Efgartigimod for Post-COVID-19 POTS
(POTS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a treatment called efgartigimod (an immunotherapy) for individuals with post-COVID-19 POTS, a condition causing dizziness or faintness upon standing. The goal is to determine if efgartigimod is safe and effective for treating these symptoms. Participants will receive the treatment through an IV over 48 weeks. Ideal candidates have already participated in a specific earlier study and are prepared to continue without a break. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the study team or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that efgartigimod is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that efgartigimod is generally safe for people. In earlier studies, participants tolerated it well, experiencing only mild to moderate side effects. These side effects often include headaches and nausea, common with many medications. Importantly, no reports have indicated serious problems directly caused by efgartigimod.
The FDA has approved efgartigimod for other conditions, indicating a well-understood safety profile. Many people have used it without major issues. While this trial focuses on post-COVID-19 POTS, the existing safety data for efgartigimod is reassuring. However, discussing any concerns with the trial staff or a doctor is always advisable.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for POTS?
Unlike the standard treatments for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) that often include lifestyle changes, beta-blockers, or fludrocortisone, efgartigimod offers a fresh approach. This drug is unique because it works by modulating the immune system, specifically targeting and reducing autoantibodies that may contribute to POTS symptoms, which is different from the current symptom-focused therapies. Researchers are excited about efgartigimod because it has the potential to address the underlying causes of POTS, offering hope for more effective and long-lasting relief for patients.
What evidence suggests that efgartigimod might be an effective treatment for post-COVID-19 POTS?
Studies have shown that efgartigimod lowers levels of IgG, an antibody type involved in autoimmune responses. This suggests it might help with conditions like post-COVID-19 POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), where the immune system could play a role. However, in a previous study, patients with post-COVID-19 POTS treated with efgartigimod did not experience significant improvement. While efgartigimod is effective for other conditions, it has not been proven to work specifically for post-COVID-19 POTS. Participants in this trial will receive efgartigimod to further evaluate its potential effectiveness for post-COVID-19 POTS.24567
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults who have had COVID-19 and now suffer from Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), causing rapid heartbeat when standing. Participants must have finished a previous efgartigimod study, not be planning pregnancy or breastfeeding, agree to use contraception, and sign consent forms.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive efgartigimod IV 10 mg/kg infusions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Open-label extension
Long-term evaluation of safety and efficacy of efgartigimod in PC-POTS patients
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Efgartigimod
Efgartigimod is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
- Generalized Myasthenia Gravis (gMG)
- Generalized Myasthenia Gravis (gMG)
- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)
- Generalized Myasthenia Gravis (gMG)
- Generalized Myasthenia Gravis (gMG)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
argenx
Lead Sponsor
Tim Van Hauwermeiren
argenx
Chief Executive Officer since 2008
B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Bioengineering from Ghent University, Executive MBA from The Vlerick School of Management
Dr. Peter Ulrichts
argenx
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD from Maastricht University, PhD in Molecular Immunology from Maastricht University
Iqvia Pty Ltd
Industry Sponsor
Ari Bousbib
Iqvia Pty Ltd
Chief Executive Officer since 2016
MBA from Columbia University, Master of Science in Mathematics and Mechanical Engineering from Ecole Superieure des Travaux Publics, Paris
Jeffrey Spaeder
Iqvia Pty Ltd
Chief Medical Officer
MD