scholarly journals Tapering Eltrombopag in Patients with Chronic ITP: How Successful Is This and in Whom Does It Work?

Blood ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 126 (23) ◽  
pp. 1054-1054 ◽  
Author(s):  
James B. Bussel ◽  
Shah N. Mahmud ◽  
Sophie L Brigstocke ◽  
Sarah M Torneten

Abstract Background: Thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RA) eg eltrombopag (Epag), are highly effective treatments of ITP as demonstrated in multiple randomized studies. Studies have shown effective and safe long-term use; toxicity appears tolerable with thromboembolism the most common serious adverse event. An important question is if there will be an indefinite long-term need for treatment with these agents once initiated. The aim of this study is to taper eltrombopag in a single arm study to determine how many and which patients will be able to discontinue treatment over time. It specifically targets patients with adequate counts ie 50-100,000/uL, not waiting for patients whose counts spontaneously increase to high levels and thus indicate that they are being over-dosed. Methods: All patients on eltrombopag at doses of 75 mg daily or less for at least 4 months were offered study entry; only one refused. Initially the study tapered Epag rapidly but then changed to slow tapering over up to 2 years. Patients whose platelet counts were >50,000/uL were tapered at 4 week intervals in 10-20% dose increments. Tapering could be postponed for clinical reasons ie impending procedure or trip, infection skewing count, sports or other physical activity, etc. Analysis was descriptive and t test comparisons used to assess variables associated with successful tapering. Results: Patients were divided into 3 groups: 10 responders (those able to discontinue eltrombopag completely within 2 years, fig 1A), 10 tapering (those still tapering who have reduced their medication but not discontinued it, fig 1B), and 12 non-responders (those who tried and failed to discontinue within 2 years). To complete being a responder required >12 weeks without any ITP treatment, platelet count > 30,000/uL and 20,000/uL more than baseline after the last dose of eltrombopag. Eight of the 10 responders have remained off therapy for more than 1 year with platelet counts consistently > 50,000/uL. No medication was provided in the study. No serious AEs occurred and no serious bleeding events were seen. Fig 1a illustrates the discontinuation of eltrombopag treatment in responders: 4 discontinued within 8 weeks while the longest discontinuation required a full 2 years. Fig 1b shows patients who are tapering eltrombopag but have not reached 2 years by indicating how many are on <70% and <40% of their starting doses; it shows that tapering is typically a slow process but that at least dose reduction can be achieved in many patients even if they do not discontinue their eltrombopag. Table 1 compares means and medians of the 3 groups for a number of clinical variables. While the numbers are small and the results preliminary, it surprisingly shows that patients who have been on eltrombopag longer prior to tapering and those who have received more treatments are more likely to successfully discontinue eltrombopag. In contrast, non-responders failed splenectomy and rituximab more often than did those tapering and responders. Finally AIPF at initiation of study did not predict a successful taper. Summary: A substantial fraction of patients with chronic ITP will be able to successfully taper off eltrombopag; the exact number (somewhere between 10 and 20 of the 32 patients) depends upon the group still tapering. The tapering schedule selected is slow and requires regular monitoring and individualization/flexibility. Even if patients do not fully taper off eltrombopag, they may be able to substantially reduce their dose. We speculate that tapering eltrombopag as outlined here may reduce the toxicity and costs of long-term treatment without diminishing hemostatic efficacy. Table 1. Comparison Table (Responders, Tapering, Non-Responders) Responders (n=10) Tapering (n=10) Non-Responders (n=12) Age (years) (median/average) 29/37.4 11/25.70 21/30.58 Gender (m/f) 3/7 6/4 5/7 Duration ITP (years) (median/average) 8.75/11.95 5.5/17.45 7/8.25 Duration of TPO-RA Therapy (years) (median/average) 5/4.2 5.5/7.45 2.5/3.38 # of prior ITP treatments (median/average) 4.5/5.5 2/2.14 3.5/3.83 # of patients with previous splenectomy 4 0 6 patients with previous Rituximab treatments 5 4 9 Baseline AIPF (tapering counts) (*10E2/uL) (median/average) 81.75/75.5 63/57.43 75/69 Figure 1. Figure 1. Figure 2. Figure 2. Disclosures Bussel: Immunomedics: Research Funding; Shionogi: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Ligand: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Sysmex: Research Funding; Eisai: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Cangene: Research Funding; Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Genzyme: Research Funding; BiologicTx: Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Momenta: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Symphogen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Protalex: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

Blood ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 114 (22) ◽  
pp. 891-891 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ilene Ceil Weitz ◽  
Miguel A Sanz ◽  
David H. Henry ◽  
Martin Schipperus ◽  
Bertrand Godeau ◽  
...  

