Efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety of subcutaneous C1-esterase inhibitor as prophylaxis in Japanese patients with hereditary angioedema: Results of a Phase 3 study.

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare and potentially life-threatening genetic disorder characterized by recurrent attacks of angioedema. HAE types I and II result from deficient or dysfunctional C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH). This Phase 3 study assessed the efficacy, pharmacokinetics (PK), and safety of subcutaneous (SC) C1-INH in Japanese patients with HAE. METHODS: The prospective, open-label, multicenter, single-arm Phase 3 study recruited patients with HAE types I or II to an initial run-in period, followed by a 16-week treatment period where patients received 60 IU/kg C1-INH (SC) twice weekly. The two primary endpoints were the time-normalized number of HAE attacks per month and C1-INH functional activity at Week 16. RESULTS: Nine patients entered the treatment period and completed the study. Treatment with C1-INH (SC) significantly reduced the mean monthly attack rate from 3.7 during the run-in period to 0.3 during treatment (exploratory p value of within-patient comparison = 0.004). After the last dose of C1-INH (SC) at Week 16, the mean trough concentration of C1-INH was 59.8%, and the mean area under the plasma concentration-time curve to the end of the dosing period and to the last sample were 5317.1 and 13,091.5 h•%, respectively. During the study, there were no deaths, serious adverse events, or adverse events leading to study discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS: C1-INH (SC) (60 IU/kg twice weekly) was efficacious and well tolerated as a prophylaxis against HAE attacks in Japanese patients with HAE types I or II, which was supported by the increased and maintained C1-INH functional activity. EudraCT Number 2019-003921-99; JapicCTI-205273.

Population pharmacokinetics of recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor in children with hereditary angioedema.

BACKGROUND: Recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor (rhC1-INH) is indicated in the United States for the treatment of acute hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks in adolescents and adults; it is also indicated in Europe for children aged 2 years and older. A need exists for further insight into potential pharmacokinetic (PK) differences in functional C1-INH levels by age (ie, children, adolescents, and adults). OBJECTIVE: To perform population PK modeling to predict C1-INH levels by age after by age rhC1-INH administration. METHODS: Data from a phase 2 pediatric trial (children aged 4-13 years at screening) were added to a database of 6 trials in adults and adolescents. An unpublished population PK model was refined and used to simulate C1-INH exposure. RESULTS: Analysis included 153 individuals (14 healthy volunteers; 139 patients with HAE) and 1788 functional C1-INH measurements (59 from 20 patients in the pediatric trial). Bodyweight (population weight, 16-128 kg) was a key predictor of C1-INH volume of distribution. Age was not a predictor of C1-INH PK after the inclusion of bodyweight in the model. Simulations of the recommended rhC1-INH dosing regimen (bodyweight <84 kg, 50 U/kg; ≥84 kg, 4200 U) revealed that overall C1-INH exposure was comparable among age groups. Predicted peak functional C1-INH concentrations were at or above the lower level of normal (≥0.7 U/mL) for 99.8% of adults (≥18 years), 99.8% of adolescents (14-17 years), and 96.0% of children (2-13 years). CONCLUSION: The analyses support the same weight-based rhC1-INH dosing for HAE attacks in children as currently recommended for adolescents and adults. These results support clinical trial data, which revealed similar safety and efficacy profiles across these age groups.

[EFFICACY, PHARMACOKINETICS, PHARMACODYNAMICS, AND SAFETY OF INTRAVENOUS C1 INHIBITOR FOR LONG-TERM PROPHYLAXIS AND TREATMENT OF BREAKTHROUGH ATTACKS IN JAPANESE SUBJECTS WITH HEREDITARY ANGIOEDEMA: A PHASE 3 OPEN-LABEL STUDY].

