AstraZeneca Showcases Strength of Hematology Portfolio and Pipeline Across Multiple Hard-to-Treat Conditions at ASH 2022
AstraZeneca showcased 47 abstracts at the 64th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting, emphasizing the efficacy and safety of its hematology portfolio, notably CALQUENCE and new pipeline drugs like TNB-486 (AZD0486). Key data included long-term results and early-stage trials across various blood cancers. CALQUENCE demonstrated a consistent safety profile in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), while TNB-486 showed potential in relapsed B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Research on rare diseases was also highlighted, aiming to improve diagnosis and treatment.
- CALQUENCE's long-term follow-up data supports its safety and efficacy in CLL.
- TNB-486 (AZD0486) shows promising early clinical data in treating B-cell malignancies.
- 47 abstracts presented indicate strong ongoing research and development efforts in hematology.
- Potential risks of serious infections and hemorrhagic events associated with CALQUENCE treatment.
- Adverse events led to dose reductions in patients treated with CALQUENCE.
CALQUENCE real-world evidence and long-term follow-up data, as well as research collaborations, will reinforce efficacy and safety across B-cell malignancies
Early clinical data will illustrate potential of multiple pipeline molecules, including TNB-486 (AZD0486), across hematologic malignancies
Research from Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, offers new insights to accelerate innovation and improve time to diagnosis for several rare diseases
A total of eight approved and potential new medicines will be featured across more than 10 types of blood cancers and rare diseases, including data in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), follicular lymphoma (FL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) and amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidosis.
CALQUENCE® (acalabrutinib) real-world evidence and long-term follow-up data support consistent efficacy and safety profile
- A post-hoc safety analysis from the head-to-head ELEVATE-RR Phase III trial of CALQUENCE versus ibrutinib will further support tolerability differences of CALQUENCE in relapsed or refractory CLL.1
- Final long-term follow-up results of the Phase I/II trials evaluating CALQUENCE monotherapy in front-line and relapsed or refractory CLL will further support the continued efficacy and safety CALQUENCE demonstrated in both settings.2,3
-
An oral presentation of Phase II research sponsored by the
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute will show the efficacy and tolerability of CALQUENCE combined with venetoclax and obinutuzumab in a front-line, high-risk CLL population.4 - A retrospective pooled analysis will show the benefit of adding obinutuzumab to CALQUENCE in the front-line CLL setting in patients with select genomic characteristics.5
- An oral presentation of preliminary Phase II results sponsored by Weill Cornell Medicine will show that CALQUENCE combined with lenalidomide and rituximab is generally well-tolerated, highly effective and produces high rates of minimal residual disease-negative complete remission in front-line MCL.6
Novel treatment strategies with emerging pipeline molecules exhibit therapeutic potential
- An oral presentation of interim Phase I results evaluating TNB-486 (AZD0486), a CD19/CD3 next generation bispecific T-cell engager, will show the potential of targeting CD19/CD3, leading to an increase in anti-cancer activity in heavily pretreated patients with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).7
- Results from Phase I and II trials of CDK9 inhibitor AZD4573 alone and with CALQUENCE will exhibit data on tolerability across a broad range of hematologic malignancies, including relapsed or refractory DLBCL.8,9
- Preliminary results from an ongoing Phase I trial will demonstrate that Bcl-2/Bcl-xl inhibitor AZD0466 has been well-tolerated in patients with advanced hematologic malignancies.10
Innovating to help address the treatment needs of all patients with PNH
- An oral presentation detailing interim results from a Phase II open-label trial of vemircopan (ALXN2050) will highlight efficacy and safety data from the treatment-naïve patient group, establishing proof-of-concept as a monotherapy for PNH.11
