Lutikizumab for Eczema
(EMBARK Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine the effectiveness and safety of lutikizumab for treating moderate to severe eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis, a skin condition causing itchy rashes). Participants will receive regular injections of either lutikizumab or a placebo for a period, followed by lutikizumab for the remainder of the trial. The trial may require more frequent doctor visits and tests than usual eczema treatments. It is suitable for individuals with eczema symptoms persisting for over a year who have not improved with common topical treatments or have medical reasons to avoid them. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
Yes, you may need to stop taking certain medications before joining the trial. There are specific 'washout' periods (time without taking certain medications) for various treatments, such as systemic therapies, biologics, and topical treatments, ranging from 7 days to 16 weeks, depending on the medication.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that lutikizumab has been tested in earlier studies for conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa, a skin disorder. In those studies, lutikizumab was generally well-tolerated. Patients who received doses similar to those planned for the eczema trial experienced better skin conditions and reported fewer side effects. Most side effects were mild, such as headaches or irritation at the injection site. However, some participants experienced more serious reactions, though these were less common.
Since this trial is in Phase 2, lutikizumab has already undergone initial safety testing in humans. This phase focuses on further evaluating the treatment's safety and effectiveness for eczema. If lutikizumab is approved for another condition, it suggests the treatment might be safe, but each condition can respond differently.
Participants should consider these findings and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider before joining the trial.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for eczema?
Researchers are excited about lutikizumab for eczema because it works differently from most current treatments, which typically involve topical corticosteroids or immunosuppressants. Lutikizumab is unique because it targets specific inflammatory proteins called interleukins, which play a key role in eczema flare-ups. This targeted approach could potentially reduce inflammation more effectively and with fewer side effects compared to broader-acting treatments. Additionally, lutikizumab's dosing schedule, with different doses over a period of time, offers a structured progression that might optimize its effectiveness and patient outcomes over the long term.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for eczema?
Research has shown that lutikizumab might help with skin conditions like eczema by reducing inflammation. In a study involving individuals with hidradenitis suppurativa, a condition similar to eczema, lutikizumab significantly reduced symptoms. This finding suggests it could also benefit those with moderate to severe eczema. In this trial, participants will receive either lutikizumab monotherapy or a placebo followed by lutikizumab. The primary aim of such studies is often to reduce skin problems by at least 75%, indicating the treatment's effectiveness. While more research is needed specifically for eczema, these results offer promise for those seeking new treatments.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
ABBVIE INC.
Principal Investigator
AbbVie
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD) that started at least a year ago. Participants should have tried and not responded well to standard AD treatments like topical steroids or systemic therapies, or cannot use them due to side effects.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment Period 1
Participants receive subcutaneous injections of lutikizumab or placebo every other week
Treatment Period 2
Participants receive subcutaneous injections of lutikizumab every other week
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Lutikizumab
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
AbbVie
Lead Sponsor
Dr. Roopal Thakkar
AbbVie
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD from Wayne State University School of Medicine
Robert A. Michael
AbbVie
Chief Executive Officer
Bachelor's degree in Finance from the University of Illinois