ALK's sublingual immunotherapy tablet ODACTRA® has received FDA approval for expanded use in children aged 5 through 11 years old for the treatment of house dust mite (HDM)-induced allergic rhinitis, with or without conjunctivitis. This approval extends the treatment's availability beyond its original indication for patients aged 12 through 65.
Clinical Trial Success Supports Expansion
The approval stems from the groundbreaking MT-12 Phase 3 clinical trial, which stands as the largest pediatric allergy immunotherapy study ever conducted. The trial enrolled 1,460 children across North America and Europe, demonstrating compelling efficacy and safety data that was subsequently published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe.
Addressing a Growing Health Challenge
House dust mite allergies represent a significant and expanding health concern, particularly among young children. Current estimates indicate that more than ten million children between ages 5 and 11 worldwide struggle with uncontrolled respiratory allergies. HDM allergies are especially concerning due to their strong association with asthma development.
Treatment Mechanism and Administration
ODACTRA® functions as an allergy immunotherapy (AIT) tablet that dissolves under the tongue, helping patients reduce both their allergy symptoms and dependence on symptomatic medications. This form of administration offers a convenient alternative to traditional allergy treatments.
Global Market Presence
The treatment is marketed under various names globally: ACARIZAX® in Europe and several international markets, MITICURE™ in Japan, and Sensimune™ in India. Prior to this FDA approval, the tablet had already received authorization for pediatric use in Europe and Japan, with a similar review currently pending in Canada.
Executive Perspective
"I'm very pleased with the FDA approval of ODACTRA® in young children, as this will enable us to provide an important and potentially life-changing treatment option for children who experience troublesome symptoms and impaired quality of life related to their allergic disease," stated Henriette Mersebach, MD, ALK's Executive Vice President of R&D.
Strategic Implications
This approval marks a significant milestone in ALK's strategy to make their complete portfolio of respiratory tablets available across all age groups - children, adolescents, and adults - in relevant markets. The company is also pursuing regulatory review of its tree tablet ITULAZAX® for pediatric use in Europe and Canada, with decisions expected in 2025.