- An interim analysis from an ongoing Phase IV trial assessing the impact of switching to standard, weight-based intravenous (i.v.) ULTOMIRIS® (ravulizumab-cwvz) from high-dose i.v. SOLIRIS® (eculizumab) in adults with PNH will be presented.12
Improving diagnosis and management of life-threatening rare diseases
- An analysis of data from the Global aHUS Registry, which contains information on patients across more than 100 sites in more than 20 countries, will highlight the importance of considering aHUS as a diagnosis even in the presence of a triggering condition or associated event.13
- An analysis of real-world patient data from the US Premier Healthcare Database will expand on the potential of the PLASMIC scoring system to aid in identifying people with aHUS and making earlier treatment decisions.14
- An analysis of pediatric patients with hematopoietic stem cell transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (HSCT-TMA) will provide insights on the correlation between complement activation and endothelial damage in HSCT-TMA and the potential for useful biomarkers indicative of this damage to inform diagnosis.15
-
Results through one year on safety, tolerability and biomarker data will be presented from a Phase II trial evaluating
CAEL -101, a potentially first-in-class monoclonal antibody, in adults with AL amyloidosis.16 - A real-world analysis in a current population with AL amyloidosis using Komodo Health US claims data will highlight the need for greater awareness and understanding to accelerate time to diagnosis.17
Key presentations during the 64th ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition
Lead author |
Abstract title |
Presentation details |
CALQUENCE (acalabrutinib) |
|
|
Byrd, J |
Final Results of the Phase 1/2 Study of Acalabrutinib Monotherapy in Treatment-Naive Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia with >6 Years of Follow-Up |
Abstract # 4431 Poster Session: 642. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster III
Location: Hall D ( |
Davids, MS |
Contribution of Obinutuzumab to Acalabrutinib Therapy in Patients with Treatment-Naive Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Analysis of Survival Outcomes by Genomic Features |
Abstract # 1815 Poster Session: 642. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster I
Location: Hall D ( |
Davies, AJ |
Durable Responses from Acalabrutinib in Combination with Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine and Prednisolone (R-CHOP) as First Line Therapy for Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL): The ACCEPT Phase Ib/II Single Arm Study |
Abstract # 4265 Poster Session: 626. Aggressive Lymphomas: Prospective Therapeutic Trials: Poster III
Location: Hall D ( |
Furman, R |
Phase 1/2 Study of Acalabrutinib Monotherapy in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Final Results with >4 Years of Follow-Up |
Abstract # 4434 Poster Session: 642. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster III
Location: Hall D ( |
Ruan, J |
Phase 2 Trial of Acalabrutinib-Lenalidomide-Rituximab (ALR) with Real-Time Monitoring of MRD in Patients with Treatment-Naïve Mantle Cell Lymphoma |
Abstract # 73
Location: La Nouvelle Orleans Ballroom C ( |
Ryan, CE |
Updated Results from a Multicenter, Phase 2 Study of Acalabrutinib, Venetoclax, Obinutuzumab (AVO) in a Population of Previously Untreated Patients with CLL Enriched for High-Risk Disease |
Abstract # 344
Location: R06-R09 ( |
Seymour, JF |
Assessing the Burden of Adverse Events in a Head-to-Head Trial of Acalabrutinib Versus Ibrutinib in Previously Treated Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) |
Abstract # 3133 Poster Session: 642. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster II
Location: Hall D ( |
AZD0486 (CD19/CD3 T-cell engager) |
|
|
Hou, JZ |
Interim Results of the Phase 1 Study of Tnb-486, a Novel CD19xCD3 T-Cell Engager, in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) B-NHL |
Abstract # 612
Location: 278-282 ( |
AZD0466 (Bcl-2/Bcl-xL inhibitor) |
||
Arslan, S |
Safety and Tolerability of AZD0466 as Monotherapy for Patients with Advanced Hematological Malignancies. Preliminary Results from an Ongoing Phase I/II Trial |
