Post-marketing Surveillance Study Research Articles

EFFICACY AND SAFETY FOR THE COMBINATION OF PARACETAMOL, PHENYLEPHRINE AND CHLORPHENIRAMINE MALEATE IN INDIAN PAEDIATRIC PATIENTS OF COMMON COLD AND ALLERGIC RHINITIS- POST-MARKETING SURVEILLANCE STUDY

Introduction: Common cold is Self-recovering respiratory diseases which can be caused by viral infection. As till date there is no treatment for the common cold and it is self-limiting in nature, symptomatic treatment is the only option. Symptomatic treatment of common cold with a single drug is not efficacious as compared to the multiple drug combination. Combination of antipyretic (Paracetamol), nasal decongestant (Phenylephrine) and anti-histaminic agent (Chlorpheniramine Maleate) can be used for the symptomatic treatment of common cold. This post marketing surveillance study was conducted to test the efficacy and safety for the fixed dose combination of Paracetamol 125mg, Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 2.5mg and Chlorpheniramine Maleate 1mg per ml in Indian patients of age 1 to 12 months.
 Methodology: Out of 200 enrolled, 164 patients completed the study. Efficacy was evaluated by total symptom score (TSS) ranging from 0 to 10 where 0 was no symptom to 10 was the maximum tolerated symptoms. TSS was further extrapolated to four-point-Likert-type-symptom-severity-scale. Safety assessment was done by evaluation of adverse events reported by the patient.
 Results: TSS was reduced from 5.91 on day 1 to 3.57 on day 3 and 1.47 on day 5. At day 3 and day 5 the percentage reduction in the TSS as compared to the baseline was 39.48 and 75.05 respectively. During the study only 8 episodes of ADRs were reported including sedation and drowsiness.
 Conclusion: Combination of Paracetamol, Phenylephrine and Chlorpheniramine Maleate was found to be efficacious and safe for the treatment of common cold and allergic rhinitis.
 Keywords: Paracetamol, Phenylephrine, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Common Cold, Allergic Rhinitis.

Elotuzumab Plus Lenalidomide/Dexamethasone (ELd) Vs Ld in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: Phase 2, Randomized, Open-Label Study in Japan

