDL-C, VLDL-C, remnant cholesterol) and lipoproteins (ApoB, lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a])), and achievement of 2019 European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society lipid treatment goals in individuals with and without AD.

Results

In individuals with high TGs with (n = 389) and without (n = 196) AD receiving background statin therapy, evolocumab, compared with placebo, substantially reduced the cholesterol levels from all ApoB atherogenic lipoproteins (least squares (LS) mean LDL-C by 66.7% to 74.3%, non-HDL-C by 53.4% to 65.8%, median remnant cholesterol by 28.9% to 34.2%, VLDL-C by 16.1% to 19.6%) and median TGs levels (by 17.5% to 19.6%) at the mean of weeks 10 and 12. LS mean ApoB was significantly reduced by 41.5% to 56.6% at week 12. Results were consistent in diabetic individuals with normal TGs (n = 519). Evolocumab was also associated with a significant reduction in median Lp(a) by 35.0% to 53.9% at the mean of weeks 10 and 12. A majority (74.7% to 79.8%) of evolocumab-treated individuals achieved the goal of both an LDL-C < 1.4 mmol/L and an LDL-C reduction of at least 50%, > 75% achieved non-HDL-C < 2.2 mmol/L at the mean of weeks 10 and 12, and > 67% achieved ApoB < 65 mg/dL at week 12.

Conclusions

Evolocumab effectively reduced LDL-C, non-HDL-C, ApoB, Lp(a), and remnant cholesterol in individuals with T2DM with and without AD. Evolocumab Q2W or QM enabled most individuals at high/very-high cardiovascular disease risk to achieve their LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and ApoB recommended goals.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12933-021-01287-6.

Effects of Evolocumab on Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Non-High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Apolipoprotein B, and Lipoprotein(a) by Race and Ethnicity: A Meta-Analysis of Individual Participant Data From Double-Blind and Open-Label Extension Studies

Background

Prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors and rates of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease outcomes vary across racial/ethnic groups. This analysis examined the effects of evolocumab on LDL‐C (low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels and LDL‐C goals achievement by race/ethnicity.

Methods and Results

Data from 15 phase 2 and 3 studies of treatment with evolocumab versus placebo or ezetimibe were pooled (n=7669). Results were analyzed by participant clinical characteristics and by self‐identified race/ethnicity. Key outcomes included percent change from baseline in LDL‐C, achievement of LDL‐C <70 mg/dL, and LDL‐C reduction of ≥50% at 12 weeks and at 1 to 5 years. Across 12‐week studies, mean percent change in LDL‐C from baseline in evolocumab‐treated participants was −52% to −59% for White and −46% to −67% for non‐White participants, across clinical characteristics groups. LDL‐C <70 mg/dL was achieved in 43% to 84% and 62% to 94% and LDL‐C reduction of ≥50% in 63% to 78% and 58% to 86%, respectively. In 1‐ to 5‐year studies, mean percent change in LDL‐C was −46% to −52% for White and −49% to −55% for non‐White participants. LDL‐C <70 mg/dL was achieved in 53% to 84% and 66% to 77%, and LDL‐C reduction of ≥50% in 53% to 67% and 58% to 68%, respectively. The treatment effect on mean percent change in LDL‐C differed only in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with a larger reduction in Asian participants. The qualitative interaction P values were nonsignificant, indicating consistent directionality of effect.

Conclusions

Similar reduction in LDL‐C levels with evolocumab was observed across racial/ethnic groups in 12‐week and 1‐ to 5‐year studies. Among those with diabetes mellitus, Asian participants had greater LDL‐C reduction.

Effect of Evolocumab on Non-High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Apolipoprotein B, and Lipoprotein(a): A Pooled Analysis of Phase 2 and Phase 3 Studies

Background

Dyslipidemia guidelines recommend non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (non‐HDL‐C) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) as additional targets of therapy and consider lipoprotein(a) a significant cardiovascular risk marker. The current analysis evaluates the effects of evolocumab on these parameters in various patient populations over time.

Methods and Results

Data from 7690 patients, 4943 of whom received at least 1 dose of evolocumab, in 15 phase 2 and phase 3 studies with a duration ranging from 12 weeks to 5 years were pooled based on study length, patient population, and ezetimibe or placebo comparator groups. Patients could receive intensive statin therapy but not in the statin intolerance and monotherapy studies. The effects of evolocumab on percent change from baseline for non‐HDL‐C, ApoB, and lipoprotein(a) and achievement of treatment goals for non‐HDL‐C and ApoB were examined. Compared with placebo, evolocumab at both approved dosing regimens substantially reduced mean non‐HDL‐C (Q2W dose: −49% to −56%, monthly dose: −48% to −52%), mean ApoB (Q2W dose: −46% to −52%, monthly dose: −40% to −48%), and median lipoprotein(a) (Q2W dose: −22% to −38%, monthly dose: −20% to −33%) at 12 weeks. Effects on all 3 parameters persisted over 5 years. Lipid‐lowering effects were consistent among the patient populations examined (hypercholesterolemia/mixed dyslipidemia, statin intolerance, heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus).