Abstract Abstract 891 Background: Chronic Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is characterized by low platelet counts and increased risk of bleeding. Rescue medications used to treat or prevent bleeding produce transient increases in platelet counts but may be associated with additional toxicities and costs. Romiplostim, approved for the treatment of adult chronic ITP, is a TPO mimetic peptibody protein that increases platelet production. Previously published data from phase 3 romiplostim trials showed that despite the increased use of rescue medication in the placebo arm, patient (pt) incidence of bleeding was reduced in the romiplostim arm vs placebo arm: 15% vs 34% (p = 0.02) for bleeding of grade ≥2 severity and 7% vs 12% (p=0.36) for grade ≥3 severity. Objective: To evaluate the effects of romiplostim treatment on bleeding outcomes in the phase 3 placebo controlled studies in chronic ITP pts with and without previous splenectomy. Bleeding events were captured as adverse events making it difficult to identify a single event reported multiple times versus persistent or recurrent bleeding. Further, we have developed a composite endpoint, termed bleeding-related episodes (BREs), which combines bleeding events and rescue medication administration to account for use of rescue medications to prevent bleeding. Methods: Adults with chronic ITP and a mean baseline platelet count <30 × 109/L were eligible. The previously published studies were conducted separately in splenectomized and nonsplenectomized populations. Pts were randomized (2:1) to receive romiplostim or placebo by subcutaneous injection once weekly for 24 weeks, with dose adjustments to maintain platelet counts between 50-200 × 109/L. Rescue medications were permitted to treat or prevent bleeding and included immunoglobulins, platelet transfusions, corticosteroids, or an increase in dose or frequency of a concurrent ITP medication. A BRE was defined as an actual bleeding event and/or the use of rescue medication. To collapse related events into episodes, events (bleeding events and/or the use of rescue medication) that occurred concurrently or within 3 days of each other were considered a single BRE. Bleeding events beginning 7 or more days after the start of the initial bleeding event were considered a new BRE. To account for differences in time spent on-study, rates of BRE per 100 pt-weeks were calculated. Results: A total of 125 pts (41 placebo, 84 romiplostim) were enrolled in the two studies. Baseline characteristics were well-balanced between the placebo and romiplostim-treated groups. During the treatment period, the rate of BREs was lower in the romiplostim group than in the placebo group, and results were consistent between splenectomized and nonsplenectomized pts (Table). Across both studies, the rate of BREs was reduced by 55% in pts receiving romiplostim compared to those receiving placebo (95% CI, 41% to 65%). BREs were more frequent at platelet counts <50 × 109/L (Table). BREs associated with hospitalizations were less common among romiplostim- than placebo-treated pts, and occurred at platelet counts <50 × 109/L in 10 of 11 cases. Corticosteroids (58 romiplostim, 38 placebo) and immunoglobulins (30 romiplostim, 73 placebo), were the most commonly used rescue medications and the rate of BREs including immunoglobulins was reduced by 88% in pts receiving romiplostim compared to placebo. Conclusions: In adults with chronic ITP, romiplostim was associated with a significant reduction in BREs compared to placebo. There was a marked reduction in BREs requiring immunoglobulins in the romiplostim arm compared to the placebo arm. Results were comparable in splenectomized and nonsplenectomized populations. The platelet count for a BRE starting ≥1 day after a platelet count measurement was calculated from the 2 proximal weekly measurements. Disclosures: Weitz: Amgen Inc.: Speakers Bureau. Sanz:Amgen Inc.: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Henry:Amgen Inc.: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Orthobiotech: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Watson Pharma: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Schipperus:Amgen Inc.: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Godeau:Amgen Inc.: Consultancy, Research Funding; Laboratoire Français de Fractionnement et de Biotechnologies (LFB): Consultancy; Roche: Research Funding. Gleeson:Amgen Inc.: Consultancy, Research Funding. Danese:Amgen Inc.: Consultancy, Research Funding. Deuson:Amgen Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership.


Blood ◽  
2013 ◽  
Vol 122 (21) ◽  
pp. 5581-5581
Author(s):  
Normand Blais ◽  
Charles A. Butts ◽  
Mark A. Crowther ◽  
Nanette Cox-Kennett ◽  
Josée Martineau

Abstract Introduction Cancer associated thrombosis (CAT) is the second leading cause of death in cancer patients after death from cancer. Despite multiple available guidelines for CAT management, there remains variability in treatment practices. In order to gain insight on this variability in Canada, a survey was conducted to identify the perceived importance of managing CAT, identify differences in the pharmacological management of CAT, highlight the main barriers to optimal extended treatment and prevention of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE), outline challenges associated with long term treatment adherence, and identify predictors of patient non-adherence. Methods A survey was designed targeting physicians involved in the management of CAT. The questionnaire included queries on physician practice, 37 items related to beliefs and attitudes about extended treatment for prevention of recurrence of VTE, and a 30-item patient-specific profile. Results Responses were obtained from 21 professionals from four Canadian provinces (Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario, and Alberta); 76% were hematologists and/or oncologists, 14% were internists and 10% were pharmacists. Community and academic centers were well represented. Specific management profiles were obtained for 131 patients. Most care givers felt that VTE recurrence was an important issue deserving extended therapy for most patients. Although more than 90% believed bleeding and recurrent VTE risk should influence the length of treatment, only 62% believe that VTE recurrence risk should modify the type of treatment and 52% were concerned of the risk of bleeding with long term therapy (≥6 months). 71% of respondents believed patients’ lack of awareness of the risk of recurrent VTE reduces adherence to anticoagulant therapy for extended treatment of VTE. Although 100% of respondents detailed giving verbal patient counseling, only 19% provided written information to patients. 95% stated they assessed compliance verbally; less than 20% used more objective measures (pharmacy records, laboratory monitoring). Participants admitted to using results of clinical trials (95%) more than clinical guidelines (48%) as most felt that the published guidelines contained conflicting recommendations. The main drivers of treatment choice were clinical evidence, efficacy, and personal experience. No respondents indicated they preferred to use oral anticoagulants for extended therapy of CAT and 43% believed that LMWHs should not be used interchangeably. Most (95%) stated they follow-up with patients directly to reassess therapy after 3-6 months of treatment. The patient profile information showed the median age of patients was 62 years and 60% were female. Lung cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer, and lymphoma were the most common tumor sites and accounted for 50% of described cases. Cases of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) were evenly represented and 82% were symptomatic. Most events were temporally related to cancer therapy (69%), presence of a central venous catheter (18%), and recent surgery (17%). Less than 5% of these cases presented with a contraindication to anticoagulation therapy (severe thrombocytopenia, active bleeding) at CAT diagnosis. Most patients were treated in the outpatient setting. Nonetheless, hospitalization was required in 33% of cases with an average patient stay of 10.8 days. Hospitalized patients were preferentially treated with LMWH (84%) and usually stayed on the same regimen upon discharge (8.3 ± 6.4 months). Long term treatment was largely managed with LMWHs (most frequently dalteparin – 80% of all treated patients) while few were managed with vitamin K antagonists (6%) or novel direct antithrombotics (2%). Anticoagulant therapy for outpatients was prescribed for 9.0 ± 7.7 months after the most recent VTE episode. Conclusion In Canada, CAT is believed to be an important complication of cancer. Extended therapy is indicated for most patients with CAT.  Although bleeding risk is perceived as an important reason to modify therapy, contraindications to LMWHs were rare in the reported cases. Uptake of outpatient therapy of CAT is widespread in this country, yet hospitalization is still frequently required at diagnosis and is associated with prolonged inpatient stays. Even if non-adherence to antithrombotic therapy was believed to be rare among patients with CAT, this was rarely rigorously monitored. Disclosures: Blais: Pfizer: Consultancy; Sanofi: Consultancy; Leo: Consultancy. Butts:Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Crowther:Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Octapharma: Consultancy, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Merck: Consultancy; Leo Pharma: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; CSL Behring: Speakers Bureau; Boehringer Ingelheim: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Baxter: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Asahi Kasai: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Sanofi-Aventis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Viropharma: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees. Cox-Kennett:Pfizer: honorarium as a speaker Other. Martineau:Pfizer: honorarium as a speaker Other; Boehringer: honorarium as a speaker, honorarium as a speaker Other; Bayer: honorarium as a speaker, honorarium as a speaker Other; Sanofi: honorarium as a speaker and participated in clinical trial, honorarium as a speaker and participated in clinical trial Other; BMS: honorarium as a speaker Other.