Introduction: Elotuzumab, a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds to SLAMF7 expressed on myeloma and natural killer (NK) cells, has a dual mode of action; it causes targeted myeloma cell death by directly activating NK cells and enhances NK cell-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Elotuzumab combined with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (ELd) has been approved in Japan for the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). In a 4-y follow-up of the phase 3 ELOQUENT-2 study (NCT01239797) in patients (pts) with RRMM, ELd demonstrated a sustained 29% reduction in risk of disease progression/death and an overall survival benefit vs Ld (Dimopoulos M et al. Haematologica 2017), consistent with prior reports (Dimopoulos M et al. Br J Haematol 2017). We present the first report on the efficacy/safety of ELd vs Ld in pts with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM).Methods: In this phase 2, open-label, multicenter study (NCT02272803) in Japan enrolling pts with NDMM ineligible for high-dose chemotherapy plus hematopoietic cell transplantation, pts were randomized 1:1 to intravenous elotuzumab (10 mg/kg weekly for Cycles 1 and 2; every 2 wk for Cycles 3-18; 20 mg/kg monthly thereafter) plus Ld or Ld alone, in a 28-d cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. All pts in the ELd arm received premedication prior to elotuzumab to mitigate infusion reactions (IRs). In the absence of IRs, infusion rate was increased from 0.5-2.0 mL/min at dose 1, and up to a maximum of 5 mL/min (per FDA/EMA labels for ELd in RRMM) by dose 3 of Cycle 1. Primary endpoint was investigator-assessed objective response rate (ORR) with ELd, per International Myeloma Working Group criteria (1-sided α=0.15 for a true response rate >71%). Secondary endpoints included difference in ORR between the arms and progression-free survival (PFS). Safety was an exploratory endpoint.Results: In total, 40 and 42 pts received ELd and Ld, respectively. At database lock (March 2017; minimum follow-up of 6 mo), 31 (78%) pts in the ELd arm and 25 (60%) in the Ld arm remained on study. At baseline, median (range) age was 72 y (65-83) in the ELd arm and 73 y (62-89) in the Ld arm. Median duration of therapy was 13.0 cycles with ELd and 11.5 cycles with Ld. The most common reason for discontinuation was: ELd (9 pts)-disease progression (4/40 pts [10%]); Ld (17 pts)-drug toxicity, adverse events (AEs) unrelated to study drug, and pt request (each with 4/42 pts [10%]). The primary endpoint was met: investigator-assessed ORR (Table) was 88% with ELd; lower bound of the 2-sided 70% CI in ORR was 80% (> threshold of 71%). The ORR in the LD arm was 74%. ORR was 13% numerically higher with ELd than Ld. Very good partial response or better was observed for 45% of ELd- and 29% of Ld-treated pts. AEs were reported in 40 (100%) and 41 (98%) pts in the ELd and Ld arms, respectively. The most common (≥20%) AEs for ELd vs Ld included constipation (43% vs 31%), pyrexia (35% vs 7%), rash (28% vs 36%), diarrhea (28% vs 21%), nasopharyngitis (25% vs 26%), dysgeusia (23% vs 19%), malaise (23% vs 2%), peripheral edema (20% vs 14%), neutropenia (20% vs 14%), leukopenia (20% vs 7%), and back pain (18% vs 21%). Grade (G) 3-4 AEs occurred in 31 (78%) and 19 (45%) pts in the ELd and Ld arms, respectively. The most common G3-4 AEs (ELd vs Ld) were neutropenia (18% vs 7%) and leukopenia (15% vs 0%). One IR was reported (ELd): G2 hypersensitivity during the first infusion (2-mL/min infusion rate); elotuzumab infusion was interrupted; the pt did not experience any IRs at subsequent infusions. Thirty-eight pts (95%) received elotuzumab at 5 mL/min (representing 1046/1176 [89%] infusions) and no IRs were reported at this increased infusion rate. Secondary primary malignancies were reported in 1 pt in each arm (of the rectum and lung with ELd and Ld, respectively). ELd had a comparable safety profile when given at 10 mg/kg weekly or every 2 wk up to Cycle 18, or at 20 mg/kg monthly from Cycle 19 onwards. PFS data are not yet mature.Conclusions: In this first report of ELd treatment of pts with NDMM, the primary endpoint of ORR was met. ELd had an acceptable safety profile in this pt population, and an increased infusion rate of 5 mL/min, which reduced infusion time and did not induce additional IRs. These data suggested that ELd with a faster infusion rate of 5 mL/min was effective and well tolerated in Japanese pts with NDMM.Study support: Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K. [Display omitted] DisclosuresOhta:Bristol-Meyer Squibb K.K., Celgene K.K., Jansen Pharmaceutical K.K., Novartis Pharma K.K., Ono Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd: Honoraria. Hori:Celgene, Fujifilm RI Pharma, Shire Japan: Other: Post-marketing surveillance study fee. Kinoshita:Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K.: Employment. Shelat:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Employment, Equity Ownership. Miyoshi:Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K.: Employment.

Safety and efficacy of abiraterone acetate plus prednisolone in patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer: a prospective, observational, post-marketing surveillance study.

BackgroundAbiraterone acetate plus prednisolone is approved to treat patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of abiraterone acetate plus prednisolone in castration-resistant prostate cancer patients with or without previous chemotherapy in a real-world setting in Japan.MethodsThis study was an observational, prospective, post-marketing surveillance. Castration-resistant prostate cancer patients, who initiated abiraterone acetate after its approval in Japan, were enrolled. Data were collected during an observation period of 12 months and a follow-up period of another 12 months. Adverse events and adverse drug reactions were evaluated for safety. Prostate-specific antigen levels and overall survival were evaluated for efficacy.ResultsFrom 141 participating institutions, 497 patients were registered: 492 patients including 180 chemotherapy-naïve, 311 chemotherapy-experienced and one off-label-use patient received abiraterone and were evaluated for safety. Adverse events were observed in 225/492 patients (45.7%), adverse drug reactions in 131/492 patients (26.6%) and serious adverse drug reactions in 61/492 patients (12.4%). The most commonly observed adverse drug reaction was abnormal hepatic function (6.5%), followed by hypokalemia (3.0%) and decreased appetite (2.0%). At week 12, 110/432 patients (25.5%) achieved ≥50% decrease from baseline in prostate-specific antigen, and the proportion was higher in chemotherapy-naïve patients (56/161 patients; 34.8%) compared with chemotherapy-experienced patients (54/271 patients; 19.9%, P < 0.001). Survival rates at 24 months were 68.3% (295/432 patients), 73.9% (119/161 chemotherapy-naïve patients) and 64.9% (176/271 chemotherapy-experienced patients).ConclusionsThis large-scale, real-world, post-marketing surveillance study confirmed the safety and efficacy of abiraterone acetate plus prednisolone in Japanese castration-resistant prostate cancer patients with or without previous chemotherapy.