Conclusions

In this pooled analysis, evolocumab substantially reduced non‐HDL‐C, ApoB, and lipoprotein(a) compared with placebo. The effect was consistent and maintained in various patient populations over 5 years.

A Phase 1, Randomized, Double-Blind, Single-Dose, Placebo-Controlled Safety, Tolerability, And Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Study Of Evolocumab In Healthy Chinese Subjects

Purpose

Evolocumab is a human monoclonal antibody that reduces circulating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by inhibiting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). Data on evolocumab pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are derived mostly from Caucasian populations. The objectives of this study were to characterize the single-dose pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters, safety, and tolerability of evolocumab in healthy Chinese subjects.

Subjects and methods

This was a phase 1, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (CTR20150465). Two parallel cohorts were randomized 5:1 to receive single subcutaneous injections of either evolocumab (140 mg or 420 mg) or placebo. Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety were evaluated through day 85. The primary endpoints were maximum concentration (C_max) and area under the drug concentration-time curve from time 0 to time of last quantifiable concentration (AUC_last).

Results

Thirty-six men (median age 26) were enrolled to receive evolocumab 140 mg (n=15), evolocumab 420 mg (n=15), or placebo (n=6). After 140 mg and 420 mg evolocumab, mean (SD) C_max was 13.8 (3.6 μg/mL and 67.6 (15.2) μg/mL, respectively, and mean (SD) AUC_last was 166 (55) day·μg/mL and 1110 (274) day·μg/mL, respectively. LDL-C declined reversibly, with reductions of 70% at 140 mg and 71% at 420 mg. Maximum effects on LDL-C and PCSK9 levels were reached by day 15 and 24 hrs, respectively, at 140 mg, and by day 22 and 4 hrs, respectively, at 420 mg. No serious adverse events occurred and the overall incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events was similar for evolocumab and placebo: 26.7% (140 mg) and 33.3% (placebo); 66.7% (420 mg) and 66.7% (placebo).

Conclusion

In this population of healthy Chinese subjects, single 140 mg and 420 mg doses of evolocumab exhibited nonlinear kinetics and more than dose-proportional increases in exposure, were associated with up to 71% reduction in LDL-C, and demonstrated a safety profile similar to placebo.

P5326Effect of evolocumab on lipoprotein(a) levels: results across 15 studies

Background/Introduction

Elevated levels of lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) have been associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Elevated Lp(a) is relatively refractory to lifestyle change and pharmacologic intervention.

Purpose

To examine the effect of evolocumab on Lp(a) in a range of clinical trial populations, including hypercholesterolaemia/mixed dyslipidaemia, statin-intolerance, diabetes mellitus, and heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HeFH) at different timepoints up to 5 years.

Methods

Fifteen phase 2 and phase 3 double-blind and open-label extension studies, with a minimum 12 weeks duration that used approved doses of evolocumab (140 mg every 2 weeks [Q2W] or 420 mg once monthly [QM]) were included in this analysis. Studies were pooled on the basis of patient population, duration, and comparator groups (of which the MENDEL-1, -2, GAUSS-1, -2, and LAPLACE-2 atorvastatin cohort studies employed ezetimibe comparators). The effect of evolocumab on percent change from baseline in Lp(a) was examined.

Results

In short-term studies, evolocumab led to a median percent change in Lp(a) from baseline to week 12 of −21.2% to −33.3% overall (Table). Results were similar for both evolocumab doses with median percent change ranging from −22.0% to −38.2% for 140 mg Q2W and −20.0% to −33.3% for 420 mg QM. In long-term studies (1 to 5 years), percent change in Lp(a) ranged from −23.8% to −33.3%.

Patient populations Percent change from baseline in Lp(a), median (Q1, Q3), % Ezetimibe comparator trials Placebo comparator trials Evolocumab Ezetimibe Evolocumab Placebo 12-week studies   Hypercholesterolaemia/mixed dyslipidaemia (YUKAWA-1, -2, LAPLACE-TIMI-57, LAPLACE-2, MENDEL-1, -2) −22.0 (−39.4, 0.0), n=760 0.0 (−11.8, 14.6), n=387 −26.3 (−44.7, −5.0), n=1838 0.0 (−10.4, 15.4), n=1179   Statin intolerance (GAUSS-1, -2) −23.1 (−42.0, −3.3), n=223 0.0 (−16.7, 3.6), n=126 – –   HeFH (RUTHERFORD-1, -2) – – −21.2 (−38.1, −7.0), n=263 0.0 (−4.2, 15.3), n=150   Type 2 diabetes (BANTING, BERSON) – – −33.3 (−55.6, −16.7), n=833 0.0 (−16.2, 16.7), n=425 Long-term studies   1-Year (DESCARTES) – – −28.4 (−49.2, −6.0), n=535 −5.5 (−20.5, 0.9), n=272   2-Year (OSLER-2)†‡ −23.8 (−44.4, 0.0), n=3077 – – –   5-Year (OSLER-1)† −33.3 (−51.3, −11.1), n=941 – – – †All patients received evolocumab in the OSLER studies. ‡OSLER-2 was a 3-year study; however, only 2-year data were available for Lp(a).