Blood ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 120 (21) ◽  
pp. 2198-2198
Author(s):  
Mansoor N Saleh ◽  
Gregory Cheng ◽  
James B Bussel ◽  
Paul Burgess ◽  
Kalpana Bakshi ◽  
...  

Abstract Abstract 2198 Background: Eltrombopag is an oral thrombopoietin receptor agonist approved for treatment of chronic ITP. Eltrombopag safely increased platelets and reduced bleeding in 6-week and 6-month placebo-controlled trials in patients with previously treated chronic ITP. EXTEND is an ongoing, open-label extension study of the safety and efficacy of long-term treatment with eltrombopag in chronic ITP patients who completed a previous eltrombopag study. Methods: Patients had received eltrombopag or placebo in a prior study. Eltrombopag was started at 50 mg and titrated to between 75 and 25 mg daily or less often, based on platelet counts. Patients were considered to have completed EXTEND if they had received ≥2 years of therapy and transitioned off due to commercial availability of eltrombopag, whether or not they continued with treatment. The study started in June 2006, and an update on long-term safety and efficacy up to February 2012 is presented. Results: Of 302 patients enrolled, 31% (95) completed the study, 48% (146) withdrew, and 20% (61) remain on study. The most common reasons for withdrawal were adverse events (AEs, 14%), patient decision (14%), and lack of efficacy (11%). Platelet counts at baseline were ≤15,000/μL (43%), >15,000-<30,000/μL (27%), 30,000–50,000/μL (17%), and >50,000/μL (13%); 38% were splenectomized, 33% were receiving concomitant ITP medication, and 53% had received ≥3 previous ITP therapies. 253 patients were treated for ≥6 months, 217 for ≥1 year, 176 for ≥2 years, and 59 for ≥4 years; 10 patients (3%) were treated for ≥5 years. Median duration of exposure was 121 weeks (range, 0.3–285 weeks), and median average daily dose was 51.4 mg. Overall, 85% (257/302) of patients achieved a platelet count ≥50,000/μL in the absence of rescue therapy, and 62% of patients achieved platelets ≥50,000/μL for ≥50% of on-treatment weeks. The proportion of patients achieving platelets ≥50,000/μL was similar regardless of baseline splenectomy status: splenectomy, 80% vs no splenectomy, 88%. Median platelet counts increased to ≥50,000/μL by Week 2 and remained consistently ≥50,000/μL through Week 241. The incidence of any bleeding symptoms (WHO grades 1–4) decreased from 57% at baseline to 16% at Week 52, 19% at Week 104, 12% at Week 156, and 14% at Week 208. Clinically significant bleeding (WHO grades 2–4) decreased from 17% at baseline to 4%, 5%, 0%, and 0% at Weeks 52, 104, 156, and 208, respectively. AEs and serious AEs (SAEs) occurred in 91% (275) and 29% (89) of patients, respectively. The most frequent AEs were headache (27%), nasopharyngitis (24%), and upper respiratory tract infection (22%). 43 patients (14%) were withdrawn due to AEs, 29 (10%) of which were SAEs. Twenty-five thromboembolic events (TEEs) were reported in 19 patients (6%); the incidence rate is 2.70/100 patient years (95% CI, 1.62–4.21). Observed TEEs were deep vein thrombosis (10), central nervous system ischemic events (7), myocardial infarction (5), and pulmonary embolism (3). No association has been observed with elevated platelet counts, as only 3/19 patients experienced the TEE at or shortly after their maximum platelet count achieved on study. Hepatobiliary laboratory abnormalities (HBLAs) meeting drug-induced liver injury screening criteria (FDA Guidance for Industry Drug-Induced Liver Injury, 2009) were reported in 36 patients (12%). None were associated with signs of liver impairment, and most resolved either while on treatment or after discontinuation. Eight patients were withdrawn as a result of HBLA. An independent central pathology review of bone marrow (BM) biopsies stained for reticulin from 113 patients treated with eltrombopag for up to 4.75 years revealed no clinically relevant increase in reticulin deposition. 2 patients (2%) had maximum reticulin grade of ≥MF-2 after >24 months on treatment; neither experienced any AE or abnormality in hematologic parameters potentially related to impaired BM function. Conclusions: Eltrombopag was effective in increasing and maintaining platelets ≥50,000/μL and reducing bleeding symptoms in patients with chronic ITP. Eltrombopag was well tolerated with exposures up to 5.5 years. Rates of TEE and HBLA have not increased with longer time on treatment, and analyses of BM biopsies revealed no clinically significant increase in reticulin deposition. No new safety signals were observed in this long-term study. Long-term safety and efficacy continue to be assessed. Disclosures: Cheng: GlaxoSmithKline: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Bussel:Amgen: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Cangene: Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Genzyme: Research Funding; IgG of America: Research Funding; Immunomedics: Research Funding; Ligand: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Eisai, Inc: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Shinogi: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Symphogen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Sysmex: Research Funding; Portola: Consultancy. Burgess:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership. Bakshi:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership. Brainsky:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership, Patents & Royalties. Bailey:GlaskoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership.


Blood ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 114 (22) ◽  
pp. 4063-4063 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Domenica Cappellini ◽  
Silverio Perrotta ◽  
Leyla Agaoglu ◽  
Yesim Aydinok ◽  
Marcello Capra ◽  
...  