P485 Development and implementation of a remote monitoring tool for real-world assessment of mild, moderate and severe infectious complications in Inflammatory Bowel Disease patients

Abstract Background Immunomodulators and biologicals are cornerstones in the current management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), but are associated with increased risk of infections. Post-marketing surveillance studies are important to assess the risk for infectious side effects in real-world populations, yet mainly focus on severe infections. Data on mild and moderate infections in IBD patients are scarce, primarily since self-limiting infections and infections treated by the general practitioner are not systematically captured in surveillance registries. Mild and moderate infections take longer to clear in immunosuppressed patients, have a large impact on (work) disability and quality of life, and potentially precede severe infections. In the current study, we aimed to develop and implement a remote monitoring tool for real-world assessment of infections in IBD patients. Methods Through a structured iterative process with input from IBD specialists, nurse practitioners, and a comprehensive literature review, a 7-item Questionnaire comprising 15 different types of infections (covering e.g. upper/lower respiratory tract; urinary tract; eye; and skin infections) was developed to measure Patient-Reported Infections (PRIQ) with a recall period of 3 months. Infection severity was defined as either mild (self-limiting or requiring topical/local treatment), moderate (requiring oral antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal drugs) or severe (requiring hospitalization and/or IV treatment). To ascertain comprehensiveness and comprehensibility in the intended study population prior to implementation, in three rounds a total of 36 randomly selected IBD patients visiting the outpatient clinic were interviewed individually until saturation was reached. Results Overall, patient understanding of the PRIQ was good and cognitive interviews did not result in reduction of questionnaire-items. Analysis of feedback from interviews resulted in addition of definitions to certain response options (e.g. definition for antivirals) and minor linguistic adjustments to further improve patient understanding. A total of three patients (8.3%) raised concerns on the recall period of 3 months, which after expert consensus, did not result in alteration of the recall period. Next, the PRIQ was digitized and implemented in myIBDcoach, an established telemedicine platform for management of IBD. Conclusion We developed a remote monitoring tool (PRIQ) to assess patient-reported infections in IBD and ascertained patient understanding through cognitive interviewing. A prospective multicentre study using the myIBDcoach platform is ongoing to validate the PRIQ and subsequently report the risk of mild and moderate infections across different treatment regimens in IBD patients (NCT04151420).

Effectiveness and Overall Safety of NutropinAq® for Growth Hormone Deficiency and Other Paediatric Growth Hormone Disorders: Completion of the International Cooperative Growth Study, NutropinAq® European Registry (iNCGS).

ObjectiveThe International Cooperative Growth Study, NutropinAq® European Registry (iNCGS) (NCT00455728) monitored long-term safety and effectiveness of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH; NutropinAq® [somatropin]) in paediatric growth disorders.MethodsOpen-label, non-interventional, post-marketing surveillance study recruiting children with growth disorders. Endpoints included gain in height standard deviation score (SDS), adult height, and occurrence of adverse events (AEs).Results2792 patients were enrolled. 2082 patients (74.6%) had growth hormone deficiency (GHD), which was isolated idiopathic in 1825 patients (87.7%). Non-GHD diagnoses included Turner syndrome (TS) (n=199), chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) (n=10), other non-GHD (n=498), and missing data for three participants. Improvements from baseline height SDS occurred at all time points to Month 132, and in all subgroups by disease aetiology. At Month 12, mean (95% CI) change in height SDS by aetiology was: idiopathic GHD 0.63 (0.61;0.66), organic GHD 0.71 (0.62;0.80), TS 0.59 (0.53; 0.65), CRI 0.54 (-0.49;1.56), and other non-GHD 0.64 (0.59;0.69). Mean height ( ± SD) at the last visit among the 235 patients with adult or near-adult height recorded was 154.0 cm ( ± 8.0) for girls and 166.7 cm ( ± 8.0) for boys. The most frequent biological and clinical non-serious drug-related AEs were increased insulin-like growth factor concentrations (314 events) and injection site haematoma (99 events). Serious AEs related to rhGH according to investigators were reported (n=30); the most frequent were scoliosis (4 events), epiphysiolysis (3 events), and strabismus (2 events).ConclusionsThere was an improvement in mean height SDS in all aetiology subgroups after rhGH treatment. No new safety concerns were identified.