Abstract # 4094 Poster Session: 616. Acute Myeloid Leukemias: Investigational Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Poster III
Location: Hall D ( |
AZD4573 (CDK9 inhibitor) |
||
Brümmendorf, T |
Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics (PK) and Preliminary Antitumor Activity of the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-9 (CDK9) Inhibitor AZD4573 in Relapsed/Refractory Hematological Malignancies: A Phase 1 First-in-Human Study |
Abstract # 1353 Poster Session: 605. Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Resistance: Lymphoid Neoplasms: Poster I
Location: Hall D ( |
Strati, P |
Phase 1b/2a Study of AZD4573 (CDK9i) and Acalabrutinib in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (r/r DLBCL): Results from Dose-Escalation |
Abstract # 2962 Poster Session: 627. Aggressive Lymphomas: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster II
Location: Hall D ( |
VEMIRCOPAN (ALXN2050) |
|
|
Browett, P
|
Vemircopan (ALXN2050) Monotherapy in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria: Interim Data from a Phase 2 Open-Label Proof-of-Concept Study |
Abstract # 294
Location: 260-262 ( |
ULTOMIRIS (ravulizumab-cwvz) |
||
Griffin, M
|
Terminal Complement Inhibition and Control of Hemolysis in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Following Switching from High-Dose Eculizumab to Ravulizumab: An Interim Analysis |
Abstract # 1251 Poster Session: 508. Bone Marrow Failure: Acquired: Poster I
Location: Hall D ( |
ALXN1820 |
||
Dai, Y
|
A Phase 2a, Randomized, Open-Label Study to Evaluate Multiple Dosing Regimens of Subcutaneous ALXN1820 in Adult Patients with Sickle Cell Disease |
Abstract # 3713 Poster Session: 114. Hemoglobinopathies, Excluding Thalassemia: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster III
Location: Hall D ( |
|
||
Valent, J |
1-Year Results from a Phase 2 Study to Determine Safety and Tolerability of Treating Patients with Light-Chain (AL) Amyloidosis with |
Abstract # 4550 Poster Session: 653. Myeloma and Plasma Cell Dyscrasias: Prospective Therapeutic Trials: Poster III
Location: Hall D ( |
AL Amyloidosis |
||
Catini, J |
Evaluation of the Path to Diagnosis and Time to Treatment in Patients with Light-Chain Amyloidosis Using the Komodo Claims Database |
Abstract # 1887 Poster Session: 652. Multiple Myeloma and Plasma Cell Dyscrasias: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster I
Location: Hall D ( |
HSCT-TMA |
||
Jacobi, P |
Complement Activation is Associated with Endothelial Damage in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Associated-Thrombotic Microangiopathy |
Abstract # 2431 Poster Session: 301. Vasculature, Endothelium, Thrombosis and Platelets: Basic and Translational: Poster II
Location: Hall D ( |
aHUS |
||
Gasteyger, C
|
Use of PLASMIC Scores to Aid Diagnosis of aHUS: A Real-World Analysis of Hospitalized Patients from the Premier Healthcare Database |
Abstract # 1178 Poster Session: 331. Thrombotic Microangiopathies/Thrombocytopenias and COVID-19-related Thrombotic/Vascular Disorders: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster I
Location: Hall D ( |
Siedlecki, A
|
Characterization of Patients with aHUS and Triggering/Associated Events, with and without Complement Pathogenic Variants or anti-CFH Antibodies: A Global aHUS Registry Analysis |
Abstract # 1173 Poster Session: 331. Thrombotic Microangiopathies/Thrombocytopenias and COVID-19-related Thrombotic/Vascular Disorders: Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster I
Location: Hall D ( |
INDICATION AND USAGE
CALQUENCE is a Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor indicated for the treatment of adult patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) who have received at least one prior therapy.
This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.
CALQUENCE is also indicated for the treatment of adult patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL).
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT CALQUENCE® (acalabrutinib) tablets
Serious and Opportunistic Infections
Fatal and serious infections, including opportunistic infections, have occurred in patients with hematologic malignancies treated with CALQUENCE.