Conclusion

Evolocumab reduces Lp(a) in a variety of patient populations at 12 weeks with sustained lowering over 5 years.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Amgen Inc.

P6192Effects of evolocumab on LDL-C by race and ethnicity: an analysis of double-blind and open-label extension studies

Background/Introduction

Cardiovascular risk factors and clinical outcomes of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) vary amongst racial and ethnic groups.

Purpose

To examine the effects of evolocumab on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and achievement of LDL-C target goals by race or ethnicity.

Methods

Data from global phase 2 and 3 studies with at least 12 weeks of treatment with approved evolocumab doses vs. placebo or ezetimibe were included in this analysis (n=4375). Results were analysed by patient characteristics (statin intolerance, type 2 diabetes, heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia, and hypercholesterolaemia/mixed dyslipidaemia), self-identified race (White, Black/African American, and Asian), and self-identified ethnicity (Hispanic/Latino). Key outcomes included percent change in LDL-C, achievement of LDL-C <1.8 mmol/L (<70 mg/dL), and LDL-C achievement of at least 50% reduction.

Results

After 12-week evolocumab treatment, mean percent change in LDL-C from baseline ranged from approximately −52% to −59% for white patients to −49% to −67% for non-white patients, across all groups with adequate sample size (n>20) (Table). LDL-C <1.8 mmol/L was achieved in 43–84% of white patients and 62–94% of non-white patients receiving evolocumab (n>20). Similarly, 63–78% of white patients and 58–86% of non-white patients achieved at least a 50% reduction in LDL-C. The magnitude of treatment effect on mean percent change in LDL-C differed significantly only between white and non-white patients with diabetes (interaction p-values of treatment by race for evolocumab every 2 weeks p<0.001; once monthly p=0.007). This was driven by a greater reduction in Asian patients.

Mean (standard deviation) percent change in LDL-C levels from baseline, % Achievement of LDL-C <1.8 mmol/L (70 mg/dL)/LDL-C achievement of at least 50% reduction, % Population White Non-White Non-Hispanic Black or African American Asian Hispanic/Latino* White Non-White Non-Hispanic Black or African American Asian Hispanic/Latino* Statin-Intolerant† −55.4 (14.8) −46.3 (20.9) −46.0 (13.4) −49.0 (29.3) −54.6 (12.3) 42.9 / 68.6 26.7 / 60.0 14.3 / 42.9 50.0 / 83.3 0 / 66.7 n=210 n=15 n=7 n=6 n=3 Diabetes‡ −51.5 (25.6) −66.5 (21.2) −50.4 (22.2) −69.6 (20.2) −59.7 (20.5) 82.3 / 63.0 93.9 / 82.0 90.0 / 62.5 95.1 / 86.6 89.2 / 75.3 n=440 n=395 n=40 n=305 n=158 HeFH§ −57.3 (19.7) −64.1 (12.0) −73.8 (4.1) −60.5 (12.8) −35.8§§ 66.1 / 73.7 61.5 / 84.6 100 / 100 53.3 / 80.0 0 / 0 n=236 n=26 n=3 n=15 n=1 Hyper-cholesterolaemia/ −58.8 (19.2) −65.5 (17.0) −51.2 (19.4) −69.4 (13.9) −54.6 (20.3) 83.3 / 77.6 89.7 / 86.0 74.4 / 60.5 94.7 / 93.5 79.1 / 69.2   Mixed Dyslipidaemia¶ n=1399 n=437 n=86 n=339 n=91 Hyper-cholesterolaemia/ −59.4 (17.1) −58.4 (16.9) −52.8 (19.4) −65.8 (10.3) −56.7 (22.1) 80.2 / 78.5 85.7 / 75.7 82.4 / 67.6 96.7 / 93.3 77.3 / 68.2   Mixed Dyslipidaemia†† n=605 n=70 n=34 n=30 n=44 1-Year Study‡‡ −52.1 (27.7) −48.6 (29.2) −50.8 (22.0) −49.5 (29.4) −43.0 (43.1) 84.4 / 67.4 73.6 / 57.5 74.5 / 59.6 76.5 / 58.8 82.1 / 60.7 n=436 n=106 n=47 n=34 n=28 †GAUSS-1, -2 studies; ‡BANTING and BERSON studies; §RUTHERFORD-1, -2 studies; ¶Placebo comparator: MENDEL-1, -2, LAPLACE-TIMI-57, LAPLACE-2 and YUKAWA-1, -2 studies; ††Ezetimibe comparator: MENDEL-2 and LAPLACE-2 atorvastatin cohorts; ‡‡DESCARTES; §§Standard deviation could not be calculated due to insufficient sample size. *A total of 22 patients receiving evolocumab self-identified as Hispanic Black.

