Factor XI inhibitors were once heralded as the potential 'Goldilocks' of anticoagulants, offering a reduction in thrombotic risk without significantly increasing bleeding risks. Early phase 2 data and trials in orthopedic patients were promising. However, the phase 3 OCEANIC-AF trial, which compared the novel factor XI inhibitor asundexian (Bayer) with the direct-acting oral anticoagulant apixaban in atrial fibrillation patients, was stopped early for futility.
Key Findings:
- Asundexian vs. Apixaban: Asundexian did not show superior stroke prevention and was inferior to apixaban, with patients on asundexian experiencing a higher risk of ischemic stroke.
- Dosing Concerns: Experts believe the trial's dose of asundexian may not have sufficiently inhibited factor XI, suggesting a higher dose or inhibition of both factor XI and XIa might be necessary.
- Ongoing Trials: Despite the setback, the scientific community remains hopeful, with several other factor XI inhibitors in phase 3 testing, including abelacimab and milvexian.
Expert Opinions:
- Jonathan P. Piccini, MD, MHS: Emphasizes the importance of large randomized clinical trials and suggests it's premature to conclude factor XI inhibitors are ineffective based on a single trial.
- Felice Gragnano, MD: Notes the methodological soundness of the OCEANIC-AF trial but points out the unclear reasons behind the differential stroke risk increase in patients naive to anticoagulation versus those previously treated.
- Dominick J. Angiolillo, MD, PhD: Highlights the fascinating science behind factor XI inhibitors and the critical importance of thorough phase testing to determine the most appropriate dose and study population.
Conclusion:
The OCEANIC-AF trial's outcomes underscore the complexities of developing new anticoagulants and the necessity for continued research and clinical trials. The scientific community remains committed to exploring factor XI inhibitors, given the significant unmet need in atrial fibrillation treatment and the potential for these drugs to revolutionize anticoagulation therapy.