Characterization and selection of Japanese electronic health record databases used as data sources for non-interventional observational studies

BackgroundInterventional studies are the fundamental method for obtaining answers to clinical questions. However, these studies are sometimes difficult to conduct because of insufficient financial or human resources or the rarity of the disease in question. One means of addressing these issues is to conduct a non-interventional observational study using electronic health record (EHR) databases as the data source, although how best to evaluate the suitability of an EHR database when planning a study remains to be clarified. The aim of the present study is to identify and characterize the data sources that have been used for conducting non-interventional observational studies in Japan and propose a flow diagram to help researchers determine the most appropriate EHR database for their study goals.MethodsWe compiled a list of published articles reporting observational studies conducted in Japan by searching PubMed for relevant articles published in the last 3 years and by searching database providers’ publication lists related to studies using their databases. For each article, we reviewed the abstract and/or full text to obtain information about data source, target disease or therapeutic area, number of patients, and study design (prospective or retrospective). We then characterized the identified EHR databases.ResultsIn Japan, non-interventional observational studies have been mostly conducted using data stored locally at individual medical institutions (663/1511) or collected from several collaborating medical institutions (315/1511). Whereas the studies conducted with large-scale integrated databases (330/1511) were mostly retrospective (73.6%), 27.5% of the single-center studies, 47.6% of the multi-center studies, and 73.7% of the post-marketing surveillance studies, identified in the present study, were conducted prospectively. We used our findings to develop an assessment flow diagram to assist researchers in evaluating and choosing the most suitable EHR database for their study goals.ConclusionsOur analysis revealed that the non-interventional observational studies were conducted using data stored local at individual medical institutions or collected from collaborating medical institutions in Japan. Disease registries, disease databases, and large-scale databases would enable researchers to conduct studies with large sample sizes to provide robust data from which strong inferences could be drawn.

Efficacy and Safety of Zonisamide as Initial Monotherapy in Indian Patients with Epilepsy: A Subgroup Analysis of Prospective, Multicentre, Post-marketing Surveillance Study

Efficacy and Safety of Zonisamide as Initial Monotherapy in Indian Patients with Epilepsy: A Subgroup Analysis of Prospective, Multicentre, Post-marketing Surveillance Study

Безопасность и эффективность ипраглифлозина у пациентов из Японии с сахарным диабетом 2-го типа и нарушением функции почек: анализ в подгруппах 3-летнего постмаркетингового наблюдательного исследования (STELLA-LONG TERM)

STELLA-LONG TERM, a 3-year post-marketing surveillance study, evaluated the safety and effectiveness of the sodiumglucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor ipragliflozin in Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. Final results in the safety (n = 6697) and effectiveness populations (n = 5625) were analyzed by stratifying patients by baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, mL/min/1.73 m 2 ) into four subgroups (≥90, 60 to <90, 45 to <60, and <45) and two subgroups (≥60 and <60). Adverse drug reaction (ADR) incidence, and changes from baseline in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA 1c ), bodyweight, and eGFR were assessed. The percentage of patients experiencing ADRs and serious ADRs was similar across most eGFR subgroups. Polyuria/pollakiuria was the most common ADR. Renal disorders and volume depletion ADRs were more frequent in the subgroups with more severe renal impairment at baseline than in those with an eGFR of 60 to <90 or ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . Bodyweight and HbA1c decreased in all subgroups, the latter by − 0.91% to − 0.40% (P <0.05 vs. baseline). eGFR increased in the 45 to <60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 subgroup (+ 1.42 ± 8.77 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ; P = 0.006). It decreased in the ≥90 and 60 to <90 mL/min/1.73 m 2 subgroups (− 8.27 ± 13.73 and − 1.22 ± 10.34 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ; P <0.001), but not to <60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . In conclusion, there were no new or unexpected safety findings in Japanese patients treated with ipragliflozin for T2DM, and long-term sustained improvements in HbA 1c and bodyweight were observed regardless of the presence of renal impairment.

Implementation of the World Health Organization recommendation on the use of rotavirus vaccine without age restriction by African countries

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the worldwide use of rotavirus vaccines initially in 2007 and 2009 applying a strict age restriction criterion due to the potential for age-related association with increased risk of intussusception in infants. The restriction was relaxed in the 2013 after detailed review of robust safety data generated in post-marketing surveillance studies. We assessed the status of the implementation of the 2013 recommendation to remove age restriction in the WHO African region (AFR). Of the approximately 75% (35/47) of countries that had introduced the vaccine by 2018, only 43% (15/35) removed age restriction, exclusively from South and East sub-region (78%, 14/18). Avoiding confusion at the health facilities and financial constraints particularly resources required for re-training the health workers, use of vaccine off-label were cited as the main reasons for not implementing the 2013 WHO recommendation on age restriction removal. The 2013 WHO recommendation has not been fully implemented by African countries, suggesting the need for technical advisory bodies to further guide the countries, continue monitoring the implementation status and impact on the rotavirus vaccine coverage and intussusception in the Africa region.