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is associated with recurrent, painful, and potentially lifethreatening attacks characterized by swelling of subcutaneous or submucosal tissues. PURPOSE: To investigate the efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of repeat-use C1 inhibitor (C1-INH) replacement therapy for long-term prophylaxis and treatment of breakthrough attacks in the management of Japanese patients with HAE type I or II. METHODS: An open-label, single-arm, Phase 3 study was conducted in Japanese patients with HAE (NCT02865720). For patients 6 years of age or older, 1000U were administered biweekly (by a healthcare professional or self-administered) via intravenous infusion. RESULTS: In 8 enrolled patients, the mean number of attacks normalized per month was lower during C1-INH treatment than during the 3 months prior (1.826 vs. 3.375). Clinically meaningful mean change from baseline in the angioedema-quality of life (AE-QoL) total score was shown during treatment with C1-INH. Pharmacokinetic data showed markedly higher and enduring post-baseline plasma levels of C1-INH functional activity and C1-INH antigen concentration, starting from 0.5h after first dose of C1-INH and lasting up to 72 hours. C1-INH was well tolerated with no new safety signals identified in this population of Japanese patients with HAE. CONCLUSION: C1-INH was effective for long-term prophylaxis and treatment of breakthrough attacks with favourable safety profile in Japanese patients with HAE.

Recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor for prophylaxis of hereditary angio-oedema: a phase 2, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial.

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angio-oedema is a recurrent, oedematous disorder caused by deficiency of functional C1 inhibitor. Infusions of plasma-derived C1 esterase inhibitor deter attacks of hereditary angio-oedema, but the prophylactic effect of recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor has not been rigorously studied. We aimed to assess the efficacy of recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor for prophylaxis of hereditary angio-oedema. METHODS: We conducted this phase 2, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial at ten centres in Canada, the Czech Republic, Israel, Italy, Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and the USA. We enrolled patients aged 13 years or older with functional C1-inhibitor concentrations of less than 50% of normal and a history of four or more attacks of hereditary angio-oedema per month for at least 3 months before study initiation. Patients were randomly assigned centrally (1:1:1:1:1:1), via an interactive response technology system with fixed allocation, to receive one of six treatment sequences. During each sequence, patients received intravenous recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor (50 IU/kg; maximum 4200 IU) twice weekly, recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor once weekly and placebo once weekly, and placebo twice weekly, each for 4 weeks with a 1 week washout period between crossover. All patients, investigators, and study personnel who participated in patient care were masked to group allocation during the study. The primary efficacy endpoint was the number of attacks of hereditary angio-oedema observed in each 4 week treatment period. Attack symptoms were recorded daily. The primary efficacy analysis was done in the intention-to-treat population. Safety was assessed in all patients who received at least one injection of study medication. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02247739. FINDINGS: Between Dec 29, 2014, and May 3, 2016, we enrolled 35 patients, of whom 32 (91%) underwent randomisation (intention-to-treat population) and 26 (81%) completed the study. The mean number of attacks of hereditary angio-oedema over 4 weeks was significantly reduced with recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor twice weekly (2·7 attacks [SD 2·4]) and once weekly (4·4 attacks [3·2]) versus placebo (7·2 attacks [3·6]), with mean differences of -4·4 attacks (p<0·0001) and -2·8 attacks (p=0·0004), respectively. We recorded adverse events in ten (34%) of 29 patients given twice-weekly recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor, 13 (45%) of 29 patients given the once-weekly regimen, and eight (29%) of 28 patients given placebo. Headache (twice-weekly treatment) and nasopharyngitis (once-weekly treatment) were the most common adverse events. Two (7%) adverse events (fatigue and headache) were deemed possibly related to treatment with recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor, but both resolved without additional treatment. No thrombotic or thromboembolic events, systemic allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis), or neutralising antibodies were reported. INTERPRETATION: Prophylaxis with recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor provided clinically relevant reductions in frequency of hereditary angio-oedema attacks and was well tolerated. In view of the pharmacokinetic profile of recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor, our results suggest that efficacy of C1-inhibitor replacement therapy might not be a direct function of plasma trough concentrations of C1 inhibitor. FUNDING: Pharming Technologies.

Population pharmacokinetics of subcutaneous C1-inhibitor for prevention of attacks in patients with hereditary angioedema.