Conclusion

Reduction in LDL-C levels with evolocumab treatment was similar across race and ethnicity, apart from the diabetes population where Asian patients had a greater reduction in LDL-C.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Amgen Inc.

Randomised study of evolocumab in patients with type 2 diabetes and dyslipidaemia on background statin: Primary results of the BERSON clinical trial

AIM

To evaluate the lipid-lowering efficacy and safety of evolocumab combined with background atorvastatin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hyperlipidaemia or mixed dyslipidaemia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

BERSON was a double-blind, 12-week, phase 3 study (NCT02662569) conducted in 10 countries. Patients ≥18 to ≤80 years with type T2DM received atorvastatin 20 mg/d and were randomised 2:2:1:1 to evolocumab 140 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W) or 420 mg monthly (QM) or placebo Q2W or QM. Co-primary endpoints were the percentage change in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) from baseline to week 12 and from baseline to the mean of weeks 10 and 12. Additional endpoints included atherogenic lipids, glycaemic measures, and adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

Overall, 981 patients were randomised and received ≥1 dose of study drug. Evolocumab significantly reduced LDL-C versus placebo at week 12 (Q2W, -71.8%; QM, -74.9%) and at the mean of weeks 10 and 12 (Q2W, -70.3%; QM, -70.0%; adjusted P < 0.0001 for all) when administered with atorvastatin. Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein B100, total cholesterol, lipoprotein (a), triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol improved significantly with evolocumab versus placebo. The overall incidence of AEs was similar between evolocumab and placebo-treated patients, and there were no clinically meaningful differences in changes over time in glycaemic variables (fasting serum glucose and HbA1c) between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with T2DM and hyperlipidaemia or mixed dyslipidaemia on statin, evolocumab significantly reduced LDL-C and other atherogenic lipids, was well tolerated, and had no notable impact on glycaemic measures.

Randomized study of evolocumab in patients with type 2 diabetes and dyslipidaemia on background statin: Pre-specified analysis of the Chinese population from the BERSON clinical trial

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of evolocumab with background atorvastatin in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hyperlipidaemia or mixed dyslipidaemia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a pre-specified analysis of patients in the BERSON study (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02662569) in China. Patients initiated background atorvastatin 20 mg/d, after which they were randomized 2:2:1:1 to evolocumab 140 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W) or 420 mg monthly (QM) or to placebo Q2W or QM. Co-primary endpoints were percentage change in LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) from baseline to week 12 and from baseline to the mean of weeks 10 and 12. Additional endpoints included atherogenic lipids, glycaemic measures and adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

Among 453 patients randomized in China, 451 received at least one dose of study drug (evolocumab or placebo). Evolocumab significantly reduced LDL-C compared with placebo at week 12 (Q2W, -85.0%; QM, -74.8%) and at the mean of weeks 10 and 12 (Q2W, -80.4%; QM, -81.0%) (adjusted P < 0.0001 for all) when administered with background atorvastatin. Non-HDL-C, ApoB100, total cholesterol, Lp(a), triglycerides, HDL-C and VLDL-C significantly improved with evolocumab vs placebo. No new safety findings were observed with evolocumab. The incidence of diabetes AEs was higher with evolocumab compared with placebo. There were no differences over time between evolocumab and placebo in measures of glycaemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients in China with T2DM and hyperlipidaemia or mixed dyslipidaemia receiving background atorvastatin, evolocumab significantly reduced LDL-C and other atherogenic lipids, was well tolerated, and had no notable impact on glycaemic measures.

Efficacy and safety of evolocumab in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: primary results of the randomised controlled BANTING study

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The study aimed to examine the efficacy of 12 weeks of monthly evolocumab or placebo in lowering LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) in individuals with type 2 diabetes and hypercholesterolaemia or mixed dyslipidaemia and on a maximum-tolerated statin of at least moderate intensity.