Serious or Grade 3 or higher infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal) occurred in
Hemorrhage
Fatal and serious hemorrhagic events have occurred in patients with hematologic malignancies treated with CALQUENCE. Major hemorrhage (serious or Grade 3 or higher bleeding or any central nervous system bleeding) occurred in
Use of antithrombotic agents concomitantly with CALQUENCE may further increase the risk of hemorrhage. In clinical trials, major hemorrhage occurred in
Consider the benefit-risk of withholding CALQUENCE for 3-7 days pre- and post-surgery depending upon the type of surgery and the risk of bleeding.
Cytopenias
Grade 3 or 4 cytopenias, including neutropenia (
Second Primary Malignancies
Second primary malignancies, including skin cancers and other solid tumors, occurred in
Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter
Grade 3 atrial fibrillation or flutter occurred in
ADVERSE REACTIONS
The most common adverse reactions (≥
*Treatment-emergent decreases (all grades) of hemoglobin (
Dose reductions or discontinuations due to any adverse reaction were reported in
The most common adverse reactions (≥
*Treatment-emergent decreases (all grades) of hemoglobin, platelets, and neutrophils were based on laboratory measurements and adverse reactions.
In patients with previously untreated CLL exposed to CALQUENCE, fatal adverse reactions that occurred in the absence of disease progression and with onset within 30 days of the last study treatment were reported in
Adverse reactions led to CALQUENCE dose reduction in
In patients with relapsed/refractory CLL exposed to CALQUENCE, serious adverse reactions occurred in
Adverse reactions led to CALQUENCE dose reduction in
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Strong CYP3A Inhibitors: Avoid co-administration of CALQUENCE with a strong CYP3A inhibitor. If these inhibitors will be used short-term, interrupt CALQUENCE. After discontinuation of strong CYP3A inhibitor for at least 24 hours, resume previous dosage of CALQUENCE.
Moderate CYP3A Inhibitors: Reduce the dosage of CALQUENCE to 100 mg once daily when co-administered with a moderate CYP3A inhibitor.
Strong CYP3A Inducers: Avoid co-administration of CALQUENCE with a strong CYP3A inducer. If co-administration is unavoidable, increase the dosage of CALQUENCE to 200 mg approximately every 12 hours.
SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Based on findings in animals, CALQUENCE may cause fetal harm and dystocia when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available data in pregnant women to inform the drug-associated risk. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.
Pregnancy testing is recommended for females of reproductive potential prior to initiating CALQUENCE therapy. Advise female patients of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with CALQUENCE and for 1 week following the last dose of CALQUENCE.
It is not known if CALQUENCE is present in human milk. Advise lactating women not to breastfeed while taking CALQUENCE and for 2 weeks after the last dose.
Avoid use of CALQUENCE in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C). No dosage adjustment of CALQUENCE is recommended in patients with mild (Child-Pugh class A) or moderate (Child-Pugh class B) hepatic impairment.
Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.
INDICATION(S) & IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION for ULTOMIRIS
INDICATION(S)
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)
ULTOMIRIS is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients one month of age and older with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH).
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS)
ULTOMIRIS is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients one month of age and older with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) to inhibit complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA).
Limitation of Use:
ULTOMIRIS is not indicated for the treatment of patients with Shiga toxin E. coli related hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS).
Subcutaneous Use in Adult Patients with PNH or aHUS
Subcutaneous administration of ULTOMIRIS is not approved for use in pediatric patients.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
WARNING: SERIOUS MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTIONS Life-threatening meningococcal infections/sepsis have occurred in patients treated with ULTOMIRIS. Meningococcal infection may become rapidly life-threatening or fatal if not recognized and treated early.
Because of the risk of serious meningococcal infections, ULTOMIRIS is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called ULTOMIRIS REMS. |
CONTRAINDICATIONS
- Patients with unresolved Neisseria meningitidis infection.
- Patients who are not currently vaccinated against Neisseria meningitidis, unless the risks of delaying ULTOMIRIS treatment outweigh the risks of developing a meningococcal infection.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Serious Meningococcal Infections
Life-threatening meningococcal infections have occurred in patients treated with ULTOMIRIS. The use of ULTOMIRIS increases a patient’s susceptibility to serious meningococcal infections (septicemia and/or meningitis). Meningococcal disease due to any serogroup may occur.