Safety, Tolerability, and Immunogenicity of Prescribed Usage of Darbepoetin-Alfa (Hetero Biopharma) in Patients of Chronic Kidney Disease With Renal Anemia: A Post-Marketing Surveillance Study.

BackgroundThis post-marketing surveillance (PMS), observational, prospective, safety study evaluated the safety, tolerability, and long-term immunogenicity of prescribed usage of Darbepoetin alfa (DA-α, manufactured by Hetero Biopharma, Hyderabad, India) in Indian patients having chronic kidney disease (CKD) with anemia.MethodsAll patients having chronic kidney disease with anemia and prescribed Hetero-Darbepoetin were the target patient population. The present study gathered the data from 503 Hetero-Darbepoetin alfa prescribed patients. This study collected information of patient demography, patient's medical history, concomitant medications, action taken with respect to Hetero-Darbepoetin-alfa, adverse events details (AE term, start date, stop date, severity, action taken, outcome, and causality), periodic hemoglobin (Hb) levels, and abnormal laboratory tests results until treatment is discontinued or the patient is lost to follow-up. Immunogenicity data were collected in 121 patients at the end of treatment and after one year.ResultsEighty-seven AEs were reported in this study and most of them were mild to moderate in intensity. No deaths or serious adverse events (SAEs) were reported in this study. Anti-drug antibodies were not detected in any subject at the end of the treatment phase and after 12 months long-term follow-up period. The baseline mean hemoglobin value was 8.34 (SD 1.24) g/dL and the last visit mean hemoglobin value was 10.42 ± 1.24 (mean ± SD) g/dL. The mean difference between baseline and last visit in hemoglobin value was 2.10 [2.00, 2.20], statistically significant (p-value <0.0001).ConclusionsThe safety and tolerability of the usage of DA-α are similar to that reported in the published literature of the innovator. No patients showed anti-drug antibodies after treatment. Additionally, the patients also showed significant improvement in hemoglobin levels, compared to baseline.

All-case Japanese post-marketing surveillance of the real-world safety and efficacy of rituximab treatment in patients with refractory nephrotic syndrome

BackgroundRituximab is conditionally approved in Japan for use in patients with refractory nephrotic syndrome. To meet the conditions of approval, an all-case post-marketing surveillance study was conducted to confirm the real-world safety and efficacy of rituximab in patients of all ages with refractory nephrotic syndrome.MethodsAll patients scheduled to receive rituximab treatment for refractory nephrotic syndrome were eligible to register (registration: August 29, 2014 through April 15, 2016); the planned observation period was 2 years from the initiation of rituximab treatment (intravenous infusion, 375 mg/m2 once weekly for four doses). The study was conducted at 227 hospitals throughout Japan. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were collected for safety outcomes. The efficacy outcomes were relapse-free period and the degree of growth in pediatric (< 15 years) patients.ResultsIn total, 997 (447 pediatric) patients were registered; 981 (445) were included in the safety analysis set; 852 (402) completed the 2-year observation period; and 810 (429) were included in the efficacy analysis set. Refractory nephrotic syndrome had developed in childhood for 85.0% of patients, and 54.6% were aged ≥15 years. ADRs were observed in 527 (53.7%) patients, treatment-related infection/infestation in 235 (24.0%) patients, and infusion reactions in 313 (31.9%) patients. The relapse-free period was 580 days (95% confidence interval, 511–664). There was a significant change in height standard deviation score (pediatric patients; mean change, 0.093; standard deviation, 0.637; P = 0.009).ConclusionThe safety and efficacy of rituximab treatment in patients with refractory nephrotic syndrome were confirmed in the real-world setting.Clinical trial registrationUMIN000014997.

Clinical usefulness of cell-free and concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy (CART) in combination with chemotherapy for malignant ascites: a post-marketing surveillance study.