METHODS

For this randomised, placebo-controlled outpatient study, eligible individuals were ≥18 years old with type 2 diabetes, HbA_1c <10% (86 mmol/mol), had been on stable pharmacological therapy for diabetes for ≥6 months and were taking a maximum-tolerated statin dose of at least moderate intensity. Lipid eligibility criteria varied by history of clinical cardiovascular disease. Participants were randomised 2:1 to evolocumab 420 mg s.c. or placebo. Randomisation was performed centrally via an interactive web-based or voice recognition system. Allocation was concealed using the centralised randomisation process. Treatment assignment was blinded to the sponsor study team, investigators, site staff and patients throughout the study. Co-primary endpoints were mean percentage change in LDL-C from baseline to week 12 and to the mean of weeks 10 and 12. Additional endpoints included LDL-C <1.81 mmol/l, LDL-C reduction ≥50% and other lipids. Exploratory analyses included percentage changes in fasting and post mixed-meal tolerance test (MMTT) lipoproteins and lipids, glucose metabolism variables and inflammatory biomarkers.

RESULTS

In total, 421 individuals were randomised and analysed, having received evolocumab (280 participants) or placebo (141 participants) (mean [SD] age 62 [8] years; 44% women; 77% white). Evolocumab decreased LDL-C by 54.3% (1.4%) at week 12 (vs 1.1% [1.9%] decrease with placebo; p < 0.0001) and by 65.0% (1.3%) at the mean of weeks 10 and 12 (vs 0.8% [1.8%] decrease with placebo; p < 0.0001); it also decreased non-HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) by 46.9% (1.3%) at week 12 (vs 0.6% [1.8%] decrease with placebo) and by 56.6% (1.2%) at the mean of weeks 10 and 12 (vs 0.1% [1.6%] decrease with placebo). Evolocumab significantly improved levels of other lipids and allowed more participants to reach LDL-C <1.81 mmol/l or a reduction in LDL-C levels ≥50%. After an MMTT (120 min), there were favourable changes (p < 0.05; nominal, post hoc, no multiplicity adjustment) in chylomicron triacylglycerol (triglycerides), chylomicron cholesterol, VLDL-C and LDL-C. Evolocumab had no effect on glycaemic variables and was well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In statin-treated individuals with type 2 diabetes and hypercholesterolaemia or mixed dyslipidaemia, evolocumab significantly reduced LDL-C and non-HDL-C. Favourable changes (p < 0.05) were observed in postprandial levels of chylomicrons, VLDL-C and LDL-C.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02739984 FUNDING: This study was funded by Amgen Inc.

DATA AVAILABILITY

Qualified researchers may request data from Amgen clinical studies. Complete details are available at www.amgen.com/datasharing .

Rationale and design of a randomized study to assess the efficacy and safety of evolocumab in patients with diabetes and dyslipidemia: The BERSON clinical trial

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and diabetic dyslipidemia is a major contributor to cardiovascular risk in these patients. Here we report the rationale and design of a phase 3, double-blind study specifically designed to evaluate the lipid-lowering efficacy of the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor evolocumab in patients with T2DM and hyperlipidemia or mixed dyslipidemia who are on background statin therapy. In the BERSON (evolocumaB Efficacy for LDL-C Reduction in subjectS with T2DM On background statiN) trial, patients with T2DM, a screening low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level of ≥ 2.6 mmol/L (≥100 mg/dL) or ≥ 3.4 mmol/L (≥130 mg/dL), and with or without statin treatment at screening, respectively, were enrolled and started on atorvastatin 20 mg/day for a lipid stabilization period of at least 4 weeks. Then, patients were randomly assigned in a 2:2:1:1 ratio to receive atorvastatin 20 mg once daily plus either evolocumab 140 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W), evolocumab 420 mg every month (QM), placebo Q2W, or placebo QM. The co-primary outcome measures were the percentage change from baseline in LDL-C at week 12 and the percentage change from baseline in LDL-C at the mean of weeks 10 and 12. The BERSON trial has completed enrollment. The study completed in the first half of 2018, and will provide information on the efficacy and safety of evolocumab in patients with T2DM and dyslipidemia.

Evaluation of the efficacy, safety and glycaemic effects of evolocumab (AMG 145) in hypercholesterolaemic patients stratified by glycaemic status and metabolic syndrome

AIM

To examine the lipid and glycaemic effects of 52 weeks of treatment with evolocumab.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Durable Effect of PCSK9 Antibody Compared with Placebo Study (DESCARTES) was a 52-week placebo-controlled trial of evolocumab that randomized 905 patients from 88 study centres in 9 countries, with 901 receiving at least one dose of study drug. For this post-hoc analysis, DESCARTES patients were categorized by baseline glycaemic status: type 2 diabetes, impaired fasting glucose (IFG), metabolic syndrome (MetS) or none of these. Monthly subcutaneous evolocumab (420 mg) or placebo was administered. The main outcomes measured were percentage change in LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) at week 52 and safety.