Vaccinate or revaccinate for meningococcal disease according to the most current ACIP recommendations for patients with complement deficiencies. Immunize patients without history of meningococcal vaccination at least 2 weeks prior to the first dose of ULTOMIRIS. Patients who initiate ULTOMIRIS treatment less than 2 weeks after receiving meningococcal vaccine(s) must receive appropriate prophylactic antibiotics until 2 weeks after vaccination.
In clinical studies, 59 adult patients with PNH and 2 adult patients with gMG were treated with ULTOMIRIS less than 2 weeks after meningococcal vaccination. All of these patients received antibiotics for prophylaxis of meningococcal infection until at least 2 weeks after meningococcal vaccination. The benefits and risks of antibiotic prophylaxis for prevention of meningococcal infections in patients receiving ULTOMIRIS have not been established. In clinical studies with ULTOMIRIS, <
ULTOMIRIS REMS
Due to the risk of meningococcal infections, ULTOMIRIS is available only through a restricted program under a REMS called ULTOMIRIS REMS.
Under the ULTOMIRIS REMS, prescribers must enroll in the program. Prescribers must counsel patients about the risk of meningococcal infection/sepsis, provide the patients with the REMS educational materials, and ensure patients are vaccinated with meningococcal vaccines.
Additional information on the REMS requirements is available at www.ultomirisrems.com or 1-888-765-4747.
Other Infections
Patients may have increased susceptibility to infections, especially with encapsulated bacteria, such as infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis but also Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and to a lesser extent, Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Children treated with ULTOMIRIS may be at increased risk of developing serious infections due to Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Administer vaccinations for the prevention of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infections according to ACIP guidelines. If ULTOMIRIS is administered to patients with active systemic infections, monitor closely for worsening infection.
Monitoring Disease Manifestations after ULTOMIRIS Discontinuation
Treatment Discontinuation for PNH
After discontinuing treatment with ULTOMIRIS, closely monitor for signs and symptoms of hemolysis, identified by elevated LDH along with sudden decrease in PNH clone size or hemoglobin, or re-appearance of symptoms such as fatigue, hemoglobinuria, abdominal pain, shortness of breath (dyspnea), major adverse vascular event (including thrombosis), dysphagia, or erectile dysfunction. Monitor any patient who discontinues ULTOMIRIS for at least 16 weeks to detect hemolysis and other reactions. If signs and symptoms of hemolysis occur after discontinuation, including elevated LDH, consider restarting treatment with ULTOMIRIS.
Treatment Discontinuation for aHUS
ULTOMIRIS treatment of aHUS should be a minimum duration of 6 months. Due to heterogeneous nature of aHUS events and patient-specific risk factors, treatment duration beyond the initial 6 months should be individualized. There are no specific data on ULTOMIRIS discontinuation. After discontinuing treatment with ULTOMIRIS, patients should be monitored for clinical symptoms and laboratory signs of TMA complications for at least 12 months.
TMA complications post-discontinuation can be identified if any of the following is observed: Clinical symptoms of TMA include changes in mental status, seizures, angina, dyspnea, thrombosis or increasing blood pressure. In addition, at least two of the following laboratory signs observed concurrently and results should be confirmed by a second measurement 28 days apart with no interruption: a decrease in platelet count of
Thromboembolic Event Management
The effect of withdrawal of anticoagulant therapy during treatment with ULTOMIRIS has not been established. Treatment should not alter anticoagulant management.
Infusion-Related Reactions
Intravenous or subcutaneous administration of ULTOMIRIS may result in systemic infusion-related reactions, including anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity reactions. In clinical trials, infusion-related reactions occurred in approximately
Injection Site Reactions- Subcutaneous administration
Allergies to Acrylic Adhesives
The on-body injector of ULTOMIRIS uses acrylic adhesive. For patients with a known allergy to acrylic adhesive, use of this product may result in an allergic reaction. Premedication can be considered, and supportive measures should be instituted if signs of allergy appear.
