Omaveloxolone for Friedreich's Ataxia
(BOLD Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how the drug omaveloxolone works in children and teens with Friedreich's Ataxia (FA), a condition affecting movement and coordination. Researchers aim to understand how the body processes the drug and monitor changes in health, including heart health and development through puberty. Participants take the drug in different age-based groups, and researchers observe its effects over time. Children and teens ages 2 to 15 with confirmed FA, who do not have uncontrolled diabetes or severe heart issues, might be suitable for this study. As a Phase 1 trial, this research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this new treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants do not take certain medications that affect liver enzymes, like some antibiotics and antifungals, within 7 days before starting the study and during participation. If you're on these medications, you may need to stop them, but the protocol doesn't specify about other medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this treatment is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that omaveloxolone, also known as SKYCLARYS®, is generally well-tolerated by people with Friedreich's Ataxia (FA). In a study involving 165 patients, including some teenagers, researchers closely monitored the safety of a 150 mg daily dose. The results showed that this treatment is usually safe, with most participants experiencing only mild side effects like headaches or stomach discomfort, common with many medications.
Omaveloxolone is already approved for individuals 16 years and older with FA, indicating it has passed significant safety tests for this age group. Researchers are now examining its effects in younger children and teens aged 2 to 15 years to ensure safety for them as well.
Overall, current evidence supports the safety of omaveloxolone for treating Friedreich's Ataxia, with careful monitoring.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for Friedreich's Ataxia?
Researchers are excited about omaveloxolone for Friedreich's Ataxia because it offers a unique approach compared to current treatments. While existing options mainly focus on symptom management, omaveloxolone targets the root of the disease by activating the Nrf2 pathway. This pathway may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially slowing disease progression. Additionally, omaveloxolone's oral administration makes it a convenient option compared to more invasive treatments. This novel mechanism and ease of use are why there's a buzz around this new treatment.
What is the effectiveness track record for omaveloxolone in treating Friedreich's Ataxia?
Studies have shown that omaveloxolone effectively treats Friedreich's ataxia, a rare genetic disease affecting the nervous system and movement. Research from the MOXIe study demonstrated that patients taking omaveloxolone improved their symptoms by 55% more, as measured by mFARS scores, compared to those on a placebo. This indicates greater improvement with omaveloxolone than without it. Omaveloxolone is currently the only FDA-approved treatment for Friedreich's ataxia, underscoring its effectiveness and safety for individuals aged 16 and older. The trial aims to explore its effects in younger patients, with different cohorts receiving varying doses based on age and Bayesian population pharmacokinetics analyses.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Medical Director
Principal Investigator
Biogen
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 2 to less than 16 with genetically confirmed Friedreich's Ataxia (FA). Participants must be able to follow the study plan, use birth control if of childbearing potential, and not have certain infections or recent participation in other trials. They should also have a heart function above a set threshold.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Part 1 Treatment
Participants receive a single dose of BIIB141 based on age group
Part 2 Treatment
Participants continue to take BIIB141 daily at home with periodic visits for monitoring
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Omaveloxolone
Omaveloxolone is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Friedreich's ataxia
- Friedreich's ataxia
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Lead Sponsor
Biogen
Lead Sponsor
Daniel Quirk
Biogen
Chief Medical Officer
MD
Christopher A. Viehbacher
Biogen
Chief Executive Officer since 2022
Graduated from Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Reata, a wholly owned subsidiary of Biogen
Lead Sponsor