RESULTS

A total of 413 patients had dysglycaemia (120, type 2 diabetes; 293, IFG), 289 had MetS (194 also had IFG) and 393 had none of these conditions. At week 52, evolocumab reduced LDL-C by >50% in all subgroups, with favourable effects on other lipids. No significant differences in fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, insulin, C-peptide or HOMA indices were seen in any subgroup between evolocumab and placebo at week 52. The overall incidence of new-onset diabetes mellitus did not differ between placebo (6.6%) and evolocumab (5.6%); in those with baseline normoglycaemia, the incidences were 1.9% and 2.7%, respectively. Incidences of AEs were similar in evolocumab- and placebo-treated patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Evolocumab showed encouraging safety and efficacy at 52 weeks in patients with or without dysglycaemia or MetS. Changes in glycaemic parameters did not differ between evolocumab- and placebo-treated patients within the glycaemic subgroups examined.

Chronic Oral Study of Myosin Activation to Increase Contractility in Heart Failure (COSMIC-HF): a phase 2, pharmacokinetic, randomised, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Impaired contractility is a feature of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. We assessed the pharmacokinetics and effects on cardiac function and structure of the cardiac myosin activator, omecamtiv mecarbil.

METHODS

In this randomised, double-blind study, done at 87 sites in 13 countries, we recruited patients with stable, symptomatic chronic heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction 40% or lower. Patients were randomly assigned equally, via an interactive web response system, to receive 25 mg oral omecamtiv mecarbil twice daily (fixed-dose group), 25 mg twice daily titrated to 50 mg twice daily guided by pharmacokinetics (pharmacokinetic-titration group), or placebo for 20 weeks. We assessed the maximum concentration of omecamtiv mecarbil in plasma (primary endpoint) and changes in cardiac function and ventricular diameters. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01786512.

FINDINGS

From March 17, 2014, to March 5, 2015, we enrolled 150 patients in the fixed-dose omecamtiv mecarbil group and 149 in the pharmacokinetic-titration and placebo groups. Mean maximum concentration of omecamtiv mecarbil at 12 weeks was 200 (SD 71) ng/mL in the fixed-dose group and 318 (129) ng/mL in the pharmacokinetic-titration group. For the pharmacokinetic-titration group versus placebo group at 20 weeks, least square mean differences were as follows: systolic ejection time 25 ms (95% CI 18-32, p<0·0001), stroke volume 3·6 mL (0·5-6·7, p=0·0217), left ventricular end-systolic diameter -1·8 mm (-2·9 to -0·6, p=0·0027), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter -1·3 mm, (-2·3 to 0·3, p=0·0128), heart rate -3·0 beats per min (-5·1 to -0·8, p=0·0070), and N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide concentration in plasma -970 pg/mL (-1672 to -268, p=0·0069). The frequency of adverse clinical events did not differ between groups.

INTERPRETATION

Omecamtiv mecarbil dosing guided by pharmacokinetics achieved plasma concentrations associated with improved cardiac function and decreased ventricular diameter.

FUNDING

Amgen.

Effects of Evolocumab on Vitamin E and Steroid Hormone Levels

Rationale :

Vitamin E transport and steroidogenesis are closely associated with low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) metabolism, and evolocumab can lower LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) to low levels.

Objective:

To determine the effects of evolocumab on vitamin E and steroid hormone levels.

Methods and Results:

After titration of background lipid-lowering therapy per cardiovascular risk, 901 patients with an LDL-C ≥2.0 mmol/L were randomized to 52 weeks of monthly, subcutaneous evolocumab, or placebo. Vitamin E, cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and gonadal hormones were analyzed at baseline and week 52. In a substudy (n=100), vitamin E levels were also measured in serum, LDL, high-density lipoprotein, and red blood cell membranes at baseline and week 52. Absolute vitamin E decreased in evolocumab-treated patients from baseline to week 52 by 16% but increased by 19% when normalized for cholesterol. In the substudy, vitamin E level changes from baseline to week 52 mirrored the changes in the lipid fraction, and red blood cell membrane vitamin E levels did not change. Cortisol in evolocumab-treated patients increased slightly from baseline to week 52, but adrenocorticotropic hormone and the cortisol:adrenocorticotropic hormone ratio did not change. No patient had a cortisol:adrenocorticotropic hormone ratio <3.0 (nmol/pmol). Among evolocumab-treated patients, gonadal hormones did not change from baseline to week 52. Vitamin E and steroid changes were consistent across subgroups by minimum postbaseline LDL-C <0.4 and <0.6 mmol/L.

Conclusions:

As expected, vitamin E levels changed similarly to lipids among patients treated for 52 weeks with evolocumab. No adverse effects were observed in steroid or gonadal hormones, even at very low LDL-C levels.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT01516879.

A 52-week placebo-controlled trial of evolocumab in hyperlipidemia

BACKGROUND

Evolocumab, a monoclonal antibody that inhibits proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in phase 2 studies. We conducted a phase 3 trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 52 weeks of treatment with evolocumab.