ADVERSE REACTIONS
Adverse Reactions for PNH
Adverse reactions reported in
Adverse reactions reported in
Adverse Reactions for aHUS
Most common adverse reactions in patients with aHUS (incidence ≥
Adverse Reactions for
Most common adverse reactions (≥
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Plasma Exchange, Plasmapheresis, and Intravenous Immunoglobulins
Concomitant use of ULTOMIRIS with plasma exchange (PE), plasmapheresis (PP), or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment can reduce serum ravulizumab concentrations and requires a supplemental dose of ULTOMIRIS.
Neonatal Fc Receptor Blockers
Concomitant use of ULTOMIRIS with neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) blockers (e.g., efgartigimod) may lower systemic exposures and reduce effectiveness of ULTOMIRIS. Closely monitor for reduced effectiveness of ULTOMIRIS.
Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information for ULTOMIRIS, including Boxed WARNING regarding serious and life-threatening meningococcal infections/sepsis.
INDICATIONS & IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR SOLIRIS® (eculizumab)
INDICATIONS
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)
Soliris is indicated for the treatment of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) to reduce hemolysis.
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS)
Soliris is indicated for the treatment of patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) to inhibit complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy.
Limitation of Use
Soliris is not indicated for the treatment of patients with Shiga toxin E. coli related hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS).
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
WARNING: SERIOUS MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTIONS
Soliris is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS). Under the Soliris REMS, prescribers must enroll in the program. Enrollment in the Soliris REMS program and additional information are available by telephone: 1-888-SOLIRIS (1-888-765-4747) or at www.solirisrems.com. |
Contraindications
- Patients with unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis infection
- Patients who are not currently vaccinated against Neisseria meningitidis, unless the risks of delaying Soliris treatment outweigh the risks of developing a meningococcal infection
Warnings and Precautions
Serious Meningococcal Infections
Risk and Prevention
The use of Soliris increases a patient's susceptibility to serious meningococcal infections (septicemia and/or meningitis).
Vaccinate or revaccinate for meningococcal disease according to the most current ACIP recommendations for patients with complement deficiencies. Immunize patients without a history of meningococcal vaccination at least 2 weeks prior to receiving the first dose of Soliris. If Soliris must be initiated immediately in an unvaccinated patient, administer meningococcal vaccine(s) as soon as possible and provide 2 weeks of antibacterial drug prophylaxis. Discontinue Soliris in patients who are undergoing treatment for serious meningococcal infections.
REMS
Prescribers must counsel patients about the risk of meningococcal infection, provide the patients with the REMS educational materials, and ensure patients are vaccinated with meningococcal vaccine(s).
Other Infections
Serious infections with Neisseria species (other than N. meningitidis), including disseminated gonococcal infections, have been reported.
Patients may have increased susceptibility to infections, especially with encapsulated bacteria. Additionally, Aspergillus infections have occurred in immunocompromised and neutropenic patients. Children treated with Soliris may be at increased risk of developing serious infections due to Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Administer vaccinations for the prevention of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infections according to ACIP guidelines. Use caution when administering Soliris to patients with any systemic infection.
Monitoring Disease Manifestations After Soliris Discontinuation
Treatment Discontinuation for PNH
Monitor patients after discontinuing Soliris for at least 8 weeks to detect hemolysis.
Treatment Discontinuation for aHUS
After discontinuing Soliris, monitor patients with aHUS for signs and symptoms of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) complications for at least 12 weeks. In aHUS clinical trials, 18 patients (5 in the prospective studies) discontinued Soliris treatment. TMA complications occurred following a missed dose in 5 patients, and Soliris was reinitiated in 4 of these 5 patients.
Clinical signs and symptoms of TMA include changes in mental status, seizures, angina, dyspnea, or thrombosis. In addition, the following changes in laboratory parameters may identify a TMA complication: occurrence of 2, or repeated measurement of any one of the following: a decrease in platelet count by
If TMA complications occur after Soliris discontinuation, consider reinstitution of Soliris treatment, plasma therapy [plasmapheresis, plasma exchange, or fresh frozen plasma infusion (PE/PI)], or appropriate organ-specific supportive measures.