BACKGROUND: Long-term prophylaxis with subcutaneous (SC) administration of a highly concentrated plasma-derived C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) formulation was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for hereditary angioedema (HAE) attack prevention. OBJECTIVE: To characterize the population pharmacokinetics of C1-INH (SC) (HAEGARDA® ; CSL Behring) in healthy volunteers and HAE patients, and assess the variability and influence of covariates on pharmacokinetics. METHODS: C1-INH functional activity data obtained after administration of various C1-INH (intravenous; IV) and C1-INH (SC) doses from 1 study in healthy volunteers (n = 16) and 2 studies in subjects with HAE (n = 108) were pooled to develop a population pharmacokinetic model (NONMEM v7.2). Pharmacokinetic parameters derived from steady-state simulations based on the final model were also evaluated. RESULTS: C1-INH functional activity following C1-INH (SC) administration was described by a linear one-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination, with inter-individual variability in all parameters tested. The mean population bioavailability of C1-INH (SC), and pharmacokinetic parameters for clearance (CL), volume of distribution, and absorption rate were estimated to be ~43%, 1.03 mL/hour/kg, 0.05 L/kg and 0.0146 hour-1 , respectively. The effect of bodyweight on CL of C1-INH functional activity was included in the final model, estimated to be 0.74. Steady-state simulations of C1-INH functional activity vs time profiles in 1000 virtual HAE patients revealed higher minimum functional activity (Ctrough ) levels after twice-weekly dosing with 40 IU/kg (~40%) and 60 IU/kg (~48%) compared with 1000 IU IV (~30%). Based on the population pharmacokinetic model, the median time to peak concentration was ~59 hours and the median apparent plasma half-life was ~69 hours. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Twice-weekly bodyweight-adjusted dosing of C1-INH (SC) exhibits linear pharmacokinetics and dose-dependent increases in Ctrough levels at each dosing interval. In this analysis, SC dosing led to maintenance of higher Ctrough levels than IV dosing.

Complete kinetic follow-up of symptoms and complement parameters during a hereditary angioedema attack.

We studied the kinetics of C1-inhibitor (C1-INH) and other complement parameters in a self-limited edematous attack (EA) in a patient with hereditary angioedema due to C1-INH deficiency to better understand the pathomechanism of the evolution, course, and complete resolution of EAs. C1-INH concentration and functional activity (C1-INHc+f ), C1(q,r,s), C3, C4, C3a, C4a, C5a, and SC5b-9 levels were measured in blood samples obtained during the 96-hour observation period. The highest C1-INHc+f , C4, and C1(q,r,s) levels were measured at baseline, and their continuous decrease was observed during the entire observation period. C4 depletion started at prodromal phase, and C4 was lowest after the maximum severity peak. Compared to baseline, C4a level was four times higher 7 hours before the onset of the attack. C1-INH did not increase after resolution of the attack suggesting that factors other than C1-INH may be important in this process. C4a may be a useful biomarker for the prediction of EAs.

Subcutaneous administration of human C1 inhibitor with recombinant human hyaluronidase in patients with hereditary angioedema.

BACKGROUND: The currently approved method of C1 inhibitor (C1 INH) administration for patients with hereditary angioedema with C1 INH deficiency (HAE) is by intravenous injection. A C1 INH subcutaneous formulation may provide an attractive mode of administration for some patients. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate efficacy and safety of two doses of subcutaneous, plasma-derived C1 INH with the dispersing agent, recombinant human hyaluronidase (rHuPH20) to prevent angioedema attacks in patients with HAE. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, dose-ranging, crossover study, patients 12 years of age (n = 47) with a confirmed diagnosis of HAE were randomly assigned to receive subcutaneous injections of 1000 U C1 INH with 24,000 U rHuPH20 or 2000 U C1 INH with 48,000 U rHuPH20 every 3 or 4 days for 8 weeks and then crossed-over for another 8-week period. The primary efficacy end point was the number of angioedema attacks during each treatment period. RESULTS: The study was terminated early as a precaution related to non-neutralizing antibodies to rHuPH20 in 45% of patients. The mean standard deviation number of angioedema attacks during the 8-week treatment periods were 1.58 1.59 with 1000 U C1 INH and 0.97 1.26 with 2000 U. The mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) within-patient difference (2000 U-1000 U, respectively) was 0.61 (95% CI, 1.23 to 0.01) attacks per month (p = 0.0523), and 0.56 (95% CI, 1.06 to 0.05) attacks that required acute treatment, (p = 0.0315). No deaths or other serious adverse events were reported. Injection-site reaction was the most common adverse event. CONCLUSION: Despite early termination, this study demonstrated a clinically and statistically significant difference in burden of disease, which favored 2000 U C1 INH, without associated serious adverse events.