Cell-free and concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy (CART) has been suggested to be able to treat malignant ascites more safely and effectively with chemotherapy because of its ability to retain serum protein and albumin. Although the characteristics of cancer types and CART and the clinical implications of combination therapy with antitumor agents are becoming widespread, there are limited reports on its efficacy and complications. In this prospective observational national post-marketing study, 128 patients with malignancies received 300 CART sessions at 22 centers. After excluding other malignancies, the patients were divided into four groups: gynecological malignancies with chemotherapy (GYC+; 18 cases and 36 times) and without chemotherapy (GYC-; 35 cases and 52 times), and gastrointestinal malignancies with chemotherapy (GIC+; 8 cases and 16 times) and without chemotherapy (20 cases and 58 times). There were significant reductions in the body weight in all groups and significant reductions in abdominal circumference and significant improvements in the diet and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status only in the GYC+ group. The total serum protein and albumin increased significantly in all groups, except for the GIC+ group, before and after CART. There was no significant difference in the presence or absence of antitumor medication. With CART, there were differences in the improvement of the clinical symptoms between malignancy groups. The combination of CART and antineoplastic agents may be as safe as CART alone in cases of exudative malignant ascites.

Real-world evidence for long-term safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in treatment-naïve versus non-naïve Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: subgroup analysis of a 3-year post-marketing surveillance study (STELLA-LONG TERM).

STELLA-LONG TERM was a 3-year post-marketing surveillance study that evaluated the long-term safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This subgroup analysis examined the safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in treatment-naïve and non-naïve patients. Patients were stratified into two subgroups: treatment-naïve (patients who had not received any antidiabetic drugs before starting ipragliflozin monotherapy) and non-naïve (all other patients). Patients who had added or switched antidiabetic drugs during follow-up were excluded from the analysis from that point. The incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and changes from baseline in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and laboratory parameters were assessed. Of the 11,051 patients in the safety analysis set, 1980 patients (17.92%) were treatment-naïve and 9071 (82.08%) were non-naïve. In the safety analysis set, treatment-naïve patients reported significantly lower incidences of ADRs (10.81% vs 20.87%; p < 0.001) and serious ADRs (0.86% vs 2.09%; p < 0.001) compared with non-naïve patients, as well as significantly lower incidences of polyuria/pollakiuria, volume depletion-related events, skin complications and renal disorders. In the effectiveness analysis, sustained and significant reductions from baseline to 36months were observed in HbA1c, FPG and body weight in both treatment-naïve and non-naïve patients (all p < 0.001 vs baseline). Over 3years, ipragliflozin was better tolerated in treatment-naive than in non-naive Japanese patients with T2DM and had similar efficacy in these populations. Therefore, ipragliflozin is a useful first-line treatment option for patients with T2DM. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02479399. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13340-021-00501-w.

Inflammation-targeted therapies and cancer

To review and analyze the current knowledge on the risk of malignancy associated with inflammation-targeted therapies in rheumatic diseases. We performed a non-systematic literature review on PubMEd MEDLINE by screening randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, reviews, and observational studies focusing on malignancies and inflammation-targeted therapies including TNF inhibitors, other biologics and JAK inhibitors in rheumatic diseases. Data from literature are reassuring regarding the overall risk of incident and recurrent cancer with TNF inhibitors. The risk of lymphoma is more difficult to analyze and data are controversial; however, in most of the studies, this risk does not seem to be significanlty increased. By contrast, there is probably an increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer associated with TNF inhibitors, as with other immunosuppressants. There is no signal for an increased risk of malignancies with other biological DMARDs, but additional data are needed. A recent post-marketing surveillance study found out an increased risk of malignancies for tofacitinib compared with TNFi; additional data are, therefore, urgently needed to confirm or not these results. Data are presently reassuring regarding the overall risk of cancer, whatever the inflammation-targeted treatment. However, additional data are needed for non-TNF biologics and JAK-inhibitors.

Safety and effectiveness of replacement with biosimilar growth hormone in adults with growth hormone deficiency: results from an international, post-marketing surveillance study (PATRO Adults)

PurposeTo evaluate safety and effectiveness of biosimilar recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH; Omnitrope®) in adults with growth hormone deficiency (GHD), using data from the PATRO Adults study.MethodsPATRO Adults was a post-marketing surveillance study conducted in hospitals and specialized endocrinology units across Europe. The primary objective was to assess the safety of rhGH in adults treated in routine clinical practice. All adverse events (AEs) were monitored and recorded for the complete duration of Omnitrope® treatment. Effectiveness was evaluated as a secondary objective.ResultsAs of January 2020, 1447 patients (50.9% male) had been enrolled from 82 centers in 9 European countries. Most patients had adult-onset GHD (n = 1179; 81.5%); 721 (49.8%) were rhGH-naïve at study entry. Overall, 1056 patients (73.0%) reported adverse events (AEs; n = 5397 events); the majority were mild-to-moderate in intensity. Treatment-related AEs were reported in 117 patients (8.1%; n = 189 events); the most commonly reported (MedDRA preferred terms) were arthralgia (n = 19), myalgia (n = 16), headache (n = 14), and edema peripheral (n = 10). In total, 495 patients (34.2%) had serious AEs (SAEs; n = 1131 events); these were considered treatment-related in 28 patients (1.9%; n = 35 events). Mean (standard deviation) IGF-I SDS increased from – 2.34 (1.47) at baseline to – 0.23 (1.65) at 12 months, and remained relatively stable thereafter (up to 3 years). Body mass index remained stable between baseline and 3 years.ConclusionData from PATRO Adults indicate biosimilar rhGH (Omnitrope®) is not associated with any unexpected safety signals, and is effective in adults with GHD treated in real-world clinical practice.