Abstract Abstract 4063 Poster Board III-998 Background In a large, 1-yr Phase 3 clinical trial, patients (pts) with β-thalassemia (aged ≥2 yrs) were randomized to receive deferasirox (Exjade®) or deferoxamine (DFO), with doses assigned according to baseline liver iron concentration (LIC). Pts completing the 1-yr core were permitted to enter a 4-yr extension; those receiving deferasirox continued on this therapy (deferasirox cohort), while those receiving DFO crossed over to deferasirox (crossover cohort). This analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of deferasirox over 5 yrs. Methods Based on analyses showing that iron burden and transfusional iron intake need to be considered for appropriate dosing of deferasirox, dose adjustments were permitted in the extension to ensure optimal dosing. Deferasirox dose in the extension was initially based on dose response in the core (deferasirox cohort only) and end-of-core LIC (biopsy or SQUID); subsequent adjustments in steps of 5–10 mg/kg/day were based on serum ferritin (SF) levels and safety markers. Efficacy was assessed by monthly SF levels and LIC at baseline, end of 1-year core and end of study (EOS) (or upon discontinuation). Safety was assessed by incidence and type of adverse events (AEs) and changes in laboratory parameters. Results 296 pts (deferasirox cohort) and 259 pts (crossover cohort) received ≥1 dose of deferasirox; 181 (61%) & 190 (73%) pts from each cohort respectively completed the extension. Most common reasons for discontinuation: consent withdrawal (n=62) and AEs (n=43). Most common AEs leading to discontinuation: increased ALT [n=5], increased transaminases [n=4], glycosuria [n=4]. 2 deaths occurred during the extension in the deferasirox cohort (cardiac failure, cardiomyopathy); 2 in the crossover cohort (cardio-respiratory arrest, road traffic accident); none considered to be related to study drug. Median duration of deferasirox treatment was 61.2 & 48.1 mths in deferasirox & crossover cohorts, respectively. At start of deferasirox, mean LIC was 14.0 ± 9.8 & 10.4 ± 7.6 mg Fe/g dry weight (dw) and median SF was 2211 & 1758 ng/mL in deferasirox and crossover cohorts, respectively. Transfusion requirements at start of deferasirox were comparable; most pts (81% & 83%, respectively) receiving 7–14 mL/kg/mth. Mean deferasirox dose during study: 21.6 ± 6.4 & 23.2 ± 5.9 mg/kg/d (final actual dose: 24.4 ± 8.7 & 27.0 ± 8.0 mg/kg/d) in deferasirox and crossover groups, respectively. Most pts were receiving 15–<35 mg/kg/day at EOS (75% & 78%, respectively); 11% & 17% were receiving ≥35 mg/kg/day. In pts who received at least 5 yrs of deferasirox and at least 4 yrs in the crossover group, mean absolute change in LIC were –5.3 ± 10.1 mg Fe/g dw (n=173; P<0.001) & –2.4 ± 7.6 mg Fe/g dw (n=99; P<0.001) and median absolute change in SF were –775 ng/mL (range: –10164–2572; n=182; P<0.001) & –371 ng/mL (range: –4498–2636; n=151; P<0.001), respectively (Figure). Percentage of pts with LIC<7 mg Fe/g dw increased from 35% to 45% & SF≤1000 ng/mL increased from 12% to 33% from the start of deferasirox to EOS (LIC: EOS, last available value; SF: EOS, average of at most 3 available values after start of deferasirox). Most common drug-related AEs (≥5% overall) after start of deferasirox in deferasirox & crossover cohort, respectively: increased blood creatinine (n=42, 14%; n=20, 8%), nausea (n=28, 10%; n=13, 5%), vomiting (n=18, 6%; n=17, 7%), diarrhea (n=13, 4%; n=15, 6%) & rash (n=17, 6%; n=19, 7%). Frequency of drug-related AEs decreased from year to year. In deferasirox & crossover cohorts, 26 (9%) & 11 (4%) pts had 2 consecutive serum creatinine increases >33% above baseline & upper limit of normal (ULN) & 3 (1%) & 2 (1%) pts had ALT >10 x ULN on 2 consecutive visits, respectively, after start of deferasirox. Conclusions Long-term treatment with deferasirox (for up to 5 yrs) significantly decreased iron burden in β-thalassemia pts aged ≥2 yrs with an increasing percentage of pts achieving therapeutic goals of LIC<7 mg Fe/g dw and SF≤1000 ng/mL. Significant improvements in LIC and SF were also observed after switching from DFO. Deferasirox was well tolerated over this long-term treatment, and the frequency of AEs decreased over time. Disclosures: Cappellini: Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Genzyme: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Perrotta:Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding. Aydinok:Novartis: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Porter:Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Vifor International: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Piga:Novartis: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Apopharma: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Griffel:Novartis Pharmaceuticals: Employment, Equity Ownership. Lagrone:Novartis Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Clark:Novartis Pharma AG: Employment. Kattamis:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau.


Blood ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 114 (22) ◽  
pp. 680-680 ◽  
Author(s):  
George R. Buchanan ◽  
Lisa Bomgaars ◽  
James B. Bussel ◽  
Diane J. Nugent ◽  
David J. Gnarra ◽  
...  

Abstract Abstract 680 Introduction: ITP is an autoimmune disorder characterized by thrombocytopenia due to accelerated destruction as well as suboptimal platelet production. Childhood ITP is most commonly an acute illness; however, chronic ITP (duration > 6 months) develops in 20%–30% of ITP cases. Romiplostim, a peptibody protein designed to increase platelet production, is approved for treating chronic ITP in adults. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of romiplostim in the treatment of thrombocytopenia in children with chronic ITP. Patients and Methods: ITP patients aged 12 months to <18 years with persistent severe thrombocytopenia for at least six months before enrollment (mean of 2 platelet counts ≥ 30 × 109/L at baseline) were included in this study. Patients were randomized (3:1) to receive romiplostim or placebo and stratified by age: 12 months - <3 years (N=4), 3 - <12 years (N=8), and 12 - <18 years (N=8). Treatment for a 12 week period was followed by a 4 week pharmacokinetic (PK) assessment period for responding patients (those who achieved a platelet count of >20 × 109/L above baseline for 2 consecutive weeks without rescue therapy at any point during the treatment period). Treatment was initiated at 1 μg/kg once weekly by subcutaneous injection. The dose was adjusted in 2 μg/kg increments every two weeks, to a maximum dose of 10 μg/kg/week based on weekly platelet counts. The incidence of adverse events (AEs) during the 12-week treatment period and the number of patients achieving platelet counts >50 × 109/L for 2 consecutive weeks during the treatment period, or achieving an increase in platelet count >20 × 109/L above baseline for 2 consecutive weeks during the treatment period was recorded. Results: A total of 22 (romiplostim, 17; placebo, 5) patients were randomized; 16 (73%) were boys and 6 (27%) were girls. Eight patients had undergone splenectomy. The mean age was 9.5 (SD: 5.1) years, with 4 subjects aged 12 months - <3 years, 10 aged 3 - <12 years, and 8 aged 12 - <18 years. The median baseline platelet count was 13 × 109/L (range 2 to 29 × 109/L) and the median duration of ITP was 2.4 years (range 0.6 to 14 years). All patients completed the study. Sixteen of 17 patients in the romiplostim arm (94%) and 5/5 in the placebo arm (100%) had at least 1 AE during the treatment period. The most common AEs were (romiplostim, placebo, respectively) headache (35%, 40%), epistaxis (35%, 20%), cough (12%, 40%), and vomiting (12%, 40%). Serious AEs were experienced by 1 patient in the romiplostim arm (moderate influenza and sepsis) and none in the placebo arm. AEs considered to be treatment related were reported for 3 (18%) and 1 (20%) subjects in the romiplostim and placebo arms, respectively; none of the treatment-related AEs were serious or of ≥3 grade severity. No patients died during the study and none tested positive for neutralizing antibodies to romiplostim or thrombopoietin. The same group of patients in the romiplostim-treated arm (15/17, 88.2%, 95% CI: 63.6%, 98.5%) achieved both efficacy endpoints during the treatment period. The median platelet count in the romiplostim-treated arm after 6 weeks of treatment was ≥50 × 109/L. The median weekly platelet count in the placebo arm remained stable at approximately 10 × 109/L. None of the placebo-treated patients achieved either platelet count endpoint. Rescue medication was administered to 2/17 (12%) of romiplostim- and 2/5 (40%) of placebo-treated patients during the 12 week treatment period. Twelve (71%) and 2 (40%) subjects in the romiplostim and placebo arms, respectively, experienced bleeding events. The majority of bleeding events (15/17) in the romiplostim arm occurred in the first 6 weeks of treatment. Most bleeding events (14/17) in the romiplostim arm and all bleeding events in the placebo arm occurred when the platelet count was < 30 × 109/L. A total of 14 patients treated with romiplostim entered the PK assessment period. The romiplostim serum concentration results were not different among the 3 age cohorts. The mean weekly dose of romiplostim in the treatment period was 3.4 (SD: 1.6) μg/kg. Conclusion: Treatment with romiplostim appeared to be well tolerated in pediatric ITP patients, with no new safety concerns observed in this study as compared to adults with chronic ITP. Romiplostim was effective in treating thrombocytopenia in children with chronic ITP. Disclosures: Buchanan: Amgen Inc.: Research Funding. Off Label Use: Use of romiplostim, a thrombopoietin mimetic, in treatment of thrombocytopenia in pediatric ITP patients. . Bomgaars:Novartis: Research Funding. Bussel:Eisai, Inc: Research Funding; Sysmex: Research Funding; Shionogi: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Ligand: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Immunomedics: Research Funding; Amgen: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Cangene: Research Funding; Genzyme: Research Funding; Scienta: Speakers Bureau. Nie:Amgen Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Eisen:Amgen Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Berger:Amgen Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership.


