The FDA has recently approved two new treatments for distinct conditions: Eli Lilly's Omvoh (mirikizumab) for Crohn's disease and Roche's Susvimo implant for diabetic macular edema (DME). These approvals represent advancements in treatment options for patients with these chronic conditions.
Omvoh Approved for Crohn's Disease
Eli Lilly's Omvoh (mirikizumab) has been granted FDA approval for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease. Mirikizumab is a monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to the p19 subunit of interleukin-23 (IL-23), a cytokine involved in inflammatory pathways. This approval provides a new therapeutic option for patients who have had inadequate response or are intolerant to other therapies.
The approval was based on data from a comprehensive clinical trial program, including two Phase 3 induction studies and a Phase 3 maintenance study. These studies demonstrated that mirikizumab resulted in significant improvements in both endoscopic and clinical outcomes compared to placebo. Specifically, a statistically significant proportion of patients treated with mirikizumab achieved endoscopic remission and clinical remission at both the induction and maintenance phases. The safety profile of mirikizumab was consistent with previous studies, with the most common adverse reactions including upper respiratory infections, injection site reactions, and headache.
Roche's Susvimo Implant Re-approved for Diabetic Macular Edema
Roche has received FDA re-approval for Susvimo (ranibizumab injection) 2mg/mL for intravitreal use via an ocular implant, for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) in patients who have previously responded to at least two anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections. Susvimo is a refillable implant surgically placed in the eye that continuously delivers ranibizumab, a VEGF inhibitor. This approval offers a long-term treatment alternative that reduces the frequency of intravitreal injections, potentially improving patient adherence and visual outcomes.
The re-approval follows an earlier recall and is supported by data from the Phase 3 ARCHWAY study, which demonstrated that Susvimo was non-inferior to monthly intravitreal injections of ranibizumab in improving visual acuity. Patients receiving Susvimo required implant refills approximately every six months. The most common adverse reactions associated with Susvimo include conjunctival hemorrhage, eye pain, and intraocular pressure elevation. The implant is indicated for patients who have previously responded to anti-VEGF injections, ensuring that patients who are likely to benefit from continuous VEGF inhibition receive the treatment.