Safety and Effectiveness of Ipragliflozin in Elderly Versus Non-elderly Japanese Patients with Type2 Diabetes: Subgroup Analysis of STELLA-LONGTERM.

IntroductionSTELLA-LONG TERM is a post-marketing surveillance study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.MethodsPatients were classified by age at ipragliflozin initiation (< 65 and ≥ 65 years), and elderly patients were subclassified by baseline body mass index (BMI) < 25.0 or ≥ 25.0 kg/m2. Incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and effectiveness were evaluated over 3 years.ResultsAmong 11,051 patients, 7894 (71.4%) were aged < 65 years and 3157 (28.6%) ≥ 65 years. The 3-year ADR incidence was similar in patients aged ≥ 65 (19.04%) and < 65 years (19.36%; P = 0.701). Serious ADRs were more frequent in the subgroup ≥ 65 years (2.79% vs 1.55%; P < 0.001). In terms of ADRs of special interest, a significantly greater proportion of elderly patients had skin complications (2.22% vs 1.62%, P = 0.033), renal disorders (2.28% vs 1.51%, P = 0.005), hypoglycemia (0.73% vs 0.43%, P = 0.048), or malignant tumors (1.01% vs 0.24%, P < 0.001), while the incidence of polyuria/pollakiuria (5.97% vs 4.47%, P = 0.002) and hepatic disorders (1.39% vs 0.73%, P = 0.004) was significantly higher in non-elderly than elderly patients. In patients aged ≥ 65 years, the incidence of ADRs was higher when baseline BMI was ≥ 25 kg/m2 versus < 25 kg/m2 (24.40% vs 17.68%; P < 0.001). Glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting blood glucose, and body weight significantly decreased from baseline in both age groups at each evaluation up to 3 years (all P < 0.001).ConclusionsIpragliflozin was well tolerated and effective for 3 years in routine clinical use in elderly and non-elderly patients, although elderly patients had a higher rate of serious ADRs. No new safety concerns were identified.Clinical Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02479399.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13300-021-01042-w.

Single centre experience with histaglobin as an adjunctive treatment of chronic urticaria: A post marketing surveillance study

Introduction: Chronic urticaria consists of itchy rash on most days for at least six weeks. It is caused by release of histamine and other mediators from degranulated cutaneous mast cells. Antihistamines, the current treatment mainstay, do not provide relief in many cases and necessitates the use of adjunctive treatment. Histaglobin, through the synthesis of histamine-neutralizing antibodies, can serve as an adjunct. The current study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Histaglobin, as adjunctive therapy, in patients with chronic urticaria. Materials and Methods: Patients with chronic urticaria were enrolled in this single-centre, prospective open-label study. Patients were administered 3 injections of Histaglobin (1ml), subcutaneously, at intervals of 7 days. Efficacy was assessed by grading the change in disease activity, measured using urticarial activity score (UAS 7) on days 0, 7, 14, 28 and 42. Adverse events (AEs) and concomitant medications were also recorded at each study visit. Results: Thirty-seven of the 38 enrolled patients completed study by following-up on day 28. Thirtyfour (91.9%) patients showed improvement; 21 (56.8%) showed ‘moderate improvement’ and 13(35.1%) showed ‘clear cut improvement’. There was a significant (p 6.1) to Day 28(6.06.2). There was one patient who developed redness at injection site. Half the patients on antihistamines and all those on steroid treatment were able to reduce/stop these treatments at the end of study. Conclusion: Histaglobin treatment was found to be effective in the treatment of chronic urticaria. It was also well tolerated and reduced antihistamines and steroids pill burden. Histaglobin, is a safe, well-tolerated and valuable adjunct to antihistamines in the management of chronic urticaria.

Safety and effectiveness of edoxaban in Japanese patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation: Final report of a two-year postmarketing surveillance study (ETNA-AF-Japan).