Blood ◽  
2010 ◽  
Vol 116 (21) ◽  
pp. 4237-4237 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert A Brodsky ◽  
Carlos de Castro ◽  
Hubert Schrezenmeier ◽  
Antonio M. Risitano ◽  
Joerg Schubert ◽  
...  

Abstract Abstract 4237 PNH is a chronic, life-threatening, acquired disease associated with deficiency of GPI-anchored complement inhibitory proteins on blood cells. The resulting defective regulation of terminal complement activation is responsible for hemolysis and can lead to thromboembolism (TE), chronic kidney disease (CKD) and pulmonary hypertension. The risk of TE is high, with an observed 6.24 venous TE events per 100 patient years, or approximately 62-fold higher compared to the general population: in fact, TE accounts for 40–67% of PNH related deaths. The effectiveness of anticoagulation (AC) in PNH patients (pts) is uncertain, as AC treated PNH may still experience TE. The terminal complement inhibitor eculizumab reduces intravascular hemolysis rapidly and significantly; it also leads to a reduction in TE events, pulmonary hypertension and improvements in CKD and quality of life. Here, we report on prolonged treatment of PNH patients with eculizumab for safety and sustained patient outcomes. Methods: All pts (N=195) in the PNH eculizumab clinical trials (Pilot (N=11), TRIUMPH (N=87) and SHEPHERD (N=97)) and subsequent Extension studies were assessed for long term safety and efficacy. Median age was 40 yrs, 54% female, 29% had a history of aplastic anemia and 1.5% with history of myelodysplasia. TE was reported in 32% (63/195) of pts prior to eculizumab treatment. There was high adherence to long term treatment; 90% (175/195) of pts completed the parent and extension trials. Results: The median eculizumab treatment duration was 29 mo (1 -66; IQR:23-32m); with a total eculizumab exposure of 474.1 patient-years. Intravascular hemolysis was rapidly reduced in 100% of pts after eculizumab treatment. LDH was reduced from a median of 2,133 U/L (∼10x ULN) at baseline to 310 U/L at 1 month of treatment (P<0.0001) and was sustained at 272U/L at 36 months (P<0.0001). There was an 81% (P<0.0005) reduction in TE events from 52 pre treatment events to 10 trial events using a match time analysis (P<0.0005). Of the 7 (7/195) pts who experienced a TE on drug, 5 had a history of TE and 2 were concomitantly treated with AC. Of pts treated with AC, 59% (58/98) experienced at least 1 TE prior to treatment. In 11 pts who discontinued AC, there were no TE reported with eculizumab treatment during or following AC discontinuation. Prevalence of CKD was reduced from 69% of pts at baseline to 31% (n=29) after 36 months of treatment, consistent with previous results. A fraction of pts still require blood transfusions and a fraction of pts, even without need for blood transfusions, had no significant increase (>1gm/dL) in steady state hemoglobin level over baseline. Eculizumab was well tolerated. Twenty pts (∼10%) did not complete the trial including 9 pts following a reported adverse event (AE). In 16 week follow-up to the 20 pts who discontinued eculizumab treatment, TE was reported in 3 pts, including 1 death. Most AEs (95%) were mild or moderate in severity and 90.8% of adverse events were deemed unrelated to study drug. Frequent AEs were: nasopharyngitis, (40%); headache (37%) and upper respiratory tract infection, (31%). There were 2 cases of meningococcal sepsis and both were successfully treated without sequelae. Serious infections were reported in 21% of pts and 2 pts discontinued therapy due to infections (meningococcal, staphylococcal sepsis: both resolved). Most commonly reported serious infections included pyrexia (4.6%) and viral (3.1%), lower respiratory tract (1.5%) and urinary tract (1.5%) infections. There were 4 patient deaths during treatment. Three deaths were considered not related to study drug and 1 possibly related to study drug by the investigator. Causes of death were progression from myelodysplasia to chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, adenoma progressing to adenocarcinoma, brain herniation following trauma injury, and TE of the small bowel. Conclusion: Long term treatment of PNH pts with eculizumab is associated with a favorable benefit/risk ratio and the clinical benefits demonstrated at earlier timepoints are sustained over 36 months. Improvement in TE and CKD was maintained over 36 months when compared to baseline and previous published data. Considering that thrombosis and CKD have been demonstrated to be significant causes of death in PNH, it is reasonable to expect that eculizumab treatment, by decreasing the risk of thrombosis and improving renal function, may increase the life expectancy of PNH pts. Disclosures: Brodsky: Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. de Castro:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Speakers Bureau. Schrezenmeier:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Risitano:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Schubert:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Consultancy, Honoraria. Maciejewski:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Consultancy. Duehrsen:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Honoraria, Research Funding. Luzzatto:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Muus:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Szer:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Socié:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Consultancy. Hillmen:Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding.


