Opinion
Video
Efgartigimod for CIDP in Clinical Practice
Author(s):
Panelists discuss how clinical experience with efgartigimod, a newly FDA-approved treatment for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), demonstrates positive outcomes and a favorable safety profile, while also addressing challenges in transitioning patients from other therapies and emphasizing the importance of proper patient selection and monitoring.
Summary for Physicians:
This segment focuses on clinical experience with efgartigimod, a newly FDA-approved treatment for CIDP, and the key factors that help clinicians determine which patients are most suitable for this therapy.
Key Points:
1. Experience With Efgartigimod: Efgartigimod, which targets the FcRn receptor to reduce pathogenic autoantibodies, has shown promise in treating CIDP. Clinical experience so far indicates:
- Positive Outcomes: Many patients have experienced significant improvements in disease symptoms, including reduced disability and enhanced quality of life. It appears particularly beneficial for patients with antibody-mediated forms of CIDP.
- Well Tolerated: Efgartigimod has been generally well tolerated, with infusion-related reactions being the most common adverse effect, but these are usually manageable. Overall, the safety profile is considered favorable compared with more traditional therapies like intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg).
- Challenges in Transitioning: Some clinicians report challenges when transitioning patients from other therapies, such as IVIg, to efgartigimod, with some patients experiencing delayed responses or worsening symptoms in the initial stages of treatment.
2.Selecting Candidates for Efgartigimod: Deciding who is a good candidate for efgartigimod requires careful patient evaluation. The following factors influence this decision:
- Disease Severity and Response to Other Therapies: Efgartigimod may be a good option for patients who are refractory or inadequately responsive to IVIg or corticosteroids. It’s particularly useful for those with antibody-mediated forms of CIDP who may benefit from FcRn inhibition.
- Disease Duration and Stability: Patients who have more chronic forms of CIDP, or those who have stable disease but require long-term therapy, may benefit from efgartigimod as a maintenance therapy.
- Tolerability of Other Treatments: For patients who experience adverse effects or infusion-related reactions from IVIg or other treatments, efgartigimod may offer a suitable alternative, as it generally has fewer systemic adverse effects.
- Patient Preference and Lifestyle: Efgartigimod may appeal to patients who prefer a more flexible treatment regimen, such as those who would prefer fewer hospital visits or those who struggle with the administration of IV therapies.
- Safety Considerations: Careful consideration must be given to potential risks, including the impact on immune function and the need for frequent monitoring, particularly during the initial stages of treatment.
In conclusion, efgartigimod presents a promising new treatment option for CIDP, especially for patients who are refractory to or intolerant of other therapies