Phase II study results of a replacement therapy for hereditary angioedema with subcutaneous C1-inhibitor concentrate.

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) due to C1 inhibitor deficiency manifests as recurrent swelling attacks that can be disabling and sometimes fatal. Long-term prophylaxis with twice-weekly intravenous injections of plasma-derived C1-inhibitor (pdC1-INH) has been established as an effective treatment. Subcutaneous (SC) administration of pdC1-INH has not been studied in patients with HAE. METHODS: This open-label, dose-ranging, crossover study (COMPACT Phase II) was conducted in 18 patients with type I or II HAE who received two of twice-weekly 1500, 3000, or 6000 IU SC doses of highly concentrated volume-reduced CSL830 for 4 weeks each. The mean trough plasma levels of C1-INH functional activity, C1-INH and C4 antigen levels during Week 4, and overall safety and tolerability were evaluated. The primary outcome was model-derived steady-state trough C1-INH functional activity. RESULTS: After SC CSL830 administration, a dose-dependent increase in trough functional C1-INH activity was observed. C1-INH and C4 levels both increased. The two highest dose groups (3000 and 6000 IU) achieved constant C1-INH activity levels above 40% values, a threshold that was assumed to provide clinical protection against angioedema attacks. Compared with intravenous injection, pdC1-INH SC injection with CSL830 showed a lower peak-to-trough ratio and more consistent exposures. All doses were well tolerated. Mild-to-moderate local site reactions were noted with pain and swelling being the most common adverse event. CONCLUSIONS: Subcutaneous volume-reduced CSL830 was well tolerated and led to a dose-dependent increase in physiologically relevant functional C1-INH plasma levels. A clinical outcome study of SC CSL830 in patients with HAE warrants further investigation.

Pharmacokinetics of plasma-derived C1-esterase inhibitor after subcutaneous versus intravenous administration in subjects with mild or moderate hereditary angioedema: the PASSION study.

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare disease caused by C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) deficiency, characterized by periodic attacks of acute edema affecting subcutaneous (SC) tissues and mucous membranes. Human C1-INH concentrate given intravenously (IV) is effective and safe, but venous access may be difficult. We compared SC and IV administration of human pasteurized C1-INH concentrate with respect to pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized, open-label, crossover study. Twenty-four subjects with mild or moderate HAE were randomly assigned during an attack-free interval to receive 1000 units of human pasteurized C1-INH concentrate IV or SC. Plasma levels of C1-INH activity and antigen, C4 antigen, cleaved high-molecular-weight kininogen (clHK), and C1-INH antibodies were measured. RESULTS: The mean relative bioavailability of functional C1-INH after SC administration was 39.7%. Maximum C1-INH activity after SC administration occurred within 48 hours and persisted longer than after IV administration. C4 antigen levels increased and clHK levels decreased after IV and SC administration, indicating the pharmacodynamic action of C1-INH. The mean half-life of functional C1-INH was 62 hours after IV administration and 120 hours after SC administration (p=0.0595). C1-INH concentrate was safe and well tolerated when administered via both routes. As expected, SC administration resulted in a higher incidence of injection site reactions, all of which were mild. CONCLUSION: With a relative bioavailability of 39.7%, SC administration of human pasteurized C1-INH yields potentially clinically relevant and sustained plasma levels of C1-INH and is safe and well tolerated.

