The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved VYVGART Hytrulo (efgartigimod alfa and hyaluronidase-qvfc) for the treatment of adult patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Developed by argenx, VYVGART Hytrulo is the first and only neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) blocker approved for CIDP, administered as a once-weekly 30-to-90 second subcutaneous injection. This approval marks a significant advancement in CIDP treatment, offering a new mechanism of action to address this debilitating condition.
Clinical Trial Data
The FDA approval is based on the ADHERE study, a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The study enrolled 322 adult patients with CIDP, including both treatment-naïve patients and those previously treated with immunoglobulin therapy or corticosteroids. The primary endpoint was met (p<0.0001), demonstrating a 61% reduction (HR: 0.39 95% CI: 0.25; 0.61) in the risk of relapse versus placebo. Specifically, 69% (221/322) of patients treated with VYVGART Hytrulo showed evidence of clinical improvement, including enhanced mobility, function, and strength.
Jeffrey Allen, M.D., Professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of Minnesota and Principal Investigator in the ADHERE trial, noted, "Today marks a groundbreaking day for the treatment of CIDP... Today’s approval of VYVGART Hytrulo gives doctors and patients a new, safe and effective treatment option that may lessen the burden of treatment that some patients experience."
Understanding CIDP
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare, immune-mediated neuromuscular disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system. It leads to progressive muscle weakness, fatigue, and sensory loss in the limbs. Approximately 24,000 patients in the U.S. are currently receiving treatment for CIDP. Without treatment, about one-third of individuals with CIDP may require a wheelchair.
Mechanism of Action
VYVGART Hytrulo works by binding to the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), reducing circulating IgG antibodies. This mechanism is particularly relevant in CIDP, where IgG antibodies are believed to play a key role in the damage to peripheral nerves.
Safety Profile
The safety profile of VYVGART Hytrulo in the ADHERE trial was consistent with previous studies. Common side effects included respiratory tract infection, headache, and urinary tract infection. Injection site reactions were also observed.
Access and Support
argenx is committed to ensuring patient access to VYVGART Hytrulo, with the medication expected to be available immediately in the U.S. The company has established a patient support program, My VYVGART Path, to assist patients and healthcare providers with access, education, and financial assistance.