BackgroundDirect oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are the recommended first‐line therapy for ischemic stroke prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). However, the safety and effectiveness of edoxaban for this indication requires monitoring over the long term in real‐world settings.MethodsETNA‐AF‐Japan (trial no. UMIN000017011) was a prospective, multicenter observational study (part of postmarketing surveillance in Japan). NVAF patients due to receive edoxaban to prevent ischemic stroke were enrolled between 13 April 2015 and 30 September 2017.ResultsA total of 11 569 patients were enrolled. For the 11 111 patients (female, 40.6%) whose data comprised the safety analysis set, age, body weight, creatinine clearance (CLcr), and CHADS2 score were 74.2 ± 10.0 years, 60.0 ± 12.7 kg, 63.9 ± 25.8 mL/min, and 2.2 ± 1.3, respectively (mean ± SD). The majority (86.3%) received edoxaban in accordance with package insert information. The mean duration of treatment was 561.9 ± 261.2 days. The annual incidence (95% confidence interval) of all bleeding events and major bleeding events was 5.60% (5.25%–5.98%) and 1.02% (0.88%–1.18%), respectively. The annual incidence of ischemic stroke (excluding transient ischemic attack, TIA) or systemic embolism was 1.08% (0.93%–1.25%). Multivariate analysis showed low body weight, low CLcr, history of gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia, and use of an antiplatelet agent to be associated with major bleeding, and history of ischemic stroke or TIA, vascular disease, and antiplatelet agent use to be associated with ischemic stroke (excluding TIA) or systemic embolism.ConclusionsThese results provide real‐world evidence for the long‐term good safety and effectiveness profile of edoxaban in Japanese NVAF patients under clinical practice.

Safety and effectiveness of everolimus in maintenance kidney transplant patients in the real-world setting: results from a 2-year post-marketing surveillance study in Japan

BackgroundData on real-world use of everolimus (EVR) in Japanese maintenance kidney transplant (KTx) patients are limited. This post-marketing surveillance study was conducted to assess the safety and effectiveness of EVR, and identify factors affecting renal impairment.MethodsAdult maintenance KTx patients were enrolled within 14 days of initiating EVR. Patient medical data were collected using electronic data capture case report forms at 6 months, 1, and 2 years after initiating EVR, or at discontinuation.ResultsAll patients receiving EVR in Japan during the surveillance period were enrolled (N = 263). Mean time from transplantation to EVR initiation was 75.7 months. Decreased renal function (31.56%) was the primary reason for initiating EVR. In combination with EVR, the mean daily dose of tacrolimus and cyclosporine could be reduced to ~ 79 and ~ 64%, by 2 years, respectively. Incidences of serious adverse events and adverse drug reactions were 15.97 and 49.43%, respectively. Two-year graft survival rate was 95.82% and low in patients with baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; modification of diet in renal disease) < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (69.57%; P < 0.0001) and urinary protein/creatinine ratio (UPCR) ≥ 0.55 g/gCr (84.21%; P = 0.0206). Throughout the survey, mean eGFR values were stable (> 55 mL/min/1.73 m2). Renal impairment was influenced by patient and donor age, eGFR, and UPCR at baseline.ConclusionsNo new safety concerns for the use of EVR in adult maintenance KTx patients were identified. Early EVR initiation may be considered in these patients before renal function deterioration occurs.

Safety and effectiveness of linagliptin in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes: A postmarketing surveillance study.

We designed a postmarketing surveillance study of linagliptin for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Korea. This prospective, observational, multicentre study investigated the safety and glycaemic effectiveness of linagliptin as monotherapy or combination therapy with other antidiabetic drugs in routine clinical practice. Endpoints were the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and the change in HbA1c. Overall, 3119 and 2171 patients were included in the safety and effectiveness analysis sets, respectively. A total of 56 patients (1.8%) experienced ADRs. The most common ADR was gastrointestinal disorders (0.7%), followed by metabolism and nutrition disorders (0.5%). ADRs of special interest, including pancreatic diseases, cardiac diseases and hypoglycaemia, occurred in 12 patients, 11 of whom had hypoglycaemia, while one had a skin lesion. Mean HbA1c change during the study period was -0.8%. Lower body mass index, shorter diabetes duration and higher baseline HbA1c were independently associated with a better effectiveness, while the presence of diabetic complications, dyslipidaemia and the use of sulphonylureas were associated with a poor response. In conclusion, linagliptin showed an excellent safety profile and glycaemic effectiveness in Korean patients with T2D.