Recombinant human C1 inhibitor for the prophylaxis of hereditary angioedema attacks: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a disease characterized by recurrent tissue swelling affecting various body locations. Recent literature shows that patients with frequent attacks may benefit from long-term prophylaxis. This study evaluated the safety and prophylactic effect of weekly administrations of recombinant C1INH (rhC1INH). METHODS: Patients with a history of HAE attacks occurring ≥every 2 weeks received a once weekly administration of 50 U/kg rhC1INH. Hereditary angioedema attack history was collected at screening. Breakthrough attacks during the study were recorded at each visit. Following a 2-week run-in period, HAE patients received 8 weekly rhC1INH administrations and were followed-up for an additional 6 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated by comparing the HAE attack incidence during the treatment period to the historical attacks over the previous 2 years. Safety evaluation was based on clinical laboratory and adverse events (AEs) reports. RESULTS: The 25 participants reported a mean of 0.9 attacks/week over the past 2 years. The mean breakthrough attack rate during the treatment period was 0.4 attacks/week (95% CI 0.28-0.56). A total of 30 treatment-emergent-AEs were reported in 13 patients, all mild to moderate. One patient died from a laryngeal attack 25 days after last study drug administration. The only possible drug related AEs reported were dry mouth, dizziness and anxiety in one patient and hypotension in another. There were no allergic AEs and no neutralizing antibodies observed. CONCLUSIONS: Weekly administrations of 50 U/kg rhC1INH appeared to reduce the frequency of HAE attacks and were generally safe and well tolerated.

Treatment of hereditary angioedema with nanofiltered C1-esterase inhibitor concentrate (Cetor®): multi-center phase II and III studies to assess pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy and safety.

From 1997, plasma-derived C1-inhibitor concentrate (Cetor®) has been available to HAE and AAE patients. Recently, a virus reducing 15 nm nanofiltration step has been introduced in the production process. A randomized, double-blind controlled cross-over study was performed to compare the pharmacokinetics (PK) of nanofiltered (C1-INH-NF) with conventional C1-inhibitor (C1-INH). Efficacy and safety were investigated in an open-label, on-demand and a prophylactic study. No differences in pharmacokinetic parameters between C1-INH and C1-INH-NF were found (13 non-symptomatic HAE patients). Both C1-inhibitor products equally increased plasma C4 levels. In the on-demand study, 14 acute angioedema attacks in 8 patients were analyzed. In the prophylactic study, 1 AAE and 5 HAE patients experienced in total 31 attacks during 748 observation days. In total 180,000 units of C1-INH-NF were administered. No product-related adverse events occurred, and no anti-C1-antibodies were induced. Nanofiltration in the production process of C1-inhibitor did not affect the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety.

Recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor (conestat alfa) in the prevention of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: A structured summary of a study protocol for a randomized, parallel-group, open-label, multi-center pilot trial (PROTECT-COVID-19).

