Depemokimab for Hypereosinophilic Syndrome
(DESTINY Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the effectiveness of depemokimab for individuals with hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES), a condition characterized by the buildup of a type of white blood cell that causes problems. The trial aims to determine if depemokimab can reduce flare-ups (sudden worsening of symptoms) in patients who continue to experience issues despite standard treatment. Participants will receive either depemokimab or a placebo (a non-active substance) while maintaining their usual therapy. Suitable candidates have had HES for some time, are on stable treatment, and have experienced at least two flare-ups in the past year. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants the opportunity to contribute to potentially groundbreaking treatment advancements.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
No, you will not have to stop taking your current medications. The trial allows participants to continue their standard HES therapy while receiving either depemokimab or a placebo.
Is there any evidence suggesting that depemokimab is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that depemokimab is promising for treating severe asthma and chronic sinus issues with nasal polyps. In studies involving individuals with severe asthma, depemokimab reduced flare-ups and was generally well-tolerated.
Some participants reported side effects, but these were neither common nor serious, indicating that most did not experience major problems with depemokimab. The FDA is also reviewing the treatment for other conditions, suggesting it has already passed some safety checks.
Overall, the evidence suggests depemokimab is safe for many people, but as with any treatment, experiences can vary. Always consult a doctor about any concerns.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for hypereosinophilic syndrome?
Depemokimab is unique because it targets the root cause of hypereosinophilic syndrome by specifically blocking interleukin-5 (IL-5), a protein that promotes the growth and activity of eosinophils, which are white blood cells involved in this condition. Current treatments, like corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs, often have broad effects and can lead to significant side effects. Depemokimab's targeted approach aims to reduce these side effects while effectively controlling the disease. Researchers are excited about depemokimab because it offers a more precise strategy, potentially leading to better patient outcomes with fewer downsides.
What evidence suggests that depemokimab might be an effective treatment for hypereosinophilic syndrome?
Research has shown that depemokimab, which participants in this trial may receive, may help treat conditions with high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. In studies on severe asthma with elevated eosinophil levels, depemokimab significantly reduced the number of severe flare-ups. This suggests it can help manage diseases caused by eosinophils, such as hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES). Based on these findings, depemokimab could be effective for people with HES who experience frequent flare-ups despite standard treatments.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
GSK Clinical Trials
Principal Investigator
GlaxoSmithKline
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults with Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES) who are not pregnant or breastfeeding, weigh at least 40 kg, have had a confirmed HES diagnosis and experienced two or more flares in the past year can join. They must be on stable HES therapy for four weeks before the trial and cannot have certain cancers, heart issues, severe allergies to monoclonal antibodies, or other specific health conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either depemokimab or placebo while continuing their standard of care HES therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Depemokimab
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
GlaxoSmithKline
Lead Sponsor
Dame Emma Walmsley
GlaxoSmithKline
Chief Executive Officer since 2017
MA in Classics and Modern Languages from Oxford University
Dr. Hal Barron
GlaxoSmithKline
Chief Medical Officer since 2018
MD from Harvard Medical School