Thrombosis Prevention and Management
The effect of withdrawal of anticoagulant therapy during Soliris treatment has not been established. Therefore, treatment with Soliris should not alter anticoagulant management.
Infusion-Related Reactions
Adverse Reactions
The most frequently reported adverse reactions in the PNH randomized trial (≥
The most frequently reported adverse reactions in aHUS single arm prospective trials (≥
Please see accompanying full prescribing information for Soliris, including Boxed WARNING regarding serious meningococcal infections.
Notes
CALQUENCE
CALQUENCE (acalabrutinib) is a next-generation, selective inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK). CALQUENCE binds covalently to BTK, thereby inhibiting its activity.18,19 In B cells, BTK signaling results in activation of pathways necessary for B-cell proliferation, trafficking, chemotaxis and adhesion.18
CALQUENCE is available for prescribing in capsule and tablet formulations in the US. CALQUENCE tablets and capsules are approved in the US for the treatment of CLL and SLL, and for the treatment of adult patients with MCL who have received at least one prior therapy.18,20 Capsules have restrictions in relation to use with gastric acid-reducing agents. The tablets are not licensed in the
CALQUENCE capsules are approved for CLL in the EU and many other countries worldwide and approved in
In the US and several other countries, CALQUENCE capsules are also approved for the treatment of adult patients with MCL who have received at least one prior therapy. The US MCL indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials. CALQUENCE is not currently approved for the treatment of MCL in
As part of an extensive clinical development program,
ULTOMIRIS
ULTOMIRIS (ravulizumab-cwvz), the first and only long-acting C5 complement inhibitor, provides immediate, complete and sustained complement inhibition. The medication works by inhibiting the C5 protein in the terminal complement cascade, a part of the body’s immune system. When activated in an uncontrolled manner, the complement cascade over-responds, leading the body to attack its own healthy cells. ULTOMIRIS is administered intravenously every eight weeks in adult patients, following a loading dose.
ULTOMIRIS is approved in the US, EU and
ULTOMIRIS is also approved in the US, EU and
Additionally, ULTOMIRIS is approved in the US, EU and
As part of a broad development program, ULTOMIRIS is being assessed for the treatment of additional hematology and neurology indications.
SOLIRIS
SOLIRIS (eculizumab) is a first-in-class C5 complement inhibitor. The medication works by inhibiting the C5 protein in the terminal complement cascade, a part of the body’s immune system. When activated in an uncontrolled manner, the terminal complement cascade over-responds, leading the body to attack its own healthy cells. SOLIRIS is administered intravenously every two weeks, following an introductory dosing period.
SOLIRIS is approved in the US, EU and
SOLIRIS is not indicated for the treatment of patients with STEC-HUS.
By targeting hematologic conditions with high unmet medical needs, we aim to deliver innovative medicines and approaches to improve patient outcomes. Our goal is to help transform the lives of patients living with malignant, rare and other related hematologic diseases, shaped by insights from patients, caregivers and physicians to have the most meaningful impact.