METHODS

We stratified patients with hyperlipidemia according to the risk categories outlined by the Adult Treatment Panel III of the National Cholesterol Education Program. On the basis of this classification, patients were started on background lipid-lowering therapy with diet alone or diet plus atorvastatin at a dose of 10 mg daily, atorvastatin at a dose of 80 mg daily, or atorvastatin at a dose of 80 mg daily plus ezetimibe at a dose of 10 mg daily, for a run-in period of 4 to 12 weeks. Patients with an LDL cholesterol level of 75 mg per deciliter (1.9 mmol per liter) or higher were then randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive either evolocumab (420 mg) or placebo every 4 weeks. The primary end point was the percent change from baseline in LDL cholesterol, as measured by means of ultracentrifugation, at week 52.

RESULTS

Among the 901 patients included in the primary analysis, the overall least-squares mean (±SE) reduction in LDL cholesterol from baseline in the evolocumab group, taking into account the change in the placebo group, was 57.0±2.1% (P<0.001). The mean reduction was 55.7±4.2% among patients who underwent background therapy with diet alone, 61.6±2.6% among those who received 10 mg of atorvastatin, 56.8±5.3% among those who received 80 mg of atorvastatin, and 48.5±5.2% among those who received a combination of 80 mg of atorvastatin and 10 mg of ezetimibe (P<0.001 for all comparisons). Evolocumab treatment also significantly reduced levels of apolipoprotein B, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), and triglycerides. The most common adverse events were nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, influenza, and back pain.

CONCLUSIONS

At 52 weeks, evolocumab added to diet alone, to low-dose atorvastatin, or to high-dose atorvastatin with or without ezetimibe significantly reduced LDL cholesterol levels in patients with a range of cardiovascular risks. (Funded by Amgen; DESCARTES ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01516879.).

Anti-PCSK9 monotherapy for hypercholesterolemia: the MENDEL-2 randomized, controlled phase III clinical trial of evolocumab

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare biweekly and monthly evolocumab with placebo and oral ezetimibe in patients with hypercholesterolemia in a phase III trial.

BACKGROUND

Evolocumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody against proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), significantly reduced LDL-C in phase II trials.

METHODS

Patients 18 to 80 years of age with fasting low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) ≥100 and <190 mg/dl and Framingham risk scores ≤10% were randomized (1:1:1:1:2:2) to oral placebo and subcutaneous (SC) placebo biweekly; oral placebo and SC placebo monthly; ezetimibe and SC placebo biweekly; ezetimibe and SC placebo monthly; oral placebo and evolocumab 140 mg biweekly; or oral placebo and evolocumab 420 mg monthly.

RESULTS

A total of 614 patients were randomized and administered doses. Evolocumab treatment reduced LDL-C from baseline, on average, by 55% to 57% more than placebo and 38% to 40% more than ezetimibe (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Evolocumab treatment also favorably altered other lipoprotein levels. Treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs), muscle-related AEs, and laboratory abnormalities were comparable across treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In the largest monotherapy trial using a PCSK9 inhibitor to date, evolocumab yielded significant LDL-C reductions compared with placebo or ezetimibe and was well tolerated in patients with hypercholesterolemia. (Monoclonal Antibody Against PCSK9 to Reduce Elevated LDL-C in Subjects Currently Not Receiving Drug Therapy for Easing Lipid Levels-2 [MENDEL-2]; NCT01763827).

One-year follow-up healthcare costs of patients hospitalized for transient ischemic attack or ischemic stroke and discharged with aspirin plus extended-release dipyridamole or clopidogrel

OBJECTIVE

To examine healthcare costs among patients hospitalized for transient ischemic attack or ischemic stroke (TIA/stroke) and prescribed aspirin plus extended-release dipyridamole (ASA-ERDP) or clopidogrel (CLOPID) within 30 days post-discharge using a retrospective claims database from a large US managed care organization.

METHODS

Adult patients with ≥1 hospitalizations for TIA/stroke between January 2007-July 2009 and ≥1 claims for an oral anti-platelet (OAP) were observed for 1 year before and after the first TIA/stroke hospitalization or until death, whichever came first. Cohorts were defined by the first claim for ASA-ERDP or CLOPID within 30 days post-discharge. A generalized linear model, adjusting for demographics, baseline comorbidities and costs, compared total follow-up costs (medical + pharmacy) between ASA-ERDP and CLOPID patients.