OBJECTIVES: Conestat alfa, a recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor, is a multi-target inhibitor of inflammatory cascades including the complement, the kinin-kallikrein and the contact activation system. The study objective is to investigate the efficacy and safety of conestat alfa in improving disease severity and short-term outcome in COVID-19 patients with pulmonary disease. TRIAL DESIGN: This study is an investigator-initiated, randomized (2:1 ratio), open-label, parallel-group, controlled, multi-center, phase 2a clinical trial. PARTICIPANTS: This trial is conducted in 3 hospitals in Switzerland, 1 hospital in Brazil and 1 hospital in Mexico (academic and non-academic). All patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection requiring hospitalization for at least 3 calendar days for severe COVID-19 will be screened for study eligibility. INCLUSION CRITERIA: - Signed informed consent - Age 18-85 years - Evidence of pulmonary involvement on CT scan or X-ray of the chest - Duration of symptoms associated with COVID-19 ≤ 10 days - At least one of the following risk factors for progression to mechanical ventilation on the day of enrolment: 1) Arterial hypertension 2) ≥ 50 years 3) Obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) 4) History of cardiovascular disease 5) Chronic pulmonary disease 6) Chronic renal disease 7) C-reactive protein > 35mg/L 8) Oxygen saturation at rest of ≤ 94% when breathing ambient air Exclusion criteria: - Incapacity or inability to provide informed consent - Contraindications to the class of drugs under investigation (C1 esterase inhibitor) - Treatment with tocilizumab or another IL-6R or IL-6 inhibitor before enrolment - History or suspicion of allergy to rabbits - Pregnancy or breast feeding - Active or anticipated treatment with any other complement inhibitor - Liver cirrhosis (any Child-Pugh score) - Admission to an ICU on the day or anticipated within the next 24 hours of enrolment - Invasive or non-invasive ventilation - Participation in another study with any investigational drug within the 30 days prior to enrolment - Enrolment of the study investigators, their family members, employees and other closely related or dependent persons INTERVENTION AND COMPARATOR: Patients randomized to the experimental arm will receive conestat alfa in addition to standard of care (SOC). Conestat alfa (8400 U followed by 4200 U every 8 hours) will be administered as a slow intravenous injection (5-10 minutes) over a 72-hour period (i.e. 9 administrations in total). The first conestat alfa treatment will be administered on the day of enrolment. The control group will receive SOC only. SOC treatment will be administered according to local institutional guidelines, including supplemental oxygen, antibiotics, corticosteroids, remdesivir, and anticoagulation. MAIN OUTCOMES: The primary endpoint of this trial is disease severity on day 7 after enrolment assessed by an adapted WHO Ordinal Scale for Clinical Improvement (score 0 will be omitted and score 6 and 7 will be combined) from 1 (no limitation of activities) to 7 (death). Secondary outcomes include (i) the time to clinical improvement (time from randomization to an improvement of two points on the WHO ordinal scale or discharge from hospital) within 14 days after enrolment, (ii) the proportion of participants alive and not having required invasive or non-invasive ventilation at 14 days after enrolment and (iii) the proportion of subjects without an acute lung injury (defined by PaO2/FiO2 ratio of ≤300mmHg) within 14 days after enrolment. Exploratory outcomes include virological clearance, C1 esterase inhibitor pharmacokinetics and changes in routine laboratory parameters and inflammatory proteins. RANDOMISATION: Subjects will be randomised in a 2:1 ratio to treatment with conestat alfa in addition to SOC or SOC only. Randomization is performed via an interactive web response system (SecuTrial®). BLINDING (MASKING): In this open-label trial, participants, caregivers and outcome assessors are not blinded to group assignment. NUMBERS TO BE RANDOMISED (SAMPLE SIZE): We will randomise approximately 120 individuals (80 in the active treatment arm, 40 in the SOC group). Two interim analyses after 40 and 80 patients are planned according to the Pocock adjusted levels αp = 0.0221. The results of the interim analysis will allow adjustment of the sample size (Lehmacher, Wassmer, 1999). TRIAL STATUS: PROTECT-COVID-19 protocol version 3.0 (July 07 2020). Participant recruitment started on July 30 2020 in one center (Basel, Switzerland, first participant included on August 06 2020). In four of five study centers patients are actively recruited. Participation of the fifth study center (Mexico) is anticipated by mid December 2020. Completion of trial recruitment depends on the development of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov, number: NCT04414631 , registered on 4 June 2020 FULL PROTOCOL: The full protocol is attached as an additional file, accessible from the Trials website (Additional file 1). In the interest of expediting dissemination of this material, the familiar formatting has been eliminated; this Letter serves as a summary of the key elements of the full protocol.

C1-inhibitor concentrate for individual replacement therapy in patients with severe hereditary angioedema refractory to danazol prophylaxis.