Blood ◽  
2011 ◽  
Vol 118 (21) ◽  
pp. 3296-3296 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mansoor N Saleh ◽  
Gregory Cheng ◽  
James B Bussel ◽  
Paul Burgess ◽  
Lisa Marcello ◽  
...  

Abstract Abstract 3296 Background: Eltrombopag is an oral, nonpeptide thrombopoietin receptor agonist approved for treatment of chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). In 6-week, and 6-month, placebo-controlled trials, eltrombopag safely increased platelets and reduced bleeding in patients (pts) with previously treated chronic ITP. EXTEND is an ongoing, open-label extension study of the safety and efficacy of long-term treatment with eltrombopag in chronic ITP pts. Methods: Pts had received eltrombopag or placebo in one of the following studies: TRA100773A or B (6-weeks), RAISE (6-months), or REPEAT (intermittent treatment). The EXTEND study was designed to: 1) identify an individual dose that increases platelets to ≥100,000/μL to support reduction of concomitant ITP medications, 2) identify a minimal dose of eltrombopag and concomitant ITP medication to maintain platelets ≥50,000/μL, and 3) evaluate long-term safety and efficacy. Pts completed the study if they completed ≥2 years of therapy and transitioned off study due to commercial availability of eltrombopag. Results: Of 301 pts enrolled, 21% (63) completed the study, 48% (143) withdrew, and 32% (95) remain on study. The most common reasons for withdrawal were adverse events (AEs, 14%), pt decision (13%), and lack of efficacy (11%). At baseline, platelet counts were ≤15,000/μL, >15,000-<30,000/μL, 30,000–50,000/μL, and >50,000/μL in 43%, 27%, 17%, and 13% of pts, respectively; 38% were splenectomized, 34% were receiving concomitant ITP medication, and 53% had received ≥3 previous ITP therapies. As of this report, 252, 215, 176, and 84 pts had been treated for ≥6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years, respectively. Twenty-three pts (8%) were treated for ≥4 years. Median duration of exposure was 121 weeks (range, 0.3–237 weeks). Overall, 88% (264/301) of pts achieved a platelet count ≥50,000/μL at least once. The proportion of pts achieving on-treatment platelets ≥50,000/μL was similar regardless of the following baseline characteristics: splenectomy vs no splenectomy (85% vs 89%); use vs no use of ITP medication (89% vs 87%); and platelet counts (<30,000/μL, 84%; 30,000–50,000/μL, 98%; >50,000/μL, 95%). Median platelet counts increased to ≥50,000/μL by week 2 and remained consistently ≥50,000/μL through week 208. The incidence of any bleeding symptoms (WHO grades 1–4) decreased from 56% at baseline to 16%, 19%, and 9% at weeks 52, 104, and 156, respectively. Clinically significant bleeding (WHO grades 2–4) decreased from 16% at baseline to 3%, 5%, and 0% at weeks 52, 104, and 156, respectively. AEs and serious AEs (SAEs) occurred in 89% (269) and 29% (86) of pts, respectively. The most frequent AEs were headache (27%), nasopharyngitis (24%), and upper respiratory tract infection (21%). Forty pts (13%) had AEs leading to withdrawal; 28 (9%) had SAEs leading to withdrawal. Twenty-five thromboembolic events (TEEs) have been reported in 19 pts (6%); the incidence rate is 3.02/100 pt years (95% CI [1.82–4.71]). Observed TEEs were deep vein thrombosis (10), central nervous system ischemic events (7), myocardial infarction (5), and pulmonary embolism (3). No association has been observed with elevated platelet counts, as only 3/19 pts experienced the TEE at or closest to their maximum platelet count achieved on study. Hepatobiliary laboratory abnormalities (HBLAs) meeting drug-induced liver injury screening criteria (Center for Drug Evaluation and Research 2009 [FDA]) were reported in 34 pts (11%). None were associated with signs of liver impairment, and most (n=30) resolved either while on treatment or after discontinuation. Eight pts were withdrawn as a result of their HBLA. Two pts were diagnosed with lymphoma and none with leukemia during the 622 pt years of eltrombopag exposure during EXTEND. An independent central review of bone marrow biopsies from >100 pts treated with eltrombopag for 1–4 years, including 39 pts who had ≥2 biopsies during the study, revealed no clinically significant increase in reticulin deposition. Conclusions: Eltrombopag was effective in increasing and maintaining platelet counts ≥50,000/μL and reducing bleeding symptoms. Eltrombopag was well-tolerated during treatment of pts with chronic ITP with exposures up to 4.5 years. No new safety signals have been observed in this long-term study. Additional long-term safety data continue to be assessed, especially in terms of bone marrow reticulin, HBLAs, and TEEs. Disclosures: Saleh: GlaxoSmithKline: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Cheng:GlaxoSmithKline: Speakers Bureau. Bussel:Portola: Consultancy; Eisai: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy, Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Cangene: Research Funding; Genzyme: Research Funding; Immunomedics: Research Funding; Ligand: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Shionogi: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Sysmex: Research Funding. Burgess:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership. Marcello:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Bailey:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership. Brainsky:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Equity Ownership.