The Company’s focus is on some of the most challenging cancers. It is through persistent innovation that
About Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease
Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, is the group within
About
References
-
Seymour JF, Byrd JC, Munir T, et al. Assessing the Burden of Adverse Events in a Head-to-Head Trial of Acalabrutinib Versus Ibrutinib in Previously Treated Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 3133. -
Byrd JC, Woyach JA, Furman RR, et al. Final Results of the Phase 1/2 Study of Acalabrutinib Monotherapy in Treatment-Naive Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia with >6 Years of Follow-up [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 4431. -
Furman RR, Wierda WG, Schuh A, et al. Phase 1/2 Study of Acalabrutinib Monotherapy in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Final Results with >4 Years of Follow-up [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 4434. -
Ryan CE, Lampson BL, Tyekucheva, S, et al. Updated Results from a Multicenter, Phase 2 Study of Acalabrutinib, Venetoclax, Obinutuzumab (AVO) in a Population of Previously Untreated Patients with CLL Enriched for High-Risk Disease [abstract and oral]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 344. -
Davids MS, Sharman JP, Eyre TA, et al. Contribution of Obinutuzumab to Acalabrutinib Therapy in Patients with Treatment-Naive Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Analysis of Survival Outcomes by Genomic Features [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 1815. -
Ruan J, Leonard JP, Chen GZ, et al. Phase 2 Trial of Acalabrutinib-Lenalidomide-Rituximab (ALR) with Real-Time Monitoring of MRD in Patients with Treatment-Naïve Mantle Cell Lymphoma [abstract and oral]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 73. -
Hou JZ, Jacobs R, Cho SG, et al. Interim Results of the Phase 1 Study of Tnb-486, a Novel CD19xCD3 T-Cell Engager, in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) B-NHL [abstract and oral]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 612. -
Brümmendorf T, Medd P, Koch R, et al. Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics (PK) and Preliminary Antitumor Activity of the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-9 (CDK9) Inhibitor AZD4573 in Relapsed/Refractory Hematological Malignancies: A Phase 1 First-in-Human Study [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 1353. -
Strati P, Kim TM, Danilov A, et al. Phase 1b/2a Study of AZD4573 (CDK9i) and Acalabrutinib in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (r/r DLBCL): Results from Dose-Escalation [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 2962. -
Arslan S, Fleming S, Jain N, et al. Safety and Tolerability of AZD0466 as Monotherapy for Patients with Advanced Hematological Malignancies. Preliminary Results from an Ongoing Phase I/II Trial [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 4094. -
Browett P, Kulasekararaj A, Notaro R, et al. Vemircopan (ALXN2050) Monotherapy in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria: Interim Data from a Phase 2 Open-Label Proof-of-Concept Study [abstract and oral]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 294. -
Griffin M, Gandhi S, Hicks E, et al. Terminal Complement Inhibition and Control of Hemolysis in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Following Switching from High-Dose Eculizumab to Ravulizumab: An Interim Analysis [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 1251. -
Siedlecki A, Al-Dakkak I, Anokhina K, et al. Characterization of Patients with aHUS and Triggering/Associated Events, with and without Complement Pathogenic Variants or Anti-CFH Antibodies: A Global aHUS Registry Analysis [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 1173. -
Gasteyger C,
Uriol-Rivera M , Ávila A, et al. Use of PLASMIC Scores to Aid Diagnosis of aHUS: A Real-World Analysis of Hospitalized Patients from the Premier Healthcare Database [abstract and poster]. Presented at:American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 1178. -
Jacobi P, Cofiell R, Chang CH, et. al. Complement Activation is Associated with Endothelial Damage in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Associated-Thrombotic Microangiopathy [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 2431. -
Valent J, Liedtke M, Zonder J, et al. 1-Year Results from a Phase 2 Study to Determine Safety and Tolerability of Treating Patients with Light-Chain (AL) Amyloidosis with
CAEL -101, an Anti-Amyloid Monoclonal Antibody, Combined with Anti-Plasma Cell Dyscrasia [abstract and poster]. Presented at:American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 4550. -
Catini J, Doan Q, Evans J, et al. Evaluation of the Path to Diagnosis and Time to Treatment in Patients with Light-Chain Amyloidosis Using the Komodo Claims Database [abstract and poster]. Presented at:
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Congress ;December 10-13, 2022 ;New Orleans, LA . Abs 1887. -
CALQUENCE® (acalabrutinib) capsules [prescribing information].
Wilmington, DE ;AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP ; 2019. - Wu J, Zhang M, Liu D. Acalabrutinib (ACP-196): a selective second-generation BTK inhibitor. J Hematol Oncol. 2016;9(21).
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CALQUENCE® (acalabrutinib) tablets [prescribing information].
Wilmington, DE ;AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP ; 2022.
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