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) caused by functional deficiency of C1-inhibitor (C1-INH) is a rare disease that manifests with recurrent spontaneous nonallergic edema of the subcutaneous tissues and mucous membranes. In cases of laryngeal edema that are not treated immediately, HAE is associated with high mortality rates. Attenuated androgens (e.g., danazol) are usually administered for prophylaxis, but associated side effects may limit their use. This study investigated the efficacy, safety, and quality of life (QoL) associated with a pasteurized plasma-derived C1-inhibitor (pC1-INH) concentrate for individual replacement therapy (IRT) in patients with severe HAE suffering from frequent attacks who were intolerant or not responding to danazol. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty-two patients with severe HAE and danazol incompatibility or insufficient efficacy of danazol were recruited. Intraindividual comparisons of efficacy, safety, and QoL with pC1-INH concentrate IRT versus danazol treatment were made using retrospective and prospective patient data. Pharmacokinetic data were collected for 15 of the 22 patients. RESULTS: In patients receiving pC1-INH regularly, the median number of attacks per year decreased significantly compared to danazol prophylaxis (p < 0.001), and the 24 laryngeal edema episodes per year ceased. Superior efficacy of pC1-INH was found for all QoL variables (e.g., general condition, social activities). No transmission of human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis A, B, or C was observed. CONCLUSION: In patients with severe HAE who experience severe side effects and/or lack of efficacy of danazol prophylaxis, very early substitution with pC1-INH can completely abolish the incidence of potentially fatal laryngeal edema and can reduce the incidence of acute attacks.

Rhucin, a recombinant C1 inhibitor for the treatment of hereditary angioedema and cerebral ischemia.

Pharming NV and Esteve are developing Rhucin, a recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor. Rhucin is currently undergoing phase III clinical trials in North America and is awaiting regulatory approval in Western Europe for the treatment of prophylactic and acute hereditary angioedema. Pharming is also investigating Rhucin for the potential treatment of cerebral ischemic injury.

Pharmacokinetics of human recombinant C1-esterase inhibitor and development of anti-drug antibodies in healthy dogs.

Complement-mediated intravascular hemolysis occurs in canine immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA). Complement inhibitors such as recombinant C1 esterase inhibitor (rC1-INH) might prevent this process and alter the disease course. This study aimed to characterize the pharmacokinetics of a single 500 IU IV dose of rC1-INH in 8 healthy beagle dogs, evaluate the dogs for any adverse effects of drug administration, and determine whether rC1-INH administration induces anti-drug antibody formation. Serum rC1-INH concentrations were measured using a commercial functional ELISA at baseline and at 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 240, 360, 480, 600, 720, 960, and 1440 min post drug administration. Complete blood counts were conducted at baseline, 720 and 1440 min. Western blot analysis, using rC1-INH as the target antigen was used to detect anti-drug antibodies in 14-day serum samples. No adverse clinical reactions were noted following rC1-INH administration. Pharmacokinetic modelling suggested that the peak C1-INH concentration achieved is 0.21 IU/mL and that C1-INH concentration is significantly greater than baseline for 100 min following injection. A robust antibody response was detected which suggests that rC1-INH should not be re-administered after an initial course. Clinical trials of rC1-INH in dogs with intravascular IMHA are now warranted.

Potential Influence of Endothelial Adsorption on the Delayed Time to Maximum Concentration of Biopharmaceuticals.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Maximum plasma concentration of biopharmaceuticals sometimes occurs long after completion of intravenous infusion. The objective of this research was to study the hypothetical adsorption of biopharmaceuticals to endothelium and infusion material, which may theoretically explain this phenomenon. METHODS: Infusion procedures were mimicked in an artificial vessel covered with a confluent monolayer of endothelial cells. Three monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) and C1 inhibitor were studied. RESULTS: Adsorption of MAbs to endothelium was observed followed by release when the vessel was subsequently perfused with buffer. Adsorption to infusion material also occurred to various degrees and in a seemingly random fashion, with a loss of up to 15% during a single flush of the line, but release from the line was not seen. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that adsorption of biopharmaceuticals to endothelium can occur. This observation can explain the increase in plasma concentration after completion of intravenous administration.

Exposure-Response Model of Subcutaneous C1-Inhibitor Concentrate to Estimate the Risk of Attacks in Patients With Hereditary Angioedema.