Blood ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 132 (Supplement 1) ◽  
pp. 2732-2732 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jorge E. Cortes ◽  
Cristina Papayannidis ◽  
Catriona Jamieson ◽  
Gary J. Schiller ◽  
Anna Candoni ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Novel agents are frequently added to standard acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment backbones yet it is unclear how much additional toxicity this introduces, with the potential for adverse events (AEs) to be caused by the backbone chemotherapy or the disease itself. Glasdegib (PF-04449913) is an investigational, oral small molecule inhibitor of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway component Smoothened (SMO), currently in clinical development for AML treatment. In a Phase 2 randomized study, addition of glasdegib to low-dose cytarabine (LDAC) improved overall survival (OS) vs LDAC alone and combination therapy was generally well tolerated with minor differences in AE rates vs chemotherapy alone. Here, we analyzed specific 'on target' AEs consistent with inhibition of the SMO component of the Hh pathway to assess impact on overall toxicity. Methods: We pooled safety data from both portions of a Phase 1b + Phase 2 multicenter study (NCT01546038), including AML patients assigned to glasdegib 100 mg QD with LDAC (non-intensive treatment) or with cytarabine/daunorubicin on a 7+3 schedule (intensive treatment) (figure 1). We assessed 'on target' all-causality treatment-emergent AEs of muscle spasms, alopecia, and dysgeusia. We also compared AE onset in defined study time-periods (non-intensive: 0-6, 6-12, or >12 months; intensive: induction, consolidation, maintenance); defining long-term treatment as >12 months for non-intensive and maintenance for intensive. Results: Across studies, 93 patients were enrolled in the non-intensive group and 80 in the intensive group. Here, we focused on patients treated with glasdegib: 89 patients in the non-intensive group and 78 in the intensive group. Table 1 shows baseline characteristics; median treatment duration was 69 days (range 3-1280) and 51 days (10-539), respectively. Rates of treatment discontinuation due to all AEs (inclusive of 'on target' and others), deemed by the investigator to be related to study drug (glasdegib and/or backbone chemotherapy) were similar (non-intensive, 10 patients [11.2%]; intensive, 15 patients [19.2%]). Frequency of muscle spasms was similar for the 2 groups; observed in 19 of the non-intensive group (21.3%) and 18 (23.1%) of the intensive group (table 1), with few grade 3 events (non-intensive 4.5%; intensive 1.3%), and the number of patients who developed muscle spasms (nearly all grade 1) when exposed to long-term treatment was small (4 non-intensive patients; 7 intensive patients) with no cases of rhabdomyolysis. Alopecia was reported for 8 (9.0%) of the non-intensive group and 16 (20.5%) of the intensive group (table 1). Alopecia had earlier time to onset in the intensive arm than in the non-intensive arm (table 1), likely reflecting the concomitant chemotherapy. Alopecia was less frequent during glasdegib maintenance monotherapy (5.3%) in the intensive arm than when given with 7+3 (16.7%). Dysgeusia was similar for the 2 groups, observed in 22 of the non-intensive group (24.7%) and 24 (30.8%) of the intensive group (table 1). For both groups, dysgeusia had similar time to onset and was less common during long-term treatment. The number of patients having a dose modification as a consequence of class-related AEs was low (for non-intensive and intensive, respectively: dose reduction, 5.6% and 2.6%; temporary discontinuation, 4.5% and 2.6%; permanent discontinuation, 1.1% and 2.6%). Conclusions: Glasdegib 'on target' AEs of muscle spasms, alopecia, and dysgeusia were mainly of mild severity, had infrequent dose modifications or permanent discontinuations, and did not appear to impair tolerability of combination treatment. In comparison, muscle spasms and dysgeusia occurred in ≤5% for the LDAC alone arm, and no alopecia was reported. Although muscle spasms and dysgeusia occurred with similar frequency, dysgeusia occurred earlier, for a shorter duration, and was more persistent at the time of discontinuation compared with muscle spasms. Similar safety profiles were observed when combining glasdegib with LDAC or 7+3, suggesting that glasdegib in combination with standard chemotherapy has a manageable safety profile and thus can be an acceptable combination partner in the treatment of AML. Our results are consistent with previously reported safety outcomes for glasdegib as monotherapy in hematologic malignancies. Clinical trials of glasdegib in combination with other standard of care AML agents are ongoing. Disclosures Cortes: Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; Astellas Pharma: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Research Funding; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy, Research Funding; Arog: Research Funding. Schiller:Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Celator/Jazz Pharmaceuticals: Research Funding. Candoni:Pfizer: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Gilead: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Merck SD: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Leber:Pfizer Inc: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Novartis: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Otsuko: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Astellas: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Jazz: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Ma:Pfizer Inc: Employment, Equity Ownership. Gallo Stampino:Pfizer Inc: Employment, Equity Ownership. O'Connell:Pfizer Inc: Employment, Equity Ownership. Zeremski:Pfizer Inc: Employment, Equity Ownership. Chan:Pfizer: Employment, Equity Ownership. Sekeres:Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Opsona: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Opsona: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.


Blood ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 126 (23) ◽  
pp. 1059-1059
Author(s):  
John C. Chapin ◽  
James B. Bussel ◽  
Christina S Lee ◽  
Joseph H Oved

Abstract Background: Therapies in ITP primarily increase the platelet count while treatment continues: IVIG, steroids, IV RhIg, romiplostim, eltrombopag and others. Curative effects of treatments other than splenectomy are uncertain; 2 recent studies with rituximab provided disappointing results. ITP in children often spontaneously improves but in children with chronic ITP and adults, this is much less common and management may be difficult. The aim of this study is to explore the efficacy and safety of R+3D. Methods : ITP patients were managed with R+3D if appropriate. Forty-nine adults and 33 children with ITP (newly diagnosed, persistent, and chronic) were treated at Weill Cornell Medical College with the previously described R+3D treatment plan: weekly rituximab infusion 375mg/m2 x 4 weeks + three 4-day cycles of 28mg/m2 (max. 40mg) dexamethasone at 2-week intervals. Patients who came to the platelet disorders center were included even if they received all or part of their treatment elsewhere. Counts were obtained weekly, monthly, and 2-3x monthly thereafter for responders. Response was either partial (PR, plt count > 50,000-100,000) or complete (CR > 100,000). Analysis was descriptive and by Kaplan-Meier. Children and adults are presented separately. Results : The overall estimated response (initial and long-term) in the 49 adults (22 men, 27 women) was associated with greater initial platelet response, female gender, and duration of ITP < 1 year. There was a significant difference in the projected 78% lasting response rate at 5 years in women with ITP of < 1 yr duration. All other groups (men < or > 1 yr duration of ITP and women > 1 yr duration of ITP) had highly inferior results (<25%). Ninety % of the 49 adults (44/49; 11 PRs and 33 CRs) initially responded to R+3Dex at 8 weeks. Children had lower initial responses at 45% (15/33; 2 PRs and 13 CRs). Four adults further improved from PR to CR and 2 children, 1 NR, 1 PR, to CR. Kaplan Meier projected long-term treatment-free response for all adults treated with R+3Dex is 33.5%. Only 1 PR but 22/37 (59.5%) of CRs continue to maintain adequate platelet counts. Parallel projection of long-term response for children is 23.9%. In children, 10/16 (62.5%) responders continue to maintain their response at last follow-up., Female patients maintained a 44% long-term response at 5 years whereas male patients projected a rate of only 19% (p value = 0.009). In children, girls projected a 37% long-term response and boys projected 11% at 5 years. Further divided by the duration of ITP, both adult and pediatric female patients with duration of ITP less than 12 months fared better than females with longer duration of disease (and males of any duration). Conclusions: ITP does not typically display a large gender disparity compared to other autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus), (1.5F:1Mcompared to 9F:1M ). No gender differences were found in responses to first- and second-line treatments in a previous report (Andres et al., 2012). However, gender bias in especially long term response is dramatic and is shown separately in both children and adults; when combined with earlier treatment initiation, the difference in projected long-term, treatment-free remission is remarkable (Table 1). Studies in lymphoma and 2 other indications have also suggested a gender effect in response to rituximab, but attributed it to Pk in elderly women. The influence of gender on autoimmune diseases, ITP in particular, is complicated and warrants further study as to the mechanism of effect. Table 1.Adults (n=49) Female: n=27 // Male: n=22Children (n=33) Female: n=18 // Male: n=15Initial ResponseNR = 5 (10.2%)NR = 18 (54.5%)PR = 11 (22.4%)PR = 2 (6.1%)CR = 33 (67.4%)CR = 13 (39.4%)Female: 26/27 (96.3%) Male: 18/22 (81.8%)Female: 8/18 (44.4%) Male: 7/15 (46.7%)Best ResponseNR = 5 (10.2%)NR = 17 (51.5%)PR = 7 (14.3%)PR = 1 (3.0%)CR = 37 (75.5%)CR = 15 (45.5%)Female: 26/27 (96.3%) Male: 18/22 (81.8%)Female: 9/18 (50%) Male: 7/15 (46.7%)Relapsed21/44 (47.7%)6/16 (37.5%)Female: 10/26 (38.5%) Male: 10/18 (55.5%)Female: 2/9 (22.2%) Male: 4/7 (57.1%)Ongoing23/44 (52.3%)10/16 (62.5%)Female: 16/26 (61.5%) Male: 8/18 (44.4%)Female: 7/9 (77.7%) Male: 3/7 (42.9%) Disclosures Bussel: Novartis: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; GSK: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; protalex: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; rigel: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Cangene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Amgen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding.