RESULTS

Of 6377 patients (2085 ASA-ERDP; 4292 CLOPID) who met the selection criteria, mean (SD) age was 69 (13) years and 50% were male. Unadjusted mean total follow-up costs were lower for ASA-ERDP than CLOPID ($26,201 vs $30,349; p=0.002), of which average unadjusted medical and pharmacy costs were $22,094 vs $26,062 (p=0.003) and $4107 vs $4288 (p=0.119), respectively. Multivariate modeling indicated that the following were associated with higher total costs (all p<0.05): higher baseline Quan-Charlson comorbidity score, history of atrial fibrillation and myocardial infarction, index stroke hospitalization, death post-discharge, and index CLOPID use. Adjusted mean total follow-up costs for CLOPID were 9% higher than ASA-ERDP (cost ratio: 1.09; p=0.038).

CONCLUSION

In this study, compared to CLOPID patients, ASA-ERDP patients were observed to have lower total costs 1 year post-discharge TIA/stroke hospitalization, driven primarily by lower medical costs. Further research into the real-world impact of OAP therapies on clinical and economic outcomes of patients with stroke/TIA is warranted. The findings of this study should be considered within the limitations of an administrative claims analysis, as claims data are collected for the purpose of payment.

Treatment patterns and healthcare system burden of managed care patients with suspected pulmonary arterial hypertension in the United States

OBJECTIVES

To describe treatment patterns and healthcare burden among individuals with suspected pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), as identified through a practice guideline-based healthcare claims algorithm.

METHODS

Adults with evidence of PAH from 1 January 2004 (commercial and Medicaid) or 1 July 2006 (Medicare Advantage) through 30 June 2008 were identified. Given the lack of an ICD-9 code for PAH, an algorithm was developed requiring: (1) ≥ 1 claim for PAH medication (index date); (2) ≥ 1 claim with a pulmonary hypertension diagnosis code in the 6-month pre-index period (baseline) or within 90 days post-index; (3) a right heart catheterization or pulmonary hypertension-related inpatient stay during baseline or within 90 days post-index; and (4) continuous health plan enrollment for 6 months pre-index and ≥ 6 months post-index. Patients with PAH-specific medications during baseline were excluded. Treatment patterns, healthcare utilization, and costs were assessed during the period ending with the earlier of health plan disenrollment or 31 December 2008.

RESULTS

Among the 521 included patients, 69% were female. Most patients (94%) initiated treatment with monotherapy (most commonly sildenafil or bosentan), and 12.7% of all patients augmented their therapy by the end of the observation period. The medication possession ratio was 0.96 each for ambrisentan (SD=0.04), bosentan (SD=0.04), and sildenafil (SD=0.05). Overall, 72.6% of patients discontinued therapy with a mean of 149 (SD=170) days until discontinuation. A mean (SD) of 2.14 (1.82) all-cause office and 1.64 (1.98) outpatient visits occurred per patient per month. Mean PAH-related healthcare costs were $6617 per patient per month, comprising 71% of all-cause costs. The guideline-based algorithm may not have perfectly captured patients with PAH.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with suspected PAH were likely to initiate treatment with oral monotherapy, had high compliance rates, and received close ambulatory follow-up. PAH-related costs constituted the majority of all-cause healthcare costs.

Cost and clinical consequences of stress/single-photon emission computed tomography testing with specific medications

BACKGROUND

We identified the cost of care and clinical events using dipyridamole versus adenosine in pharmacological stress (ST)/single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion testing.

METHODS

Commercial health plan members received adenosine or dipyridamole as an adjunct to ST/SPECT testing during the period January 1, 2006, through November 30, 2008. Propensity score matching techniques were used to compare risk-adjusted, test-related complications, symptoms and costs.

RESULTS

A total of 12,351 patients underwent ST/SPECT testing with dipyridamole and 59,969 with adenosine. Risk-adjusted outcomes analysis showed that patients receiving dipyridamole had a higher number of emergency room (ER) visits (0.65 vs. 0.23%, p<0.001) and angina pectoris episodes (7.11 vs. 6.01%, p<0.001). The likelihood of shortness of breath was significantly higher (6.63 vs. 5.77%, p<0.001) in the adenosine group. One-day risk-adjusted, office-visit, outpatient hospital and other utilization costs for same day ST/SPECT testing were higher for the adenosine group. Risk-adjusted ER visit costs were higher for the dipyridamole group ($1276 vs. $1095, p<0.001).

LIMITATIONS

First the presence of a claim for a filled prescription does not indicate that the medication was consumed or taken as prescribed. Second, medications filled over-the-counter or provided as samples will not be observed in the claims data. Third, presence of diagnosis codes on medical claims are not positive presence of disease, as diagnosis codes may be incorrectly coded or included as rule-out criteria rather than actual disease. Finally, certain information is not readily available in claims data that could have an effect on study outcomes, such as certain clinical and disease-specific parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in complications and symptoms may help identify a better-tolerated vasodilator drug (VD) for use in pharmacologic stress testing based on a patient's history and symptoms. Implementation of a data-based strategy for the selection of the most appropriate stress-testing adjunctive agent may be a cost-effective step for institutions and health plans.