Subcutaneous C1-inhibitor (HAEGARDA, CSL Behring), is a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, highly concentrated formulation of a plasma-derived C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH), which, in the phase III Clinical Studies for Optimal Management in Preventing Angioedema with Low-Volume Subcutaneous C1-inhibitor Replacement Therapy (COMPACT) trial, reduced the incidence of hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks when given prophylactically. Data from the COMPACT trial were used to develop a repeated time-to-event model to characterize the timing and frequency of HAE attacks as a function of C1-INH activity, and then develop an exposure-response model to assess the relationship between C1-INH functional activity levels (C1-INH(f)) and the risk of an attack. The C1-INH(f) values of 33.1%, 40.3%, and 63.1% were predicted to correspond with 50%, 70%, and 90% reductions in the HAE attack risk, respectively, relative to no therapy. Based on trough C1-INH(f) values for the 40 IU/kg (40.2%) and 60 IU/kg (48.0%) C1-INH (SC) doses, the model predicted that 50% and 67% of the population, respectively, would see at least a 70% decrease in the risk of an attack.

Recombinant Human C1-Esterase Inhibitor to Treat Acute Hereditary Angioedema Attacks in Adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Recombinant human C1-esterase inhibitor (rhC1-INH) is efficacious and well tolerated for managing hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks in adults. However, there are insufficient data on its efficacy and safety in adolescents. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety profiles of rhC1-INH for acute HAE attacks in adolescents. METHODS: Adolescents (aged 12-18 y) with HAE enrolled in 2 randomized controlled trials and 2 open-label extension trials were included and received intravenous rhC1-INH for acute attacks. Times to the beginning of sustained symptom relief (visual analog scale change from baseline ≥20 mm) and minimal symptoms (visual analog scale score of <20 mm across locations) were assessed. Safety parameters included hypersensitivity reactions, anti-rhC1-INH antibodies, and host-related impurities. RESULTS: Sixteen adolescents (50 attacks, aged 14-18 y) received rhC1-INH. Attacks were managed with single-dose rhC1-INH 50 U/kg (46.0%) and single-dose rhC1-INH 2100 U (16%), and 32.0% were treated with additional doses after receiving an initial rhC1-INH 2100 U dose (total dose, 4200-6300 U). Most attacks (88.0%) occurred at a single location; 59.1% (26 of 44) were abdominal. Across the first 5 attacks, median times to the beginning of symptom relief ranged from 19.0 to 78.5 minutes; median times to minimal symptoms ranged from 120 to 190 minutes. Pharmacokinetics showed that rhC1-INH restored functional plasma C1-esterase inhibitor levels to the normal (>70%) range for almost all evaluable patients. No severe or drug-related adverse events or hypersensitivity reactions occurred. No treatment-emergent antibodies to rhC1-INH or host-related impurities were observed. CONCLUSIONS: rhC1-INH is efficacious and well tolerated among adolescents with HAE.

Recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor in the management of hereditary angioedema.

Hereditary angioedema (HAE), a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder, is caused by a deficiency in functional C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH). This potentially life-threatening condition manifests as recurrent attacks of subcutaneous and submucosal swelling of the skin, gastrointestinal tract and larynx. The management of HAE includes treatment of acute episodes, short-term prophylaxis in preparation for exposure to known triggers and long-term prophylaxis to decrease the incidence and severity of HAE attacks. Four products are approved in the USA for the treatment of acute attacks of HAE, including one human plasma-derived C1-INH therapy, a recombinant human C1-INH product (rhC1-INH), a plasma kallikrein inhibitor and a bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist. In addition, one human plasma-derived C1-INH therapy and danazol are approved for prophylaxis of HAE attacks. rhC1-INH, extracted from the milk of transgenic rabbits, is a glycoprotein of 478 amino acids with an identical amino acid sequence to the endogenous human C1-INH protein. Population pharmacokinetic analysis of rhC1-INH supports an intravenous dosing strategy of 50 U/kg (maximum 4200 U). The safety and efficacy of rhC1-INH in the treatment of acute attacks in patients with HAE were demonstrated in three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies and two open-label extension studies. In a pilot prophylaxis study, weekly administration of rhC1-INH 50 U/kg for 8 weeks reduced the incidence of HAE attacks and was well tolerated. Administration of rhC1-INH has not been associated with the development of anti-drug antibodies or antibodies to anti-host-related impurities.