Blood ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 114 (22) ◽  
pp. 682-682 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mansoor N. Saleh ◽  
James B. Bussel ◽  
Gregory Cheng ◽  
Balkis Meddeb ◽  
Bhabita Mayer ◽  
...  

Abstract Abstract 682 INTRODUCTION: Eltrombopag (PROMACTA; GlaxoSmithKline, Collegeville, PA) is the first oral, small molecule, thrombopoietin receptor agonist approved in the US for the treatment of chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Eltrombopag is also being evaluated for the treatment of thrombocytopenia due to other causes (eg, hepatitis C, MDS). Chronic ITP is characterized by autoantibody-induced platelet destruction and reduced platelet production, leading to chronically low platelet counts. Eltrombopag has been shown to significantly increase platelet counts and reduce clinically relevant bleeding symptoms in 3 placebo-controlled ITP trials evaluating a total of 429 patients. EXTEND is an ongoing open-label, phase 3 extension study to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of eltrombopag in chronic ITP. METHODS: Patients with previously treated, chronic ITP who completed a prior eltrombopag study were eligible to participate in EXTEND. Eltrombopag treatment was initiated at 50 mg once daily and then adjusted to maintain platelet counts between ≥50,000/μL and <200,000/μL, with doses between 75 mg and 25 mg once daily (or less often if necessary). Patients who achieved platelet counts ≥50,000/μL were considered responders. Bleeding events were prospectively evaluated using the World Health Organization (WHO) Bleeding Scale: grade 0 = no bleeding, grade 1 = mild bleeding, grade 2 = moderate bleeding, grade 3 = gross bleeding, and grade 4 = debilitating blood loss. Bone marrow (BM) biopsy was required after 1 year on treatment. RESULTS: At the time of this analysis, 299 patients (median age 50 years; 66% female) had received eltrombopag (240, 126, 48, and 17 patients exposed for ≥6, 12, 18, and 24 months, respectively). The median duration of eltrombopag treatment was 204 days and ranged from 2–861 days. At baseline, 33% were receiving concomitant ITP medication and 38% had been splenectomized. The majority of patients (70%) had baseline platelet counts <30,000/μL, followed by 17% and 13% with baseline platelet counts from μ30,000/μL to <50,000/μL, and μ50,000/μL, respectively; all had baseline platelet counts <50,000/μL at the time of entry into their previous study. Overall, 86% of patients (257/299) achieved a platelet count μ50,000/μL. Splenectomized and non-splenectomized patients responded equally well (89% and 82%, respectively). Patients responded to eltrombopag regardless of baseline use of concomitant ITP medications (no baseline ITP medications and baseline ITP medications: 86% each). Median platelet counts increased to μ50,000/μL by week 2, and remained μ50,000/μL throughout the observation period of the study (Figure 1). Patients on treatment for μ6 months or μ12 months achieved platelet counts of μ50,000/μL and 2x baseline for 69% (18/26 weeks) and 71% (37/52 weeks) of the time on treatment, respectively. At baseline, 56% of patients reported bleeding symptoms (WHO grades 1–4) compared to 27%, 21%, 40%, and 25% at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, respectively. Adverse events (AEs) were reported in 248 patients (83%) while on therapy, the majority being mild to moderate. The most common AEs reported were headache (23%), upper respiratory tract infection (17%), nasopharyngitis (17%), fatigue (13%), arthralgia (12%), and diarrhea (11%). Five deaths were reported: 2 occurred on therapy and 3 occurred more than 30 days posttherapy; none considered related to study medication. A total of 24 patients (8%) met any of the hepatobiliary laboratory abnormality screening criteria (ALT ≥3x ULN, AST ≥3x ULN, total bilirubin >1.5x ULN, or alkaline phosphatase >1.5x ULN). Thirteen patients (4%) experienced 16 thromboembolic events (TEEs); 11/13 (85%) experienced the event at a platelet count lower than the maximum platelet count achieved during eltrombopag treatment. Platelet counts proximal to the TEEs ranged from 14,000–407,000/μL. Eighty-six BM biopsies were performed. No clinically relevant effects of eltrombopag on BM were detected. CONCLUSION: Oral eltrombopag treatment for up to 2 years effectively raised platelet counts, decreased bleeding symptoms, and was generally well-tolerated in chronic ITP. Disclosures: Saleh: GlaxoSmithKline: Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Speakers Bureau. Bussel:Genzyme: Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Cangene: Research Funding; Amgen: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Immunomedics: Research Funding; Ligand: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Eisai, Inc: Research Funding; Sysmex: Research Funding; Scienta: Speakers Bureau; Shionogi: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Cheng:GlaxoSmithKline: Research Funding. Mayer:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Bailey:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Aivado:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment.


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